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Hey there! If you’re craving something healthy yet delicious, I’ve got just the recipe for you—Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki! I absolutely love this dish because it’s not only packed with flavor but also has that vibrant Mediterranean twist that brings a little sunshine to the table. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Nutritional Benefits of Greek Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are a fantastic source of protein thanks to turkey, which is leaner than traditional ground beef. Turkey has lots of protein but fewer calories and less fat, making it a great option if you’re watching your diet. Additionally, herbs like parsley and oregano add not just flavor but antioxidants too. And when paired with tzatziki sauce, made from yogurt and cucumbers, you’re bringing in probiotics and hydration. So, these meatballs don’t just taste great—they’re good for you!
Adaptable Variations to Make It Yours
- Swap the Meat: You can easily replace turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based alternative if you want them vegan.
- Change the Herbs: Don’t have dill for the tzatziki? No worries! Fresh mint or even some cilantro can make a delicious substitute.
- Gluten-Free Option: Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oat flour to keep these meatballs gluten-free.
- Add Some Spice: If you like a little kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mix or mix some Sriracha into the tzatziki for a spicy twist!
Easy Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients for the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients for the Tzatziki
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, shredded and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or mint)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions to Make Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Instructions to Make Tzatziki
- In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until the meatballs are done, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Valuable Tips for Success!
- If you want juicy meatballs, don’t overmix the turkey mixture. Just combine until everything is moistened.
- For the tzatziki, squeezing out the cucumber’s excess water is key to avoiding watery sauce!
- Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice, in pita bread, or simply alongside a Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later use!
- Feel free to double the tzatziki recipe—it’s great on sandwiches, salads, or as a veggie dip!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of the tools you’ll want to make this recipe smoothly:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray for easy cleanup
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Knife and cutting board for chopping
- Grater or food processor for the cucumber
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for a day or pop them in the freezer for future meals.
- How many meatballs does this recipe make? You should end up with about 20 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.
- What can I serve with these meatballs? They go great with rice, pita bread, or a simple side of veggies or salad!
- Can I bake them instead of frying? Yes! This recipe actually bakes them, which keeps them healthier and saves on calories.
- What if I don’t have fresh herbs? You can use dried herbs, but use less—about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equals 1 tablespoon of fresh.
Let’s Connect!
There you have it! Delicious and healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs with a creamy tzatziki sauce, perfect for sharing (or not!). I’d love to hear how yours turned out, so feel free to leave a comment. And if you’re loving this recipe, share it on Pinterest for your friends to enjoy too! Happy cooking!