These Greek turkey meatballs are a family favorite, packed with flavor and only 200 calories per serving. They’re deliciously aromatic as they roast in the oven, giving your kitchen that comforting, inviting smell that says “home.” The accompanying tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing twist that makes these meatballs perfect for any occasion.
Nothing feels quite as delightful as putting a meal like this on the table, it reminds me of bustling family dinners where laughter and good food come together. My kids often ask for these meatballs, and their friends can’t get enough. They even rave about the tzatziki, which has become a staple in our house, and it’s almost as if there’s a competition for who can dip the most!
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Cozy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Deliciously aromatic Greek turkey meatballs served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, mint, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
- Mix until everything is well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm with tzatziki on the side for dipping.
Notes
These meatballs freeze well and can be reheated in a preheated oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs with tzatziki
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These meatballs are not just incredibly satisfying, but they’re also quick to prepare. With a blend of turkey, fresh herbs, and spices, you’ll discover a comforting depth of flavor that is surprisingly light and healthy. Plus, the tzatziki brings everything together with its creamy texture and zesty notes. From a busy weeknight dinner to a cozy weekend gathering, this dish will impress everyone around your table.
Let’s Cook It Together
Creating these Greek turkey meatballs is easy and incredibly rewarding. The process allows you to engage in a little culinary therapy as you chop, mix, and form those delightful bites. And before you know it, the oven is filled with the magical aroma of spices and herbs. Here’s how to bring it to life!
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, mint, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
- Mix until everything is well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm with tzatziki on the side for dipping.
Nutrition Values
- Serving size: 4 meatballs with tzatziki
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, this recipe keeps you feeling satisfied without dragging you down.
Best Ways to Serve It
Plating these meatballs is an art in itself! I love to arrange them on a large platter, drizzling some tzatziki over the top for a beautiful presentation. Serve them alongside a light salad of crisp greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the flavors. For drinks, a refreshing sparkling water or homemade lemonade makes for a perfect pairing. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual catch-up with friends, you can’t go wrong with this dish on the table.
Keeping It Fresh
To store these Greek turkey meatballs, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to save some for later, they freeze beautifully! Just ensure they’re in a well-sealed bag or container, and they should keep for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout, or microwave them for a quick meal.
Chef Betty’s Secrets
- Moisture Matters: Ground turkey can dry out easily, so don’t skip the egg and breadcrumbs; they help keep the meatballs juicy.
- Fresh Herbs for Flavor: Opt for fresh parsley and mint to elevate the flavor profile of the meatballs. Dried herbs won’t offer the same vibrant taste!
- Bakery-Safe Option: If you prefer a crispy texture, try broiling the meatballs in the final few minutes of cooking; just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Customize the Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if your family loves a bit of spice in their meals.
- Use a Scoop: For perfectly shaped meatballs, use an ice cream scoop to portion them out before rolling them with your hands.
Creative Twists to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not change things up? Here are a couple of fun variations to explore:
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese into the meatball mixture for a burst of rich flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a tablespoon of harissa or your favorite spice blend to the meatball mixture to give them a warm, peppery kick.
- Flavorful Additions: For a cheesy twist, try mixing in some shredded mozzarella or feta directly into the meatballs for a gooey surprise.
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! These meatballs freeze really well. Simply allow them to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months!
What’s the best substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, finely crushed oats or even almond flour work great as alternatives. They’ll help bind the meatball mixture just as effectively!
How long will this stay fresh?
In the fridge, these meatballs will stay fresh for up to four days. If you freeze them, they can last for about three months, making them perfect for meal prep.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Most definitely! Doubling the ingredients is a great idea for meal-prepping. Just remember to space out your meatballs on the baking sheet, as they’ll need some room to cook properly.
Now that you have everything you need to whip up these delightful Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki, gather your family and enjoy a meal filled with togetherness and warmth. Happy cooking!