There’s something comforting about Mediterranean food. It’s colorful, wholesome, and bursting with fresh flavors that make you feel both satisfied and energized. If you love dishes like this Mediterranean Chicken Bowl, you’re going to adore these Greek turkey meatballs. When you bite into them, you get that perfect balance—juicy, protein-packed turkey blended with garlic, herbs, lemon zest, and just the right spices. They’re light yet hearty, making them a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
If you’ve been searching for a meal that’s easy, healthy, and flavorful, Greek turkey meatballs are about to become a favorite in your kitchen.
What Are Greek Turkey Meatballs?
Greek turkey meatballs are a Mediterranean-inspired twist on classic meatballs. Instead of beef or pork, you use lean ground turkey, which gives them a lighter texture and fewer calories without sacrificing flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and oregano bring brightness, while garlic and lemon zest add that signature Greek kick.
Unlike heavy Italian-style meatballs simmered in sauce, these are baked or pan-seared for a golden crust and then paired with sides like tzatziki, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad. They’re versatile enough to enjoy as an appetizer, wrap filling, or the star of a protein-packed bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe
When you make this dish, you’re not just cooking another weeknight dinner—you’re creating a recipe that feels like Mediterranean comfort food.
Balanced Flavor and Nutrition
- Ground turkey gives you lean protein.
- Herbs, garlic, and lemon zest brighten each bite.
- Olive oil adds healthy fats without making the dish heavy.
Quick and Easy
These can be ready to serve in less than 30 minutes. Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and flexible cooking methods make them ideal for busy nights.
Family-Friendly
Kids love the mild flavor and tender texture, while adults appreciate the freshness and ability to customize with toppings, much like the crowd-pleasing Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bowl.
Restaurant-Quality at Home
Pair them with pita, tzatziki, and a side salad, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like something straight from a Mediterranean café.
Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs
The best part? You don’t need anything fancy. Most of these are pantry staples you probably already have.
Core Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey (preferably 93% lean for extra juiciness)
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for moisture and cooking)
Optional Add-Ins
- Feta cheese crumbles for richness
- Red chili flakes for spice
- Chopped spinach for extra nutrients
How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, spices, lemon zest, and egg. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Mix gently—overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. For even cooking, use a cookie scoop or lightly oiled hands.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
You have two options:
- Bake: Arrange on a parchment-lined sheet pan, brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes.
- Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook in batches, and turn until golden brown on all sides.
Step 4: Serve with Style
Transfer to a serving platter, drizzle with tzatziki, and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Serve alongside warm pita, rice, or a crisp Greek salad.
Tips for Perfect Greek Turkey Meatballs
- Use fresh herbs: they give a brighter, more authentic flavor.
- Chill the mixture: refrigerate for 15 minutes before rolling to make shaping easier.
- Don’t skip lemon zest: it elevates the flavor instantly.
- Cook evenly: avoid overcrowding your skillet if pan-frying.
- Check doneness: internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
Variations You Can Try
One of the best parts about Greek turkey meatballs is how easily you can customize them.
Low-Carb or Keto Version
Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour to keep them low-carb.
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Add a small cube of feta inside each meatball before cooking for a melty surprise.
Spicy Greek Meatballs
If you enjoy a little kick, try a spicy version of these meatballs by mixing in red pepper flakes or cayenne. For another fiery option, you might also enjoy this Spicy Sriracha Chicken Bowl—it’s a bold, flavorful recipe that complements the same flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option
Swap turkey for mashed chickpeas or lentils to create plant-based Greek-style meatballs.
What to Serve with Greek Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are versatile and pair beautifully with many sides. Some delicious options include:
- Classic pairings: tzatziki sauce, hummus, or baba ganoush
- Bread: pita bread, naan, or flatbreads
- Grains: lemon rice, couscous, or quinoa
- Salads: traditional Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta
- Roasted veggies: zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
Health Benefits of Greek Turkey Meatballs
These aren’t just tasty—they’re also packed with nutrients.
- Lean protein from turkey keeps you full longer.
- Herbs and garlic provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats.
- Vegetable add-ins like spinach boost fiber and vitamins.
It’s a well-rounded meal that works perfectly in a balanced Mediterranean-style diet.
FAQs About Greek Turkey Meatballs
Can I freeze Greek turkey meatballs?
Yes. Cook them first, let them cool, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
How can I make sure my turkey meatballs stay juicy?
Don’t overbake, use olive oil for moisture, and mix in lemon juice to help keep them tender.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, prep the mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Keep covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground chicken works well, though turkey has a slightly richer flavor.
Are Greek turkey meatballs healthy?
Yes. They’re lean, high in protein, and packed with fresh herbs. Paired with veggies and whole grains, they’re a complete and balanced meal.
Greek turkey meatballs are everything you want in a recipe: flavorful, easy to prepare, and packed with nourishing ingredients. They bring the bright, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table without complicated steps or hours of cooking.
Next time you’re craving something that feels both comforting and fresh, skip the takeout and make these at home. Serve them with pita and tzatziki for a casual dinner, or pair them with rice and roasted veggies for meal prep.
Now it’s your turn—grab some ground turkey, chop fresh herbs, and try this recipe tonight. Once you taste how delicious and versatile these Greek turkey meatballs are, you’ll want them in your weekly rotation.
Greek Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey 93% lean recommended
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbles
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ cup chopped spinach
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, onion powder, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape meatballs: Roll into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and place evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush tops with remaining olive oil. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with tzatziki, pita, or a side salad.
Notes
- For pan-frying, cook in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- To prevent dryness, don’t overmix the turkey mixture.
- Toss meatballs with a little lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
