Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Looking for a hearty meal that’s rich in flavor but healthy and light? These Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs are a perfect blend of aromatic herbs, zesty ingredients, and lean protein. Serve them with tzatziki, a fresh salad, or a warm plate of quinoa for a complete meal. They’re great for meal prep, freezing, or adding a Mediterranean twist to your dinner routine.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 large egg
Olive oil for cooking
Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, chili flakes, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. Crack in the beaten egg and mix until evenly combined.
Form the meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball–sized meatballs (about 1–1.5 inch in diameter).
Cook the meatballs: Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer (without overcrowding) and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning frequently until all sides are nicely browned.
Simmer until fully cooked: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Serve warm with tzatziki sauce, a side salad, quinoa, or flatbread.
Tips:
Don’t overmix — Gently combine ingredients until just evenly distributed. This helps keep the meatballs tender instead of tough.
Moisture balance — If mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs; if it’s too dry, add a small splash of milk or water.
Browning — Sear the meatballs in a medium-hot skillet first to lock in flavor and texture before finishing them with a brief simmer.
Baking option — If you prefer less oil, you can Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Variations:
Protein swap — Use ground chicken or a mixture of ground lamb and beef for a rich flavor.
Add veggies — Fold in chopped spinach, zucchini, or olives for additional texture and nutrients.
Cheese-stuffed — Insert a small cube of fetta or mozzarella into each meatball for a melty surprise.
Sauce variation — Serve with tomato sauce, tahini, or a creamy yogurt-cucumber tzatziki for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-free option — Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
Q&A:
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes! After cooking, let them cool completely and transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven.
Are these meatballs meal-prep friendly?
Yes — you can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Pair them with a grain or salad for convenient meal prepping.
What can I serve them with?
Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs are great with tzatziki sauce, flatbread, quinoa, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.
Are they gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
Nutrition (per serving — 4 meatballs)
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrate: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 490mg
Values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. Always check your ingredients for accurate information if you have dietary restrictions or health goals to follow.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs bring together rich flavor, healthy ingredients, and ease of preparation — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you serve them in a salad bowl, alongside creamy tzatziki, or with warm flatbread, these versatile meatballs make for a hearty and satisfying meal that your whole family will love.