If you enjoy easy, flavor-packed meals, this one checks every box. These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a simple homemade meal that feels special without fuss. Great for busy families, meal prep, or a relaxed weekend dinner, this easy recipe brings bright herbs, warm spices, and a cool, tangy sauce together.
If you like Mediterranean-inspired bowls, try this spin after making the meatballs with a serving of Greek chicken bowls for more weeknight inspiration.
Table of Contents
Why This One’s a Keeper
These meatballs hit the sweet spot between comforting and fresh. You get lean protein from turkey, zippy lemon and oregano for classic Greek flavor, and creamy tzatziki that cools everything down. They’re forgiving to make, easy to scale up for guests, and satisfying whether served as an appetizer, wrapped in pita, or plated as a full weeknight dish. Emotionally, it’s the kind of food that feels homemade and thoughtful, quick enough for busy nights and pretty enough for casual entertaining.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F if baking, or heat a skillet over medium with 1 tablespoon olive oil for pan-frying.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko, egg, grated onion, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overworking.
- Portion mixture into 1.5-inch balls using a spoon or scoop. Aim for 18 to 20 meatballs.
- To bake: place on a lightly oiled baking sheet, brush tops with olive oil, and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. To pan-fry: cook in batches for 8 to 10 minutes, turning to brown all sides and reach safe temperature.
- Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water using a towel or paper towel.
- Stir together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill or mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning.
- Chill tzatziki for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve alongside warm meatballs.
Notes
what you’ll need to make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean works well)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs)
- 1 large egg (helps bind)
- 1/4 cup finely grated onion (adds moisture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, brightens flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (adds warmth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying or brushing for baking
- For tzatziki: 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt, pepper, and a few sprigs chopped dill or mint
- Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, extra lemon wedges, warm pita
Equipment
- Bowl for mixing
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Grater or microplane for lemon and cucumber
- Spoon or cookie scoop for portioning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Meatballs:
- Preheat oven to 400°F if baking, or heat a skillet over medium with 1 tablespoon olive oil for pan-frying.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko, egg, grated onion, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overworking.
- Portion mixture into 1.5-inch balls using a spoon or scoop. Aim for 18 to 20 meatballs.
- To bake: place on a lightly oiled baking sheet, brush tops with olive oil, and bake 15 to 18 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. To pan-fry: cook in batches 8 to 10 minutes, turning so all sides brown and reach safe temp.
Tzatziki:
- Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water using a towel or paper towel.
- Stir together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill or mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning.
- Chill tzatziki at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve alongside warm meatballs.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Don’t overmix the meat: gentle folding keeps meatballs tender.
- If mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs; if dry, add a splash of water or another egg white.
- Use a small cookie scoop for uniform meatballs and even cooking.
- Test one meatball first to check seasoning before cooking the whole batch.
- If baked meatballs are pale, broil 1 to 2 minutes at the end for browning, watch closely.
- For crispier outsides, finish baked meatballs in a hot skillet with a little oil for 1-2 minutes per side.
- Make tzatziki ahead: it often tastes better after an hour as flavors develop.
Serving Suggestions
Best ways to serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki include piling them into warm pita with tomatoes and red onion, over a bed of lemony rice, or atop a crisp salad. For a cozy platter, add roasted potatoes and olives. For more Greek weeknight ideas, pair with a sheet-pan chicken recipe like this Greek sheet pan chicken.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate cooled Greek Turkey Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven or microwave; thawed frozen meatballs can be warmed in a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition Notes
Using lean turkey makes these meatballs a lower-fat protein choice while still providing B vitamins and selenium. Greek yogurt tzatziki adds protein and probiotics. Fresh herbs and lemon boost flavor without extra calories, making this a balanced, nutrient-forward simple homemade meal.
Food Safety
Cook turkey meatballs to an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep raw turkey separate from other foods, wash hands and surfaces thoroughly, and refrigerate leftovers within two hours. When reheating, ensure meatballs reach 165°F again.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes. Ground chicken works well and has a similar texture. Watch cooking time since fat content can vary. Test one meatball first for seasoning and doneness and adjust as needed.
How long does tzatziki keep in the fridge?
Tzatziki lasts 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. Freshness depends on the yogurt and cucumber. Stir before serving; if it separates, simple stirring restores texture.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or use almond flour. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty. Adjust binder amounts if using a drier flour like almond meal.
How can I make meatballs ahead for a party?
Cook meatballs fully, chill, then reheat before serving. For coolers or buffets, keep them warm in a slow cooker on low with a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent drying.
What are good side dishes with these meatballs?
Serve with pita, Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple grain bowl. Light sides keep the meal balanced and let the tzatziki shine.
Conclusion
With simple steps and great taste, this is one you’ll want to make again. If you’d like a variation or a healthier take, check out a similar inspiration like Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki – Erin Lives Whole for more ideas. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a weeknight dish that feels both simple and special.