Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

I absolutely love this Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe because it brings together the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in a way that feels both wholesome and comforting. These meatballs are wonderfully tender thanks to the grated zucchini and fresh herbs, and they pack a tasty punch without being heavy or greasy – perfect for a family dinner or meal prep that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health.

When I first tried making Greek turkey meatballs, I was amazed by how simple ingredients like fresh oregano, mint, and parsley completely transformed ground turkey into something special. You’ll find that these meatballs hold up beautifully whether you pan-fry, bake, or grill them, giving you the flexibility to adapt to your kitchen style or occasion.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients strike the perfect balance between flavor, moisture, and texture. The grated zucchini sneaks in some extra veggies and moisture, while the fresh herbs add an unbeatable aroma that makes each bite special.

• Ground Turkey: I use 93% lean for a juicy but healthy meatball.
• Zucchini: Grated and squeezed to keep meatballs moist without sogginess.
• Whole Wheat Bread: Soaked and squeezed to help bind the meatballs gently.
• Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Adds extra texture and absorbs juices nicely.
• Egg: The classic binder that holds everything together.
• Garlic: Fresh and minced for that punchy, savory kick.
• Red Onion: Grated finely to melt into the mixture, adding subtle sweetness.
• Fresh Oregano: Bright, earthy herb flavor that’s key to the Greek taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a mild, fresh note to balance the herbs.
• Fresh Spearmint: Trust me, it’s a game changer for authentic flavor.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: To season everything perfectly.
• Olive Oil Cooking Spray: For a healthier cooking method that gives a nice crust.

Variations

One of the best things about this Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Depending on what herbs you have or your dietary needs, you can switch a few things up and still get fantastic results.

• Herb swaps: If you don’t have fresh spearmint, try fresh basil or dill for a new twist I recently enjoyed.
• Breadcrumb alternatives: You can skip the bread entirely and just use more seasoned breadcrumbs for a lower-carb option.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat – my husband loves this spicy kick.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread and panko breadcrumbs so everyone at the table can enjoy them.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your binding ingredients

Start by wetting your bread slices with a little water and squeezing out any excess liquid. This keeps the bread moist but prevents soggy meatballs. Tear the bread into small bits and place them in a large mixing bowl – this soft bread will help the meatballs stay tender and sticky without needing a ton of extra filler.

Step 2: Mix all ingredients thoroughly

Add the ground turkey, grated zucchini (make sure to squeeze its liquid out first), egg, seasoned breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated red onion, and all the fresh herbs to the bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix everything gently but thoroughly – you want everything evenly combined but don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender.

Step 3: Form the meatballs and chill

Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture and shape into slightly flattened patties. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and for snacking or serving as a main. Place them on a plate or tray, then pop in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to help them firm up so they hold their shape when cooking.

Step 4: Cook to perfection

Whether you prefer to pan-fry, bake, or grill, these meatballs shine. For pan-frying, spray a large nonstick skillet with olive oil and cook over very low heat for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Low and slow is the trick here to cook them through without drying out. Alternatively, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, turning over halfway, or grill on low heat for about 5 minutes each side, making sure to oil the grill grate first.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these meatballs with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or oregano. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving really brightens the flavors and makes every bite pop. Sometimes, a dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side takes it to the next level – creamy, cool and refreshing.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with these Greek turkey meatballs are a light Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion or a simple side of roasted lemon potatoes. But they also taste wonderful served over fluffy couscous, quinoa, or alongside warm pita bread and hummus.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I like to serve these meatballs on skewers with grilled veggies for a fun tapas-style presentation. They also make fantastic sliders when topped with tzatziki and tucked into mini pita rounds – perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs keep really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually pop them in for quick lunches or dinners, and they always taste great even the next day.

Freezing

I like to freeze uncooked meatballs on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once firm. This way, you can cook just what you need without thawing the entire batch – a real time-saver on hectic days.

Reheating

To keep them moist when reheating, I zap leftovers in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the plate, or reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water, covered, until warmed through. This helps prevent drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a fresh twist to your weeknight dinners, this Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe is such a winner. I love it because it’s simple enough for a busy evening but full of flavor that feels like a treat. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it’s one of those easy, flavorful recipes that gets requested over and over again in your home.

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