Name: Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
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 pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cucumber, peeled and finely grated; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re hunting for a dish that’s bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors yet surprisingly light and wholesome, then you have to try this recipe for Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki. Juicy turkey meatballs seasoned with fragrant dill, garlic, and oregano are perfectly paired with a cool, creamy homemade tzatziki that adds an irresistible freshness. This combination brings together the best of Greek cuisine in a healthy and approachable way that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering.

Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in crafting those perfectly balanced meatballs and the luscious tzatziki sauce. From the lean turkey for protein-packed goodness to the fresh herbs that brighten every bite, these simple essentials work together to deliver incredible taste and texture.

1lb ground turkey (93/7 lean): This lean meat keeps the meatballs tender without extra fat.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds classic pungent flavor that warms the whole dish.
1/4 large red onion: Grated finely for subtle sweetness and moisture.
1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold your meatballs perfectly together.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour: Helps with texture and keeps meatballs from drying out.
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill: Boosts that unmistakable Greek flavor and fresh aroma.
1/2 tbsp dried oregano: Earthy and aromatic, a staple herb in Greek cooking.
1 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1/2 tsp pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
2 tbsp olive oil: For cooking, brings rich, fruity notes and helps brown the meatballs nicely.
Tzatziki ingredients: (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill) for the cooling sauce that complements the meatballs perfectly. Use half the usual quantities for a moderate amount.

How to Make Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by placing your ground turkey and minced garlic into a large bowl—this is where your flavor foundation begins. Grate the quarter red onion directly into the bowl to add moisture and a gentle sweetness, or finely chop it if you prefer a bit more texture. Next, toss in the egg, breadcrumbs or almond flour, chopped dill, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined—overworking the meat can make the meatballs dense, so keep it light and loving.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, shape it gently into about 14 equal-sized meatballs. Aim for meatballs that are about the size of a golf ball—this way, they cook evenly and remain juicy on the inside. Don’t worry about making them perfect; hand-formed meatballs have all the more charm.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the meatballs in the pan without overcrowding, and cook them for about 7 to 8 minutes. Keep turning them frequently so they brown beautifully on all sides and cook through without burning. The meatballs are perfectly done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While your meatballs are cooking, it’s time to whip up the tzatziki. Combine Greek yogurt with finely grated cucumber, minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. This tangy, refreshing sauce is the perfect cool companion to your warm, herbaceous meatballs.

How to Serve Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki

Garnishes

To really elevate this dish, sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley or extra dill over the meatballs before serving. A few lemon wedges on the side add a burst of brightness that helps balance the rich flavors and adds that authentic Greek touch.

Side Dishes

This meal shines served alongside fluffy rice, a crisp tomato cucumber feta salad, or even warm pita bread. These sides absorb the delicious juices and tzatziki, making every bite satisfying and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your dinner guests? Serve your Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki on skewers for a fun appetizer twist, or make a Mediterranean-inspired bowl with quinoa, chopped veggies, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a colorful, nutrient-packed meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki separate to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.

Freezing

These turkey meatballs freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in a skillet over low heat or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain their juicy texture. Serve with freshly stirred tzatziki for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be mindful of the fat content so the meatballs stay moist.

Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can swap regular breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). They should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! Tzatziki actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What’s the best way to keep meatballs from falling apart?

The key is mixing the ingredients gently but completely, using a binder like egg and breadcrumbs, and cooking at the right temperature to keep them intact without drying out.

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki have quickly become one of my all-time favorite dishes to prepare and share. They’re straightforward, nutritious, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors that feel both comforting and fresh. I really hope you give them a try and enjoy each delicious bite as much as I do!

Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki Recipe

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★★★★★

5.1 from 11 reviews

These Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional meatballs, made with lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and simple seasonings. Served with a cool, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce and a refreshing tomato cucumber feta salad, this meal is perfect for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dinner that’s both satisfying and light.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 14 meatballs 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: Greek
Diet: Low Fat

Instructions

Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey and minced garlic. Grate or finely chop the red onion and add it to the mixture. Add the egg, breadcrumbs or almond flour, chopped dill, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands until just combined to avoid dense meatballs.
Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 14 evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they are compact but not too tightly packed.
Cook Meatballs: Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs carefully. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, turning frequently to brown all sides evenly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Make Tzatziki Sauce: While meatballs cook, prepare the tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess water), minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well. Chill until ready to serve.
Prepare Tomato Cucumber Feta Salad: In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.
Serve: Plate the meatballs alongside the tomato cucumber feta salad, and spoon generous amounts of tzatziki sauce over or on the side. Serve with rice or your preferred grain for a complete meal.

Notes

Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Make sure the meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
If you prefer, bake the meatballs at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Let the tzatziki sit for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Serve with rice, quinoa, or pita bread for a fuller meal.