Greek Turkey Meatballs

There’s something so comforting about homemade meatballs, and when they’re infused with Mediterranean flavors, they become truly irresistible. Greek turkey meatballs, also known as Keftedes, are juicy, flavorful, and packed with herbs and spices that transport you straight to a seaside taverna in Greece.

This recipe is a lighter take on traditional Greek meatballs, which are often made with lamb or beef. By using turkey, you get a leaner, healthier version while still keeping all those bold, delicious flavors intact. These meatballs are incredibly versatile—they can be served as an appetizer with tzatziki, stuffed into pita wraps, or paired with a fresh Greek salad for a wholesome meal.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, cooking for your family, or hosting a Mediterranean-themed dinner, these Greek turkey meatballs will quickly become a favorite. Their combination of garlic, oregano, and feta makes every bite a burst of flavor, and they’re perfect for dipping into creamy sauces or enjoying on their own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with flavor – Fresh herbs, garlic, and spices make these meatballs anything but boring.
• Healthy and nutritious – Made with lean turkey, they’re high in protein and lower in fat.
• Versatile – Serve them in wraps, with rice, or as a party appetizer.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a great go-to meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground turkey
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ small red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking, if pan-frying)

How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, feta cheese, minced garlic, chopped red onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Using clean hands (or a spoon), gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough instead of tender. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form the meatballs. Take a small portion of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, placing the shaped meatballs on a plate or baking sheet.

If you find the mixture sticking to your hands, lightly oil them with a little olive oil to make rolling easier.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

There are a few ways to cook these delicious Greek turkey meatballs:

Option 1: Pan-Frying (For a Crispy Exterior)

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Remove from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Option 2: Baking (For an Easy, Hands-Off Approach)

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Option 3: Air Frying (For a Quick, Healthy Option)

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the meatballs in the basket in a single layer.
3. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Meatballs

• Use a cookie scoop – This helps create evenly sized meatballs so they cook evenly.
• Chill the mixture – If your mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling the meatballs. This helps them hold their shape better.
• Don’t overmix – Mix just until everything is combined to keep the meatballs tender.
• Test one first – If you’re unsure about seasoning, cook one meatball first and adjust the seasonings as needed before cooking the rest.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course, Appetizer
• Method: Pan-Fried, Baked, Air-Fried
• Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
• Diet: High-Protein, Low-Carb (if using almond flour)

Notes

• Adjust the seasoning to your taste – If you like a stronger Mediterranean flavor, feel free to add more oregano, cumin, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a warm depth of flavor.
• Make them gluten-free – Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make these meatballs gluten-free.
• Use fresh herbs if possible – While dried oregano works well, using fresh herbs like chopped dill or mint will add extra freshness to your meatballs.
• Try a different cheese – If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative.
• Double the batch – These meatballs freeze beautifully, so make a big batch and store extras for quick meals later.
• Serve with a squeeze of lemon – A bit of fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving enhances the flavors and gives the meatballs a bright, zesty finish.

What to Serve with Greek Turkey Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to serve them:

• With tzatziki sauce – The creamy, garlicky dip is the perfect complement.
• Inside a pita – Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce for a delicious wrap.
• With rice or quinoa – A simple grain bowl with veggies and feta makes for a filling meal.
• On a mezze platter – Pair them with hummus, olives, and grilled veggies for an appetizer spread.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

Greek turkey meatballs freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• From the fridge: Warm them in a pan, oven, or microwave.
• From frozen: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe and will give you a similar texture.

How do I keep my meatballs from drying out?

To keep them moist, don’t overcook them and make sure to include the feta cheese and breadcrumbs, which help retain moisture.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Greek turkey meatballs, you might enjoy these other Mediterranean-inspired dishes:

• Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
• Marry Me Chicken Meatballs: A Comforting and Romantic Dish for Every Occasion
• Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs
• Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Conclusion

Greek turkey meatballs are an easy, healthy, and flavor-packed dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you serve them in wraps, over rice, or as part of a mezze platter, they bring a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen.

Print