Greek Turkey Meatballs: A Healthy, Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Feast
If you're looking for a healthy, protein-packed meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors, these Greek Turkey Meatballs are a must-try! Juicy, tender, and infused with herbs, lemon, and feta, they’re perfect for meal prep, salads, wraps, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔️ Step-by-step instructions for perfectly tender meatballs
✔️ Secret tips to keep them moist & flavorful
✔️ Serving ideas (pitas, bowls, salads)
✔️ Meal prep & storage tips
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Lighter than beef – Lean turkey keeps it healthy.
✅ Bursting with Greek flavors – Feta, lemon, oregano, and garlic.
✅ Meal prep friendly – Stays fresh for days.
✅ Versatile – Serve with pitas, salads, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes ~20 meatballs)
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground turkey (93% lean for best texture)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1 egg (binds the mixture)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For Serving (Optional):
Tzatziki sauce
Pita bread or rice
Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion)
Lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground turkey
Feta, breadcrumbs, egg
Garlic, onion, parsley, dill, oregano, paprika
Lemon zest, lemon juice, salt & pepper
Mix gently (overmixing makes meatballs tough).
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Scoop ~1.5 tbsp mixture and roll into 1.5-inch balls.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Cook (Choose Your Method)
Oven-Baked (Easiest, Hands-Off)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Stovetop (Crispier Exterior)
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook meatballs in batches for 3-4 minutes per side.
Air Fryer (Quick & Crispy)
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 mins, shaking halfway.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Drizzle with tzatziki and serve with:
Warm pita & Greek salad
Over lemon rice
As an appetizer with toothpicks
Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs
🔥 Don’t overmix – Gentle mixing keeps them tender.
🔥 Use a cookie scoop – For evenly sized meatballs.
🔥 Add moisture – The feta & lemon juice prevent dryness.
🔥 Rest before cooking – Chill 15 mins for firmer texture.
5 Delicious Serving Ideas
1. Greek Meatball Pita Wrap 🌯
Stuff into warm pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
2. Bowl Meal 🥗
Serve over quinoa, spinach, olives, and hummus.
3. Appetizer Platter 🍢
Skewer with cherry tomatoes & cucumber.
4. Spaghetti Alternative 🍝
Swap beef for these in a Mediterranean-inspired pasta.
5. Meal Prep Lunchbox 🍱
Pair with roasted veggies & couscous.
Storage & Reheating Tips
❄️ Fridge: Keeps for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
⏳ Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for 2-3 months.
🔥 Reheat: Warm in oven (350°F for 10 mins) or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works well too.
How do I prevent dry meatballs?
Don’t overcook (internal temp 165°F).
Use 93% lean turkey (not 99%).
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
These Greek Turkey Meatballs are a healthy, flavorful twist on classic meatballs—perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. The combo of feta, lemon, and herbs makes them irresistible!
Will you bake, pan-fry, or air fry yours? Let me know in the comments! 👇
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