Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki – Juicy, Fresh & Perfect for Meal Prep

Introduction

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are everything you want in a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal: juicy, herby meatballs made with lean ground turkey and paired with a refreshing, garlicky tzatziki sauce. They’re light yet satisfying, packed with protein, and bursting with vibrant flavor from fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic.

Whether served in pita wraps, over rice bowls, or alongside roasted vegetables, these turkey meatballs are a versatile, family-friendly option that stores beautifully for meal prep. The homemade tzatziki ties everything together with its cool, creamy tang.

Ingredients Overview

Each component of this dish adds flavor and balance. Let’s break it down:

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:

• Ground Turkey: Lean and high in protein. Use 93% lean for the best balance of moisture and flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds bold Mediterranean flavor.
• Red Onion or Shallot: Finely grated or minced for a mellow onion bite.
• Fresh Parsley and Dill: Essential for that herbaceous Greek profile.
• Lemon Zest: Adds brightness and zing.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them tender.
• Egg: Acts as a binder.
• Salt, Pepper, and Oregano: Classic Greek seasoning.
• Optional Feta: Crumbled into the meat mixture for richness and salty pops of flavor.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and protein-packed.
• Cucumber: Grated and squeezed dry for texture and freshness.
• Garlic: Use 1–2 cloves depending on preference.
• Lemon Juice: For tang and balance.
• Fresh Dill: A signature herb in tzatziki.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and smoothness.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.

Optional Bowl Additions:

• Brown rice or quinoa
• Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion
• Kalamata olives or roasted chickpeas
• Warm pita or naan

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Tzatziki First

This gives the flavors time to meld.

In a bowl, combine:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated cucumber (squeezed dry)
• 1–2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well. Cover and refrigerate while making the meatballs.

2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, mix:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup grated red onion or shallot
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix just until combined — don’t overwork or the meatballs can become dense.

3. Form the Meatballs

Use a scoop or your hands to form 1.5-inch meatballs (about 16–18 total). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Cook the Meatballs

You can bake, pan-sear, or air fry:

• Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 16–18 minutes or until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
• Pan-Sear: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches, turning to brown all sides, 8–10 minutes total.
• Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Serve with Tzatziki and Sides

Plate your meatballs with a generous dollop of tzatziki and your favorite sides — rice, salad, or pita.

6. Garnish and Enjoy

Top with more fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt and skip the feta.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store cooked meatballs and tzatziki separately. Reheat meatballs and spoon tzatziki over when serving.
• Add Greens: Finely chopped spinach or kale can be folded into the meat mixture for extra nutrients.
• Boost the Sauce: Add a splash of red wine vinegar or extra lemon juice to tzatziki for extra tang.

Flavor Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the meatballs.
• Tahini Drizzle: Swap tzatziki for lemon tahini sauce if desired.
• Grain-Free Version: Omit breadcrumbs and add a bit of grated zucchini instead.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

These meatballs are extremely versatile and suit many meals:

• Bowls – with grains, greens, roasted veggies, and tzatziki
• Wraps – tucked into warm pita with lettuce, tomato, and sauce
• Appetizers – serve with toothpicks and tzatziki for dipping
• Family dinners – satisfying and kid-friendly
• Picnics or meal prep – they store and travel well

Pair with:

• Lemon rice or herbed couscous
• Greek village salad (cucumber, tomato, onion, olives, feta)
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or peppers

Nutritional & Health Notes

Greek turkey meatballs are lean, high-protein, and nutrient-dense — especially when served with Greek yogurt-based sauce and fresh vegetables.

Typical per serving (4 meatballs + 2 tbsp tzatziki):

• Calories: ~300
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbs: ~8–10g
• Fat: ~15g (lower if you skip feta)

Health Highlights:

• Ground turkey is a lean protein source
• Greek yogurt provides probiotics and protein
• Herbs and lemon offer antioxidants and freshness
• Olive oil supports heart health

This dish fits clean eating, Mediterranean diet, and high-protein lifestyles.

FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes! Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and store for up to 3 months.

Q2: Can I make this with ground chicken or beef?
Definitely. Ground chicken works well and keeps the flavor mild. Ground beef makes it richer and more savory.

Q3: How long does tzatziki last?
Store tzatziki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q4: Can I cook the meatballs in the air fryer?
Yes — 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with oil for better browning.

Q5: What if my meatballs are too wet to roll?
Chill the mixture for 15 minutes or add a touch more breadcrumbs to help it firm up.

Q6: Can I make this recipe egg-free?
Yes — use 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water as a binder.

Q7: Are these meatballs good for kids?
Yes! They’re soft, mild, and flavorful. You can shape them into mini bites for toddlers.

Print