Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional meatballs, packed with Mediterranean-inspired herbs and spices. Juicy turkey meatballs are seasoned with garlic, oregano, and lemon zest, then baked to perfection for a lighter yet satisfying dish. Served alongside a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce made with cucumber, yogurt, and dill, this recipe is a refreshing and wholesome meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Pair the meatballs with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete experience. With their vibrant flavors and easy preparation, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey (or chicken for a lighter option)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ medium cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Serving Suggestions:
- Warm pita bread
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Make the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
- Form the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs (about 16-20 meatballs) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil.
3. Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
4. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill until ready to serve.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the baked turkey meatballs on a platter or individual plates. Serve with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve with warm pita bread and lemon wedges for an authentic touch.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Greek
