Name: Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat); 1/2 cucumber, grated (excess moisture squeezed out); 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil

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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki have a way of transporting you to a sun-soaked terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea, where the aroma of herbs dances in the warm breeze. Picture this: juicy turkey meatballs infused with zesty herbs and spices, enveloped in a creamy, garlicky tzatziki that’s as refreshing as a dip in the ocean. savory turkey panini recipe Your taste buds will rejoice as each bite delivers a burst of flavors, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds—if not thirds!

I remember the first time I whipped up these delightful meatballs for a family gathering. My relatives were convinced I’d taken a culinary vacation in Greece and brought back a secret recipe. Little did they know, I was just following my instincts and having fun! These meatballs quickly became the star of our summer barbecues and cozy weeknight dinners alike. Trust me; you’ll want to make them for every occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Greek turkey meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The flavor profile is vibrant with fresh herbs and spices that will transport you straight to Greece
Visually stunning, these meatballs create an appealing centerpiece on any plate
Perfectly versatile, they can be served as appetizers or main dishes with various sides

I made these Greek turkey meatballs at my cousin’s wedding, and everyone raved about them! Seeing family members go back for seconds made my heart swell with pride.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier base while still keeping it juicy and flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs and add texture.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds bright freshness; don’t skimp on this herb for maximum flavor.
Dried Oregano: This quintessential Greek herb will infuse your meatballs with aromatic depth.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic creates an irresistible aroma that elevates the entire dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delicious flavors in your meatballs.
Greek Yogurt: The star of the tzatziki sauce; opt for full-fat for creaminess or low-fat if you’re watching calories.
Cucumber: Grate cucumber for tzatziki; it adds crunch while balancing out the richness of yogurt.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up both the tzatziki and the meatballs, giving them that zingy kick! refreshing lemon basil hummus.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor and helps keep those turkey meatballs moist while cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on your countertop so you won’t be running around like a headless chicken later. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you’re at it—this ensures those meatballs get nice and golden! For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken marsala recipe.

Mixing Magic: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands! It’s messy but oh-so-satisfying. Mix until fully combined but don’t overwork it; we want tender meatballs here.

Forming Meatballs: Using your hands or an ice cream scoop (because why not?), shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized rounds—aim for about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet that’s been lightly greased with olive oil.

Bake Those Meatballs: Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know they’re ready when they’re beautifully browned and smell divine!

Create Your Tzatziki: While your meatballs are baking away, let’s whip up some tzatziki sauce! In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture), lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. creamy zucchini noodle dish Stir until well combined—voilà! You’ve got yourself some creamy goodness.

Serve It Up: Once those glorious Greek turkey meatballs are ready, serve them hot alongside your tzatziki sauce. Garnish with extra parsley if you’re feeling fancy—it makes everything look more gourmet!

Now that you know how to make these incredible Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki from scratch, prepare yourself for compliments at dinner parties or casual family meals! Everyone will want seconds (and thirds), so keep that serving spoon handy! unique apple cinnamon hummus.

You Must Know

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are not just a meal; they’re an experience
The zesty flavors and juicy texture make every bite a journey to the Mediterranean
Ideal for meal prep, they’re easy to whip up and perfect for satisfying cravings without the guilt

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve mouthwatering Greek Turkey Meatballs, start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly, then form meatballs and sear them in a hot skillet. Once golden brown, finish cooking them in the oven for even juiciness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your meatballs by swapping turkey for ground chicken or adding feta cheese for extra flavor. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs like dill for a personal twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect Greek Turkey Meatballs, use lean turkey to avoid dryness while keeping moisture with breadcrumbs and yogurt
Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing; it leads to steaming instead of browning
Lastly, allow them to rest before serving to enhance flavors

The first time I made Greek Turkey Meatballs, my friends devoured them within minutes! Their laughter and compliments filled my kitchen, reminding me how food brings people together—one meatball at a time.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I freeze Greek Turkey Meatballs?

Yes! You can freeze uncooked meatballs for up to three months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag for easy cooking later.

What can I serve with Tzatziki?

Tzatziki pairs wonderfully with pita bread, cucumber slices, or even as a topping on salads. Its refreshing taste complements various dishes while adding that authentic Greek flair you crave. For more inspiration, check out this cucumber salad recipe recipe.

How long do Greek Turkey Meatballs take to cook?

Cooking Greek Turkey Meatballs usually takes about 25 minutes in total: 10 minutes for searing on the stove and 15 minutes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until fully cooked through.