Looking for a dinner that’s fresh, healthy, and makes everyone at the table happy? These Savory Greek Turkey Meatballs Paired with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce are exactly that, and then some.
I still remember the first time I made them. It was a Thursday, grocery day had slipped my mind, the fridge was almost empty, and my youngest had declared (loudly) that she was never eating broccoli again. I had ground turkey, a lemon, and half a cucumber. That’s it. So I leaned on memory, Grandma’s herb tricks, my love for Greek flavors, and whipped up these herby, juicy meatballs with a cool tzatziki to match.
Dinner that night? A win. My husband asked for seconds, the kids dipped everything in tzatziki like it was ketchup, and I knew this recipe was going on repeat.
They’re quick, cozy, and perfect for lean protein dinner recipes or Mediterranean meals when you want something flavorful and fresh, without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Savory Greek Turkey Meatballs Paired with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce is the kind of dinner that saves the day, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together.
- Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Just mix, roll, and bake. No deep frying or fancy tools needed.
- Family-Friendly: My kids love it, and I love that they’re eating real, wholesome food.
- Spring-Ready & Balanced: Light enough for warmer weather, packed with protein and fresh herbs.
- Instagram-Pretty: That golden crust paired with green-flecked tzatziki? Pin-worthy.
Want more like this? Try my Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps for another globally-inspired dinner idea.
Ingredients for Flavor-Packed Greek Turkey Meatballs
This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients that make these healthy dinner ground turkey meatballs so flavorful.
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground turkey – lean, perfect for lighter meals
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs – helps bind and keep moist
- 1 egg – acts as a glue
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – bold, aromatic flavor
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced – adds zing
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley – for color and freshness
- 1 tsp dried oregano – that signature Greek touch
- 1/2 tsp salt & black pepper – season to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon – brightness in every bite
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – full-fat for creaminess
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry – adds texture
- 1 clove garlic, minced – kick of flavor
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – bright and fresh
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill – signature herb
- Salt to taste – to balance it all
You can also serve these meatballs with a side of Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or a big Greek salad for a complete meal.
How to Make Savory Greek Turkey Meatballs Paired with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce
This recipe comes together in just 5 easy steps. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Prep the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, herbs, lemon zest, and seasonings. Gently mix until just combined, don’t overwork it.
- Roll & Bake: Use a cookie scoop to roll even-sized balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Make the Tzatziki: While the meatballs bake, stir together Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt. Chill for 15–30 minutes for best flavor.
- Assemble the Plate: Spoon tzatziki into a shallow bowl or serve it on the side. Arrange meatballs on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
- Serve Warm: I love serving this with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta when feeding a crowd, it balances beautifully.
Perfect Ways to Serve This Greek Dinner
This dish is wonderfully flexible and looks gorgeous however you plate it:
- Pita Wraps: Stuff warm pitas with meatballs, lettuce, tomatoes, and a big drizzle of tzatziki.
- Mediterranean Bowl: Layer rice or quinoa with meatballs, roasted veggies, and sauce.
- Mezze Platter Style: Add olives, feta, hummus, and serve like tapas, ideal for spring get-togethers or meals for 8 people.
- Side Ideas: Try with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole to round out your table.
Easy Variations & Customization Ideas
Make this recipe your own with these easy swaps and tweaks:
- Switch the Protein: Use ground chicken or lamb for a new twist
- Make it Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour
- Dairy-Free Tzatziki: Use coconut yogurt and skip the feta if you add any
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the meat mix
- Mini Party Version: Make smaller meatballs for appetizer skewers
Storage & Reheating Tips
Leftovers? You’re covered.
- Fridge: Store meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days
- Freeze: Freeze meatballs up to 2 months (tzatziki doesn’t freeze well)
- Reheat: Warm meatballs in the oven at 350°F with a splash of broth to keep moist
Pro Tips for Tender Turkey Meatballs
Getting these dinner recipes meatballs just right is easier than you think.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to avoid tough meatballs
- Scoop for Size: Use a cookie scoop for even cooking
- Broil for Browning: Want a crispier edge? Broil for the last 2 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple easy balanced dinners like this can go sideways. Avoid these:
- Dry Meatballs: Too little fat or overbaking can make them dry, watch your time
- Skipping the Chill: Letting tzatziki chill deepens the flavor
- Underseasoning: Taste your mix before forming (just cook a small bit to test!)
The Final Bite
This recipe for Savory Greek Turkey Meatballs Paired with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce brings fresh Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s healthy, beautiful, and downright delicious. If you’re craving different healthy dinner ideas or need a turkey meat idea for spring, pin this one now. From my home to yours, happy cooking!
Savory Greek Turkey Meatballs Paired with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce
This healthy, vibrant dish features baked turkey meatballs seasoned with bold Greek herbs and a cool, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for weeknights, spring dinners, or Mediterranean gatherings. A lean protein dinner recipe everyone will love.
For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:
For the Creamy Tzatziki Sauce:
Instructions
Prep the oven and pan
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix the meatball ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, red onion, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined, don’t overwork it!
Shape the meatballs
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake until golden
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned. Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
Make the tzatziki while meatballs bake
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), garlic, lemon juice, dill, and salt. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve and enjoy
- Plate the meatballs warm with a generous scoop of creamy tzatziki. Garnish with fresh dill or extra lemon zest if you like!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 310kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 85mg29%
- Sodium 460mg20%
- Potassium 530mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Don’t skip squeezing the cucumber: It’s key to keeping your tzatziki from going watery.
- Want crispier meatballs? Broil them for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: If you have access to fresh dill and parsley, go for it.
- Double the batch: These freeze great! Make extra for meal prep or meals for 8 people.
- Serve it your way: Wrap it in pita, layer over a grain bowl, or serve mezze-style for fun dinner ideas for spring.
