Greek Turkey Meatballs

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why make this recipe

Greek Turkey Meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic meatball. They are simple to make, full of flavor, and packed with healthy ingredients. Ground turkey is a lighter meat option compared to traditional beef or pork, and it still gives you that hearty texture that meatballs are known for. Adding feta cheese and spices creates a burst of Mediterranean flavor that makes these meatballs a standout dish. Whether you want a quick dinner, a meal prep option, or a fun appetizer for a gathering, Greek Turkey Meatballs are the perfect choice.

In addition to tasting great, these meatballs are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them in many different ways, whether as a main dish with sides, in a wrap, or on a skewer at parties. Plus, they are easy to store, which means you can make a big batch and enjoy them later. It’s a recipe that’s good for your health and great for your taste buds!

Greek Turkey Meatballs are fantastic for family dinners, entertaining friends, or meal prepping for the week. You can keep them in the fridge or freezer and reheat them whenever you need a quick meal. Let’s dive into how you can make these flavorful meatballs at home and enjoy them any time you want.

how to make Greek Turkey Meatballs

Making Greek Turkey Meatballs is straightforward. You will use easily accessible ingredients and follow simple steps to create a delightful dish. Below are the details on what you’ll need and how to bring everything together.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C): Before you start mixing your ingredients, preheat your oven. This ensures that when you place the meatballs in it, they will cook evenly and thoroughly.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper: This step is important because it prevents the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup easier later on.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form the meatballs: Once your mixture is well combined, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into golf-ball-sized meatballs. Make sure to leave enough space between each meatball on the baking sheet to allow them to cook evenly. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.
Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes. They are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they are golden brown.
Cool and serve: After baking, let the meatballs cool slightly before serving. They can be served hot on their own, with tzatziki sauce for dipping, or over a bed of rice for a fuller meal.

how to serve Greek Turkey Meatballs

When it comes to serving Greek Turkey Meatballs, you have many options. Here are a few ideas:

With Tzatziki Sauce: A fresh and creamy tzatziki sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill complements the flavors beautifully. This can be used as a dip on the side.
On a Bed of Rice: Serving the meatballs over rice makes for a filling meal. You can use plain rice, lemon rice, or a Mediterranean rice pilaf to add extra flavor.
In a Pita or Wrap: For a more casual meal, consider stuffing the meatballs into whole-wheat pitas with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce. This makes for a great lunch option!
With a Salad: Pair the meatballs with a side salad to lighten up the meal. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese goes very well.
Skewered: For a fun party appetizer, thread cooked meatballs onto skewers. You can serve them on a platter with different sauces for dipping.

how to store Greek Turkey Meatballs

Storing Greek Turkey Meatballs is easy and allows you to enjoy them at your convenience.

Refrigeration

Let them cool first: After baking the meatballs, allow them to cool to room temperature.
Use an airtight container: Place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing

Prepare for freezing: For longer storage, meatballs freeze well. You can freeze them after cooking or before baking.
After cooking: Let them cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Before cooking: If you want to freeze the uncooked meatballs, form them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a bag. When ready to cook, you can bake them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

tips to make Greek Turkey Meatballs

Don’t overmix the meat: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine the ingredients until just mixed.
Adjust the spices: Feel free to customize the spices to your taste. If you like it spicy, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Baking sheet size: If you have a lot of meatballs, use two baking sheets instead of crowding them on one. This will help them cook more evenly.
Use lean turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the meatballs healthier without sacrificing too much moisture.
Make mini meatballs: If you need small appetizers, form smaller meatballs. They will bake a bit faster, so keep an eye on them.

variation

There are many ways to vary the Greek Turkey Meatballs recipe. Here are a few ideas:

Mediterranean Veggie Meatballs: Add finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the mixture. This will not only change the texture but also add more nutrients.
Different Cheeses: Instead of feta cheese, you can experiment with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella for a different flavor.
Herbs and Spices: Add fresh dill or mint for a different aroma. You could also switch oregano for Italian seasoning.
Baked or Fried: If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can lightly pan-fry the meatballs in a skillet with a bit of olive oil before finishing them off in the oven.
Cucumber and Tomato Salsa: Serve the meatballs with a cucumber and tomato salsa instead of tzatziki for a fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use beef or pork instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef or pork for ground turkey. However, the cooking time may change slightly. Make sure to check the internal temperature and adjust accordingly.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or freeze them for later use.

What should I serve with Greek Turkey Meatballs?

You can serve them with tzatziki sauce, over rice, in pitas, or alongside salads. The options are endless!

How can I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your meatballs are fully cooked is to check their internal temperature. They should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I bake these meatballs in a hurry?

If you’re short on time, you can bake the meatballs at a higher temperature, like 425°F (220°C). Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning or drying out.

Can I freeze cooked meatballs?

Yes, cooked meatballs freeze well! Just let them cool, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be reheated straight from the freezer.