Name: Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean, 7% fat); 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 chopped fresh dill; 1/2 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cooked rice, as desired

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you’re looking for a vibrant, healthy dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe is pure magic. Juicy turkey meatballs seasoned with fresh herbs, garlic, and red onion come together beautifully, simmered to perfection and paired with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that adds a refreshing contrast. It’s comfort food elevated with that unmistakable Greek flair, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish when hosting friends. The balance of textures and flavors in this recipe will quickly make it one of your favorites in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with a mix of raw light pink ground meat forming the base layer, topped with a bright yellow raw egg yolk on the right side near the edge. Near the top, there is a pile of finely chopped green herbs, likely dill. Scattered around the bowl are small pieces of red onion, black pepper, and white salt. On the left side of the bowl, there is a mound of light brown breadcrumbs with green herbs sprinkled on top. A wooden spoon with a light color is placed partially in the bowl near the egg yolk. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of herbs below. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe is straightforward but essential. Together, they create a melody of flavors and textures that make each bite so satisfying. From the lean turkey providing a tender base, to the fresh dill infusing a bright herbal note, every item plays a vital role.

1 lb ground turkey (93/7 lean): A lean protein choice that stays juicy when cooked properly and forms the perfect meatball base.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent depth and warmth that brings savory richness to the meatballs.
1/4 large red onion: Grated or finely chopped, it keeps the meatballs moist while lending a subtle sweetness and color.
1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together without making them dense.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour: Provides texture and helps absorb juices, giving the meatballs a nice bite.
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill: The star herb for that authentic Greek flavor, bright and slightly tangy.
1/2 tablespoon dried oregano: Adds a woody, herbal aroma that complements the dill perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the mixture.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice to keep things interesting.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the meatballs to a golden brown while infusing them with a fruity richness.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by adding the ground turkey and minced garlic to a large mixing bowl. The garlic’s aroma will immediately uplift the turkey’s mild flavor. Then, grate or finely chop the red onion and incorporate it into the mix to maintain moisture and subtle sweetness.

Step 2: Add Binding and Seasoning

Crack in the egg to bind the mixture, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs or almond flour, fresh dill, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly—using your hands is the best way to evenly distribute the ingredients without overworking the meat.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into about 14 equal-sized meatballs. Keeping them uniform in size ensures even cooking, which is key to perfect meatballs every time.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, place your meatballs in the pan and cook, turning regularly so they develop a gorgeous golden crust on all sides. Cooking should take about 7-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring they’re safely cooked but still juicy.

Step 5: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs cook, whip up your tzatziki by combining yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill (not listed earlier but a classic addition here). This cool sauce adds freshness and creaminess that perfectly complements the warm, spiced meatballs.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm pita bread. The combination will transport your taste buds straight to a sunny Greek taverna.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

A white bowl holds six brown, round meatballs with a slightly crispy texture, three whole and three sliced open showing a soft, light inside, all sitting on a bed of white rice. A thick layer of white yogurt sauce with green herbs is spread over the top center meatballs, sprinkled with fresh green parsley. To the right of the meatballs, there is a salad of bright red cherry tomato halves, green cucumber chunks, and white cube cheese mixed with green herbs. Around the bowl, on a white marbled surface, there are small white bowls holding thinly sliced red onions and extra green herbs, a white plate with thin lemon slices, and a white dish with halved cherry tomatoes. A white and blue striped cloth is partially visible on the left side of the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like extra dill or finely chopped parsley brighten the presentation and add an herbal kick. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese also elevates the dish with a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the meatballs and tzatziki.

Side Dishes

Serve these meatballs with lemony roasted potatoes, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, or even simple steamed vegetables for a balanced and colorful meal. The lightness of the sides balances the richness of the meatballs.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, turn this Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe into a pita wrap for a hand-held delight. Layer the meatballs, tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil in warm pita pockets. It’s perfect for lunch or a casual gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover meatballs and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the textures fresh—the meatballs remain tender, and the tzatziki stays creamy.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, and then transferring to freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Tzatziki can be frozen too but may separate; it’s best fresh if possible.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet or oven to preserve their moisture and crisp exterior. The tzatziki sauce is best served cold or at room temperature, so add it after reheating or prepare a fresh batch.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute, though turkey offers a slightly richer flavor and firmer texture that complements the Greek spices beautifully.

Is it necessary to use fresh dill?

Fresh dill really makes a difference in flavor, bringing a bright and herbaceous note that dried herbs can’t fully replicate. However, in a pinch, dried dill can be used but use about a third of the amount to avoid overpowering the meatballs.

How do I make the best tzatziki for this recipe?

For creamy tzatziki, strain your Greek yogurt beforehand to remove excess moisture. Add finely grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil for that authentic flavor that pairs perfectly with these meatballs.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a great alternative for a hands-off approach. Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked and golden, turning halfway through to brown evenly.

What can I serve instead of rice?

Try couscous, quinoa, or warm pita bread for a gluten-free or varied option. A fresh Greek salad also makes a wonderful accompaniment that keeps the meal light and refreshing.

Final Thoughts

I truly encourage you to give this Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that feels both comforting and vibrant, showcasing the wonderful flavors of Greek cuisine in a simple, approachable way. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these meatballs with their creamy tzatziki dip are bound to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!