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These Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs with Feta and Herb Yogurt Dip strike a perfect balance between flavorful and wholesome. They make an ideal weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying yet light, all while feeling like you nailed a slightly fancy recipe without breaking a sweat.
I first made these for a friend’s casual dinner and now everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients
- Lean ground turkey: Protein forward base with a mild flavor
- Crumbled feta: Salty brightness and creamy texture contrast
- Breadcrumbs or panko: Prevents dense meatballs and keeps them tender
- Egg: Binds the mixture so meatballs hold their shape
- Fresh garlic: Adds savory punch
- Parsley and dill: Fresh herbaceous Greek character
- Lemon zest: Bright citrus lift
- Olive oil: Adds richness and moisture
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning
- Plain Greek yogurt for the dip: Creamy tang
- Lemon juice for the dip: Adds brightness
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius so it is ready when the meatballs are mixed
- Prepare baking sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy and to prevent sticking
- Combine ingredients:
- Mix the turkey, feta, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley and dill, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl using gentle motions until just incorporated
- Shape meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into golf ball sized meatballs and arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet so they roast instead of steam
- Bake meatballs:
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes flipping halfway if you want both sides to brown until they feel firm but still juicy
- Make the yogurt dip:
- Stir together plain Greek yogurt, chopped parsley and dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and taste to adjust
- Serve:
- Serve the hot meatballs alongside the cool yogurt dip with an extra squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs
One family night these meatballs turned into a game night favorite because everyone loved dipping bites and sharing stories between rounds.
Storage Tips
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep the yogurt dip separate and use within two days. For longer storage freeze cooked meatballs on a tray until firm then transfer to a freezer bag they keep well frozen for up to three months. To thaw move them to the fridge overnight or reheat straight from frozen at a lower oven temperature.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fresh herbs use dried parsley and dill at about one third the amount and adjust to taste. Ground chicken works as an alternative to turkey. For gluten free use gluten free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts. For dairy free skip the feta or swap with a soft vegan cheese and use a plant based yogurt in the dip with added lemon juice for tang.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple Greek salad of tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives or warm pita bread to scoop up extra dip. They are also great over couscous or quinoa and with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Leftover meatballs make tasty sandwich fillings or additions to grain bowls.
Enjoy these with extra lemon and fresh herbs. They make an easy crowd pleaser.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What herbs are used in the meatballs?
Fresh parsley and dill provide the signature herbaceous flavor, complementing the feta and lemon zest perfectly.
- → Can I use panko instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, panko works well to keep the meatballs tender and light without making them dense.
- → How should I bake the turkey meatballs?
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- → What makes the yogurt dip flavorful?
The dip combines Greek yogurt with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- → Can these meatballs be served cold or reheated?
They are best served warm right from the oven, but reheating gently in the oven or microwave also works well.