Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

When it comes to comfort food that feels like a warm hug, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki do just that! Imagine juicy, savory turkey meatballs infused with aromatic herbs, nestled alongside a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. They are perfect for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings. What’s great is that these meatballs are not only simple to whip up, but they’re also a crowd-pleaser that can easily outshine any store-bought option. In fact, I remember the first time I made this dish for my extended family – the plate was wiped clean in minutes! If you loved my Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers recipe, you’re definitely going to want to give these meatballs a try!

What is Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki?

So, what exactly are Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki? Well, the title might sound fancy, but it’s really just a delightful mix of ground turkey seasoned with Mediterranean spices, shaped into bite-sized balls, and served with a refreshing yogurt-based sauce. Makes you wonder, did the Greeks invent meatballs? What’s next, meatball Olympics? I think we can all agree that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these meatballs could probably win gold! Ready to dive into a dish that brings people together? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki shine as a main dish that tantalizes the taste buds and fills the belly. Not only are they a flavorful alternative to standard spaghetti and meatballs, but making them at home also saves you some cash! Who doesn’t love savoring a heavenly meal without the hefty restaurant bill? The tender meatballs paired with the creamy, zesty tzatziki will have you dreaming about your next bite. Picture them atop a fluffy bed of couscous or nestled in a warm pita. It’s a refreshing touch that elevates the taste in ways that cold leftovers could never understand! Are you ready to impress your family and friends?

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Quick Overview

Making Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is not just simple, but it’s also about crafting flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully. The cooking process merely takes 30 minutes – perfect for busy evenings. The meatballs are crispy on the outside but tender and succulent on the inside, while the tzatziki offers a cool contrast that brightens the entire dish.

Key Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat for added flavor)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
• For the Tzatziki:
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix the ingredients with your hands or a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix to keep them tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and gently roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Tzatziki: While the meatballs are baking, prepare your tzatziki. In a small bowl, combine yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt. Stir until well mixed and set aside in the fridge to chill.
6. Serve: Once the meatballs are done baking, serve them warm alongside a bowl of tzatziki for dipping. Enjoy with pita bread or over a bed of couscous.

Top Tips for Perfecting Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

1. Substitutions: You can replace ground turkey with ground chicken or beef, but make sure they’re halal-certified. Alternatively, for a veggie version, try lentils or chickpeas!
2. Don’t Overmix: When making the meatballs, mix just enough to combine the ingredients for the best texture.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like parsley and dill make a huge difference in flavor, so consider using fresh rather than dried when possible.
4. Timing is Key: Check your meatballs for doneness around 18 minutes to avoid overcooking; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Flavor Boost: A dash of paprika or cumin can add a warm depth to your meatballs if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they are so delicious!), store your Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes for the best taste and texture. The tzatziki should be consumed fresh for the perfect creamy taste but can last in the fridge for up to 5 days.

With diverse flavors and easy preparation, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are sure to become a staple in your home. Grab your ingredients and join me in delighting your family and friends! Enjoy the myriad of flavors this dish brings, and happy cooking!

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Juicy turkey meatballs infused with Mediterranean spices, served with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground turkey Preferably lean ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Preferably whole wheat for added flavor
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg beaten

For the Tzatziki

• 1 cup plain yogurt Preferably Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber finely grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt, to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix to keep them tender.
3. With your hands, scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and gently roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Cooking

1. Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
2. While the meatballs are baking, prepare your tzatziki. In a small bowl, combine yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt. Stir until well mixed and set aside in the fridge to chill.

Serving

1. Once the meatballs are done baking, serve them warm alongside a bowl of tzatziki for dipping. Enjoy with pita bread or over a bed of couscous.

Notes

For substitutions, try ground chicken or beef for meatballs. Use fresh herbs for better flavor and check for doneness at around 18 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.