Welcome to a culinary journey where vibrant Mediterranean flavors meet wholesome nutrition. These **Greek Turkey Meatballs** are a testament to how healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying. Each tender, juicy meatball is infused with a harmonious blend of fresh herbs like parsley and mint, alongside aromatic spices that transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Greece. But the magic doesn’t stop there – they’re perfectly paired with an unbelievably creamy and tangy feta sauce, making every bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking a light yet hearty dinner, a fantastic meal prep solution, or simply a burst of fresh flavor, this recipe for Greek Turkey Meatballs is poised to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Author’s Note
Why These Greek Turkey Meatballs Are a Constant in My Kitchen!
As a passionate cook and recipe developer, few dishes capture my heart (and my weeknight dinner rotation) quite like a perfectly crafted meatball. My kitchen has seen countless variations, from classic Italian to spicy Asian-inspired versions. But there’s another love of mine that runs deep: the vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying cuisine of Greece. It often left me wondering how I could possibly have gone so long without combining these two culinary passions.
The answer came in these incredible Greek Turkey Meatballs. They truly represent the best of both worlds – the satisfying texture and comforting appeal of homemade meatballs, infused with the bright, herbaceous, and savory flavors that define Greek food. The result is a dish that’s not just delicious, but also wonderfully wholesome and surprisingly easy to prepare. These healthy turkey meatballs are packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, making them a guilt-free pleasure.
What truly elevates this recipe is the luscious, creamy feta sauce. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the seasoned turkey, adding a tangy richness that’s absolutely irresistible. And for those of us juggling busy schedules, these Greek Turkey Meatballs are a dream come true for meal prep. They reheat beautifully, and I’ve found that the feta sauce develops even deeper, more integrated flavors as it sits. This dish has quickly earned its spot as a regular feature in my home, and I’m confident it will become a beloved staple in yours too. Get ready to savor every delicious, healthy bite!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Greek Turkey Meatballs
Crafting these delectable Greek Turkey Meatballs requires a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the robust flavor profile and achieving the ideal texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
| Ingredient | Notes & Swaps for Best Results |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey (93/7) | Opt for 93% lean / 7% fat ground turkey for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. Extra-lean turkey (99%) can result in dry meatballs. Ground chicken is a great alternative if you prefer. |
| Large Egg | Acts as a vital binder, holding the meatball mixture together. For an egg-free option, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) works effectively. |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are key to creating a wonderfully light and airy texture. For a gluten-free or grain-free version, almond flour is an excellent substitute. |
| Red Onion | Grated red onion disperses its sweet, pungent flavor evenly throughout the meatballs, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Yellow onion or shallots can be used if red onion isn’t available. |
| Fresh Parsley & Mint | These fresh herbs are non-negotiable for authentic Greek flavor. They contribute bright, aromatic notes. If fresh mint is hard to find, fresh dill makes a fantastic alternative. |
| Greek Yogurt (for sauce) | Full-fat, whole milk Greek yogurt is essential for a rich, creamy, and tangy sauce. Its thickness provides the perfect base. Sour cream can be used in a pinch for similar creaminess. |
| Feta Cheese (for sauce) | For the ultimate flavor and texture, use a block of feta cheese and crumble it yourself. Pre-crumbled feta can sometimes be drier and less flavorful. |
| Fresh Lemon | Both the zest and juice of a fresh lemon are crucial. They provide a bright, zesty counterpoint to the savory meatballs and rich sauce, enhancing all the Greek flavors. |
| Olive Oil | Used in the meatball mixture to keep them moist and in the feta sauce for a smooth emulsion and classic Mediterranean richness. |
| Garlic Powder & Onion Powder | These pantry staples add a concentrated layer of savory flavor to the meatballs. |
| Dried Oregano | A cornerstone of Greek cuisine, dried oregano imbues the meatballs with its distinctive earthy and slightly peppery notes. |
| Beef Bouillon Powder | A secret ingredient for a deeper, more umami flavor in the turkey meatballs. It enhances the savory profile without overpowering the Greek herbs. |
| Salt & Pepper | Essential seasonings to bring out and balance all the other flavors. Adjust to your personal preference. |
How To Make Flavorful Greek Turkey Meatballs from Scratch
Making these delicious Greek Turkey Meatballs is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table:
- Prepare Your Workspace and Meatball Mixture: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a large-rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Next, finely grate the red onion using the large holes of a cheese grater until you have about 1/2 cup; this ensures even distribution of flavor. Transfer the grated onion to a large mixing bowl, then add the ground turkey, egg, olive oil, panko breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, beef bouillon powder, salt, pepper, and the freshly chopped parsley and mint. Gently knead the ingredients together with your hands until they are just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix the meat, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
- Form and Bake the Meatballs: Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray to prevent the mixture from sticking. Scoop out a heaped tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it into a uniform, evenly sized ball. Continue this process until you’ve formed approximately 25-30 meatballs. Arrange the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking and browning. Give them another generous spray of cooking spray over the top for a perfectly golden and crispy exterior. Bake for 18 minutes.
- Flip and Finish Baking: After the initial baking time, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Using tongs or a spatula, gently flip each meatball to ensure all sides cook evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are beautifully golden brown on the outside and thoroughly cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Craft the Creamy Feta Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare your luscious feta sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the plain Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, the zest and juice from one large lemon (approximately 1 tsp zest and 1 tbsp juice), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Blend until the sauce is wonderfully smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. If you find the sauce too thick for your preference, add water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Savor: Arrange the hot, freshly baked Greek Turkey Meatballs on plates and generously drizzle with the creamy feta yogurt sauce. For an authentic Greek experience, follow our serving suggestions below. These meatballs are best enjoyed immediately, allowing you to appreciate their warmth and fresh flavors.
What To Serve With Greek Turkey Meatballs: Complete Your Mediterranean Meal
These Greek Turkey Meatballs are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides, creating a complete and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: While our feta sauce is exceptional, if you prefer a classic cucumber-garlic yogurt dip, homemade Tzatziki Sauce is a fantastic alternative. Its refreshing coolness perfectly complements the savory meatballs.
- Fresh Greek Salad: A vibrant Greek Salad, featuring crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and more feta, dressed with a simple vinaigrette, provides a refreshing crunch and a burst of fresh flavors that balance the richness of the meatballs.
- Light & Hearty Grains: Serve your meatballs over a base of fluffy white rice, light and fluffy couscous, or protein-rich quinoa for a wholesome and satisfying meal. These grains absorb the delicious sauce beautifully.
- Warm Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita bread is essential for scooping up the meatballs and any extra creamy feta sauce. You can even lightly char it for an added smoky flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish adds an extra layer of brightness and zest, elevating all the flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving with roasted asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for an additional healthy and delicious side.
Storage & Meal Prep Made Easy
Optimize Your Week with Meal Prep Greek Turkey Meatballs
These Greek Turkey Meatballs are ideal for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy and delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. Proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor:
- Preparing Meatballs for Storage: Once your meatballs are baked and completely cooled, transfer them to airtight containers. They can be safely refrigerated for up to four days.
- Storing the Feta Sauce: Prepare the feta sauce as directed and store it separately in its own airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents the sauce from becoming absorbed by the meatballs or losing its fresh consistency.
- Reheating Instructions: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the meatballs in the microwave until warmed through, or in an oven at a moderate temperature until heated to your liking. Add the freshly chilled feta sauce after reheating to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
- Meal Prep Containers: For ultimate convenience, divide your cooked rice or couscous and meatballs into individual meal prep containers at the beginning of the week. Keep the feta sauce in smaller, separate containers or add it fresh before serving. This makes grabbing a nutritious lunch or dinner effortless.
Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of having these Greek Turkey Meatballs on hand for quick, healthy meals!
Explore More Amazing Greek-Inspired Recipes:
If you’ve fallen in love with the fresh flavors of these Greek Turkey Meatballs, you’ll surely enjoy these other Mediterranean-inspired dishes:
Dinner
Flavorful Greek Chicken Wrap
Dinner
Greek Ground Turkey (Excellent for Meal Prep!)
Dinner
Quick & Easy Chicken Gyros Recipe
Salads
Simple Greek Tortellini Salad
Print Recipe
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Greek Turkey Meatballs
Chelsea Lords
15 minutes
23 minutes
38 minutes
4 servings
Recipe Video
Watch a quick video on how to make these delicious Greek Turkey Meatballs!
Click here to watch the recipe video
Equipment
- Large sheet pan (15″ x 21″)
- Food processor or blender
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 pound lean ground turkey 93/7
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated red onion (from 1 small onion)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (measure after mincing)
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat, whole-milk recommended for best creaminess)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large lemon (for zest and juice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Serving suggestions (see note 1 for delicious ideas like Greek salad, rice, pita, and lemon wedges)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large-rimmed sheet pan with cooking spray. Peel and grate the red onion using the large holes of a cheese grater until you have 1/2 cup. Add the grated onion to a large bowl, then add the ground turkey, egg, olive oil, panko breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, beef bouillon powder, salt, pepper, and the finely chopped fresh parsley and mint. Gently knead the mixture until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- With greased hands (using cooking spray), scoop a heaped tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it into an evenly-sized ball. Repeat this process to make about 25–30 meatballs. Place the meatballs (spaced out) on the prepared sheet pan and spray generously with cooking spray. Bake for 18 minutes.
- Carefully flip the meatballs and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For the Feta Sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine all sauce ingredients: Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water (1 tsp at a time) to reach your preferred consistency.
- To serve: Spread a big spoonful of the creamy Greek yogurt feta sauce on your plate; sprinkle lightly with a pinch of salt. Add a layer of cooked rice or couscous, then top generously with the warm Greek Turkey Meatballs. Accompany with fresh lemon wedges, charred or warmed pita bread, and a refreshing Greek salad on the side. Finish by drizzling extra feta sauce over the meatballs and prepare to enjoy a truly delicious and healthy meal!
Recipe Notes
- To char pitas: For a delicious smoky flavor, spray both sides of the pita bread lightly with cooking spray (or brush with olive oil). Place them directly over a medium to medium-low gas flame on your stovetop for just a few seconds. Use tongs to flip until the pitas are lightly charred and warm. Alternatively, you can warm them in a dry skillet or toaster.
Storage: Store any leftover meatballs in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is recommended to store the creamy feta sauce in a separate airtight container to maintain its freshness and consistency.
Meal Prep Tips: For convenient and nutritious meals throughout the week, divide your cooked rice or couscous and the prepared Greek Turkey Meatballs into individual meal prep containers. Use small separate containers for the feta sauce and any side Greek salad components to keep everything fresh until you’re ready to eat.
Nutrition
Calories: 364kcal |
Carbohydrates: 12g |
Protein: 30g |
Fat: 22g |
Saturated Fat: 6g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g |
Trans Fat: 0.1g |
Cholesterol: 148mg |
Sodium: 386mg |
Potassium: 449mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 3g |
Vitamin A: 1171IU |
Vitamin C: 31mg |
Calcium: 192mg |
Iron: 3mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. It may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
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