If you’re craving a light, nutritious, and flavor-packed dish, these Greek Turkey Meatballs are just what your meal plan needs. Made with lean ground turkey, Mediterranean herbs, and salty feta cheese, these meatballs are not only healthy but incredibly satisfying. They’re versatile enough to be served as a main dish, an appetizer, or meal-prep protein throughout the week. Whether you’re following a clean eating plan or just looking for something delicious and easy, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Greek turkey meatballs check all the boxes when it comes to a wholesome, tasty meal:
Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, oregano, lemon zest, and crumbled feta gives these meatballs a bright and savory Mediterranean flair.
Lean but Juicy: Using ground turkey keeps them light, but thanks to the added herbs, cheese, and olive oil, they stay moist and tender.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.
Great for Any Occasion: Serve them at a dinner party with tzatziki, toss them in a pita wrap, or enjoy them with rice and roasted veggies.
Low Carb & High Protein: Ideal for keto, Mediterranean, or high-protein diets.
Ingredients
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or 1 tsp dried dill
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 egg
Zest of 1 lemon
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for added texture)
1 tbsp olive oil (for baking or pan-frying)
For Serving (optional):
Tzatziki sauce
Lemon wedges
Warm pita or rice
Chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, feta, onion, parsley, dill, garlic, oregano, egg, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs (if using).
Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated—don’t overmix to avoid tough meatballs.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Brush or spray with a bit of olive oil.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
Serve hot with your favorite Mediterranean sides or sauce.
Servings and Timing
Yield: 16–18 meatballs (serves 4–5)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for busy days.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Chicken Instead: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or even plant-based ground alternatives.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-friendly version.
Stuffed Meatballs: Insert a small cube of feta or mozzarella into the center of each meatball before baking for a cheesy surprise.
Saucy Option: Simmer the cooked meatballs in a lemon-herb yogurt sauce or light tomato sauce for extra richness.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked meatballs in a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Flash-freeze first to keep them from sticking together.
Reheating Options
Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes for a crispy exterior.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs without feta?
Yes! You can omit the feta or replace it with another cheese like goat cheese, or skip cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.
2. What’s the best side dish to serve with Greek turkey meatballs?
Tzatziki, Greek salad, roasted veggies, lemon rice, or pita bread all pair beautifully with these meatballs.
3. How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?
Use turkey that’s at least 93% lean, add moisture-rich ingredients like onion and herbs, and avoid overbaking.
4. Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
Absolutely! Just heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs for 8–10 minutes, turning until evenly browned and cooked through.
Conclusion
These Greek Turkey Meatballs are proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring. With bold Mediterranean flavors, juicy texture, and endless serving options, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or impressive gatherings.
Whether you pair them with tzatziki and warm pita or enjoy them straight from the fridge as a protein-packed snack, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Print
Greek Turkey Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 18 meatballs
Description
These juicy Greek Turkey Meatballs are packed with Mediterranean flavor thanks to fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and creamy feta cheese. Whether you bake or air-fry them, they’re perfect for a light, protein-rich meal. Serve with tzatziki, salad, or in a pita wrap for an easy, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 1lb ground turkey (I prefer 93/7 lean)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 large red onion
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Tzatziki Recipe (cut in half)
Tomato Cucumber Feta Salad
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add ground turkey and minced garlic.
- Grate 1/4 red onion into turkey, alternatively chop red onion very small.
- Add egg, breadcrumbs, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, I use my hands.
- Form into 14 meatballs.
- Heat sauce pan with olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add meatballs and cook for 7-8 minutes, turning every constantly to ensure even cooking on all sides. Once meatballs reach 165F they are done.
- While meatballs are cooking, make Tzatziki.
- Serve over rice!
Notes
- Use 93% lean turkey for juicier meatballs.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients—this keeps them tender.
- Make them ahead and store for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Serve as appetizers with toothpicks and dipping sauce.
- Freeze raw or cooked meatballs for future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes