Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

I absolutely love this Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe because it’s a fresh twist on a classic that’s both flavorful and healthy. The combination of lean turkey, vibrant herbs, and the subtle moisture from zucchini keeps these meatballs juicy and tender every time. Whether you’re serving them weeknight-style with a simple salad or spicing things up for a weekend gathering, they always hit the spot.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to get restaurant-quality flavor without any fuss. You’ll find that the fresh oregano, spearmint, and parsley make all the difference, giving these meatballs a Mediterranean flair that’s bright and comforting. Plus, they’re versatile and perfect for meal prep or family dinners where everyone asks for seconds.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe come together beautifully to create moist, flavorful meatballs. I always recommend squeezing out the zucchini really well to avoid soggy meatballs and using fresh herbs for maximum aroma and taste.

• Ground turkey: I use 93% lean for a nice balance of juiciness and low fat.
• Grated zucchini: Adds moisture and a subtle veggie boost; just be sure to squeeze it dry.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free bread slices: Acts as a binder and adds a bit of chew versus just crumbs.
• Seasoned breadcrumbs or gluten-free panko: Helps hold everything together and adds a touch of texture.
• Egg: Your classic binder that keeps the meatballs unified.
• Garlic: Minced fresh for that irresistible aroma.
• Red onion: Grated finely for subtle sweetness and moisture.
• Fresh oregano, parsley, and spearmint: These herbs are key for that signature Greek flavor.
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper: Seasoning essentials to bring out all the flavors.
• Olive oil cooking spray: For cooking without excessive fat while getting a nice sear.

Variations

One of the best things about the Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs. I love swapping out herbs or adding a bit of spice here and there to keep things fresh on the table.

• Herb swaps: Sometimes I switch the spearmint for fresh dill or basil if that’s what I have on hand—it changes the profile subtly but deliciously.
• Bread alternatives: You can use extra breadcrumbs instead of bread if you need a gluten-free version, just adjust moisture accordingly.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat and complexity.
• Cheese addition: My family loves it when I mix in a bit of crumbled feta or grated Parmesan for a richer flavor.

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients With Care

Start by soaking the bread in water and squeezing out every bit of excess moisture—that’s crucial to keep the meatballs from becoming soggy. Grate the zucchini and onion finely, and use fresh herbs finely chopped for the best flavor punch. Trust me, this prep makes a huge difference in the final texture and taste.

Step 2: Combine Everything Gently but Thoroughly

In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey with the soaked bread, grated zucchini, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, red onion, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper. I like to use my hands here—don’t overwork the mixture, just enough so everything is evenly combined. This keeps your meatballs tender.

Step 3: Shape and Chill for Best Results

Use a 1/4 cup measure to portion the meatballs—this size cooks evenly and stays juicy. Slightly flatten them into patties to ensure they cook through nicely. Here’s a trick I discovered: refrigerate the shaped meatballs for at least 15 minutes before cooking; it really helps them hold together on the pan or grill.

Step 4: Cook Carefully on Your Chosen Method

For stovetop, spray a large nonstick pan with olive oil and cook the meatballs on very low heat, flipping halfway, about 5-6 minutes per side. Patience here is key to avoid burning and keep them juicy. You can also bake them at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or grill on low heat after prepping the grate with oil—both are equally awesome options depending on your kitchen and mood.

How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these meatballs with crumbled feta and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or oregano—it adds another layer of flavor and a lovely pop of color. A dollop of tzatziki is my go-to sauce; it cools down the herbs and spices perfectly and adds creaminess without overpowering.

Side Dishes

I usually serve these with a Greek salad loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion, plus some warm whole wheat pita bread to scoop up every delicious bite. Roasted lemon potatoes or a simple quinoa salad are great hearty options if you want a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like skewering these meatballs with cherry tomatoes and olives for bite-sized appetizers that look gorgeous on a platter. Another favorite is serving them over creamy polenta or zoodles to keep the meal light yet satisfying—perfect for impressing guests without a ton of work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek turkey meatballs store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I always let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can affect texture. When I pack lunches, these meatballs reheat well and keep their flavor and moisture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these meatballs successfully by laying them on a baking sheet to flash freeze individually, then transferring them to freezer bags. They keep well for up to 3 months, making them such a convenient meal prep option. When you want a quick dinner, just thaw overnight or reheat straight from frozen with a little extra cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer gently warming the meatballs in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave covered with a damp paper towel, but the skillet method preserves the texture better. If frozen, let them thaw overnight for best results before reheating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it blends flavor, health, and ease all in one dish. Every time I make it, I feel like I’m sharing a little bit of Mediterranean sunshine with my family, and they always want it on repeat. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s approachable, packed with fresh taste, and versatile enough for everyday meals or special occasions, give this one a try—you won’t regret it!

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