Name: Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey (93/7 lean); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 large red onion, grated or finely chopped; 1 egg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/2 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cucumber, peeled and grated; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Rice, cooked (for serving); Tomato Cucumber Feta Salad (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving something vibrant, wholesome, and bursting with Mediterranean flair, you absolutely must dive into this Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe. These meatballs are tender, juicy, and infused with fragrant herbs, perfectly complemented by a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that brings just the right tang and freshness. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe feels both comforting and celebratory, bringing the best of Greek flavors straight to your table with simple ingredients and fuss-free steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with layers of ingredients starting with a base of pale pink ground meat. On top of the meat, there is a layer of finely chopped green herbs on the right side, a pile of white granulated salt, and small pieces of light purple chopped onions scattered around. To the left, there is a large heap of light brown breadcrumbs with some green herbs sprinkled over them. In the bottom right section of the bowl, a bright yellow raw egg yolk is resting on the meat next to a light wooden spoon. The bowl is sitting on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of green herbs nearby and a striped cloth partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these ingredients is a joy because each one plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your meatballs and tzatziki. Fresh herbs and lean turkey keep things light, while garlic and onion add layers of savory depth.

1lb ground turkey (93/7 lean): The lean protein base that ensures tender yet healthy meatballs.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent burst of flavor that elevates the savory profile.
1/4 large red onion: Grated or finely chopped for subtle sweetness and moisture.
1 egg: Acts as the perfect binder to keep meatballs intact without drying out.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour: Helps with texture and holds moisture inside the meatballs.
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill: Brings a signature bright and slightly tangy Greek herb aroma.
1/2 tbsp dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean seasoning that ties the flavors together.
1 tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors in the meatballs.
1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
2 tbsp olive oil: For perfectly searing the meatballs to golden perfection.
Tzatziki Recipe (cut in half): The creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce that makes this recipe truly sing.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by placing your ground turkey into a large bowl. Add in the minced garlic and grate the quarter of a red onion right into the bowl — this helps the onion blend seamlessly throughout the meatballs and adds juicy moisture. If you prefer, finely chop the onion to keep a bit more texture. Crack the egg on top to help bind the ingredients together.

Step 2: Season and Combine

Next, add breadcrumbs or almond flour for structure, then toss in the fresh chopped dill and dried oregano to bring those unmistakable Greek notes. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper for seasoning. Now, get your hands in there and mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined — you want to avoid overmixing so the meatballs stay tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Divide the mixture into roughly 14 equal portions, shaping each into a round, compact meatball. The size makes sure they cook evenly and remain juicy all the way through.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add your meatballs in a single layer — depending on your pan size, you might need to do this in batches. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, turning frequently. This ensures they develop a beautiful golden crust on all sides. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; once they reach 165°F internally, they’re perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Make the Tzatziki

While the meatballs finish cooking, prepare your tzatziki sauce by mixing Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. It’s refreshingly creamy and complements the savory meatballs immaculately.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with five brown meatballs that have a slightly crispy texture, with one meatball sliced in half to show its soft, crumbly inside. Over the meatballs, there is a white creamy sauce with green herb bits sprinkled on top. Surrounding the meatballs is a fresh salad made of bright red cherry tomato halves, white cheese cubes, and green cucumber pieces, all mixed with green herbs. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a blue and white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serve these meatballs with a sprinkle of fresh dill and a few lemon wedges on the side. A scattering of chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of smoked paprika will also lighten and brighten the presentation immensely.

Side Dishes

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe shine alongside fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a vibrant tomato cucumber feta salad. The salad’s juicy veggies and crumbly feta provide a fresh and tangy contrast to the rich meatballs and cool sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Transform your meatballs into a Mediterranean-inspired bowl by layering them over herbed couscous, roasted vegetables, and drizzling extra tzatziki. For a fun twist, stuff them into pita pockets with crunchy greens for handheld delights perfect for lunch or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki separate to maintain its fresh creaminess and prevent it from getting watery.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the best texture. Always serve with freshly made tzatziki or chilled from the fridge to keep the flavors lively.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and yields a similarly light and tender meatball. Keep an eye on cooking times, though, as it may cook slightly faster than turkey.

Is almond flour a good substitute for breadcrumbs?

Yes, almond flour is a fantastic low-carb alternative and adds a subtle nutty flavor. Just make sure you use fine almond flour for the best texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts like almond flour to keep the meatballs perfectly moist and safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Definitely! Baking at 400°F on a foil-lined tray for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, is a hands-off, healthy option that still produces juicy meatballs.

What’s the best way to keep tzatziki from getting watery?

Be sure to strain the grated cucumber thoroughly to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the yogurt. Using Greek yogurt over regular yogurt also helps maintain a thicker consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe is a brilliant way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that feels both fresh and hearty. The combination of aromatic herbs, juicy turkey, and cooling tzatziki is truly irresistible. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s guaranteed to become one of your new favorites, perfect for quick dinners or impressing friends with a touch of Mediterranean magic.