Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

I’ve been whipping up Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki for years, and each time they grace my dinner table, they steal the spotlight. There’s something undeniably cozy and comforting about these savory bites paired with that refreshing, creamy sauce. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or entertaining friends, this dish always makes a delightful impression. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a win in both taste and health.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why this recipe deserves a slot on your weekly meal plan. For starters, it’s quick to prepare and budget-friendly, using everyday ingredients that many of us already have on hand. These Greek turkey meatballs are not only a healthier twist on the traditional version but also kid-approved. The bright flavors of herb-infused meatballs paired with the tangy tzatziki create a dish that’s loved by everyone, from toddlers to adults.

And if you’re looking for versatility, this dish shines there too. Serve it with pita bread, a fresh salad, or even as an appetizer for your next gathering. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

"I made these for my family, and they couldn’t get enough! Even my picky eater went back for seconds. The tzatziki is a game changer!" – Sarah H.

Preparing Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

This dish is incredibly simple to make. You’ll mix the ingredients for the meatballs, shape them, and let the oven do the magic while you whip up the tzatziki. In little time, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready to devour. Here’s how it all breaks down:

1. Mix up the turkey and spices in a bowl.
2. Shape into meatballs and bake until golden.
3. Simultaneously, prepare the refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Now that you have a sneak peek, let’s gather our ingredients!

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What You’ll Need

To make these delicious Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground turkey: A healthy protein option!
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: For binding and texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and flavor.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens up the meatballs.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A flavorful punch.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For that classic Greek taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings.
• 1 cup plain yogurt: The creamy base of tzatziki.
• 1 cucumber, grated: Freshness and crunch.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: For tang.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A drizzle of healthy fat.

Feel free to substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef, and use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a thicker tzatziki!

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your mouth-watering Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden color.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once the meatballs are ready, serve them warm alongside the tzatziki sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have your flavorful meatballs and refreshing tzatziki, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Here are some ideas:

• Pita Bread: Serve the meatballs with warm pita for a delightful wrap.
• Salad: A simple Greek salad enhances the Mediterranean experience.
• Grains: Pair with quinoa or couscous for a hearty meal.
• Skewers: For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on skewers for finger food at gatherings.

Feel free to get creative with plating! A sprinkle of extra parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation.

Best Way to Store Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Leftovers can be a lifesaver, and these meatballs store surprisingly well:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatballs without sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool them completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option. Just be cautious not to overcook them again.

Pro Chef Tips

Want to elevate your cooking game? Here are some expert tips for the best results:

• Chill the Mixture: If your meatball mixture feels too loose, chill it for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley truly makes a difference in flavor compared to dried.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the mixture before forming the meatballs, adjusting salt and pepper as necessary.

Creative Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:

• Spice It Up: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with dill or mint for a different flavor profile.
• Stuff Inside: Try stuffing the meatballs with a cube of feta cheese for a melty surprise.
• Different Sauces: Instead of tzatziki, serve with marinara or a yogurt-based curry sauce for a unique twist.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, including mixing, baking, and making the tzatziki.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and brings a similar taste to the dish.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are no longer pink in the center.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meatballs ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving.

Now that you have a complete guide, it’s time to get into the kitchen and enjoy these delightful Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki! Happy cooking!

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Carb

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Description

Savory Greek turkey meatballs paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden color.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Once the meatballs are ready, serve them warm alongside the tzatziki sauce.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: turkey meatballs, tzatziki, Greek cuisine, healthy dinner, weeknight meal