Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce is an irresistible meal that brings the bold, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table, no passport required! Juicy, fragrant meatballs paired with a refreshing, creamy tzatziki sauce make this dish an instant favorite, whether you’re headed to a picnic, hosting a gathering, or just want to add a little excitement to your weeknight dinner routine. Each bite is a joyful celebration of fresh herbs, spices, and simple, high-quality ingredients that somehow taste like much more than the sum of their parts. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce and learn how to bring this crowd-pleaser to your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is purposefully chosen: they work together to create the perfect texture, aromatic depth, and bursts of fresh flavor in both the meatballs and the tangy tzatziki sauce. Get these staples ready—each one truly matters!
- Olive oil: Essential for keeping the meatballs juicy and for adding that signature Mediterranean richness, as well as ensuring a golden crust as they bake.
- 85/15 ground beef: This blend gives our meatballs just the right amount of fat for flavor and tenderness without becoming greasy.
- Ground pork: Combines with beef for that classic Greek meatball tenderness and a subtle, savory sweetness.
- Salt: Don’t skimp! It brings all the flavors together and enhances every herb and spice in the mix.
- Ground cumin: Just a hint provides that warm, earthy backbone that makes the meatballs truly Greek-inspired.
- Ground oregano: Adds a peppery, slightly lemony note that’s key to authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: These bring a gentle heat that lifts all the flavors without taking over.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Bright, grassy, and essential for both flavor and a pretty pop of green.
- Chopped fresh dill: A classic herb in Greek cuisine, it adds an unmistakable fresh zing to both meatballs and sauce.
- Chopped fresh mint leaves: The cooling mint notes perfectly balance the rich meats and spicy undertones.
- Finely diced red onion: For subtle sweetness, color, and a great little crunch.
- Black pepper: Lends a gentle kick and rounds out the spice profile.
- Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): A foundation of savory depth and a must-have in Greek cooking.
- Seedless cucumber (½ cup, diced): Essential for that crisp, cool bite in our homemade tzatziki sauce.
- Fresh garlic (2 cloves): Infuses the sauce with just the right amount of zingy kick.
- Fresh dill (½ cup): Delivers a burst of herbal brightness and freshness to the sauce.
- Full-fat Greek yogurt (1 cup): Creamy, tangy, and thick—this is the backbone of classic tzatziki.
- Juice of one lemon: A pop of citrus that awakens all the flavors and adds tanginess to the sauce.
- Salt (to taste for sauce): Tastes and adjusts to bring out all the refreshing, herby flavors.
How to Make Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
First, get your oven nice and hot—set it to 425 degrees Fahrenheit so your Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce end up perfectly golden and cooked through. As it preheats, get out a sturdy sheet pan and drizzle it generously with olive oil. This not only prevents sticking, but also helps the meatballs develop that irresistible, crispy exterior.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and add both the ground beef and pork. Now for the fun part—pile in your chopped fresh herbs, diced red onion, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and plenty of salt. Use clean hands (the best kitchen tool!) to mix everything together. You’re looking for a blend that’s cohesive and evenly mixed without overworking the meat, which keeps your meatballs extra tender.
Step 3: Shape and Arrange Your Meatballs
Scoop up the meat mixture with a cookie dough scoop for even portions, then roll each into a ball between your palms. Arrange them in neat rows on the olive oil–drizzled sheet pan, giving a bit of space in between so they roast—rather than steam—to savory perfection.
Step 4: Bake Until Just Right
Toast them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they’re juicy and cooked through. They should be beautifully browned, glistening, and fragrant. While those mouthwatering aromas fill your kitchen, you can prepare the sauce.
Step 5: Whip Up the Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs cook, toss the cucumber, garlic, and dill into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Fold this vibrant, herby mixture into the thick Greek yogurt. Squeeze in your lemon juice, sprinkle with salt to taste, and stir until creamy and well combined. Stash the sauce in the fridge until you’re ready to serve your homemade Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Savor!
Once the meatballs are done, let them cool slightly before serving. Pile them onto a platter, drizzle (or generously dollop) with your chilled tzatziki sauce, and get ready for instant compliments. Grab a plate and enjoy—these are best shared!
How to Serve Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
Garnishes
Finish your Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce with a handful of freshly chopped dill, parsley, and perhaps a sprinkle of crumbled feta or a dusting of sumac for color and a zesty punch. A few lemon wedges on the side not only brighten the platter visually but give your guests a chance to add more citrus if desired.
Side Dishes
These meatballs work magic with a spread of Mediterranean sides. Try pairing them with warm pita, a crisp Greek salad, herby rice, or simple grilled vegetables. Whether you’re going for an elegant dinner or a casual mezze spread, Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce happily star alongside any favorite side.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative! Thread the meatballs onto skewers for elegant party bites, tuck them into warm pita wraps with a drizzle of tzatziki, or serve as part of a vibrant mezze board. Individually plated or piled up family-style, these are a feast for both the eyes and the appetite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce to airtight containers. Store the meatballs and sauce separately to keep textures and flavors at their best—refrigerated, they’ll stay delicious for up to four days. The herbs in the meatballs deepen in flavor overnight, making leftovers a real treat!
Freezing
Meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange cooled, cooked meatballs on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months. The tzatziki sauce, however, is best enjoyed fresh—make a new batch when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
For the tastiest results, reheat meatballs gently in a 325-degree oven until warmed through, or microwave on medium power in short bursts. Keep a watchful eye to avoid drying them out. Always add the chilled tzatziki sauce just before serving for that signature creamy-cool zing.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef and pork?
Absolutely! You can swap ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation. Just keep an eye on moisture levels since leaner meats can dry out more easily; adding a splash of olive oil to the mix helps keep things juicy.
Is it possible to make Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce gluten free?
Yes, these meatballs are naturally gluten-free as written, with no breadcrumbs or fillers—just be sure that all your seasonings are certified gluten-free if you have allergies.
Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop instead?
You sure can! Sear the meatballs in a large skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat, turning to brown them on all sides, then finish in the pan until cooked through. This method delivers a beautiful crust and is perfect for small batches.
How far in advance can I make the tzatziki sauce?
Tzatziki sauce can be made up to two days in advance. In fact, letting it chill gives the flavors even more time to meld and taste fantastic—just give it a good stir before serving.
What’s the best way to keep meatballs warm for a party?
Keep your Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce warm by transferring them to a slow cooker or a low oven until ready to serve. Present the sauce on the side and watch as everyone comes back for seconds (and thirds!).
Final Thoughts
If you love dishes that deliver on both bold flavors and easy elegance, you simply have to try Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. It’s cozy, festive, and full of vibrant Mediterranean spirit. Bring this recipe to your next gathering or enjoy it for a special weeknight meal—you’ll be delighted at how effortlessly it becomes a new favorite!
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Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delight your taste buds with these flavorful Greek meatballs served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound 85/15 ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- ½ cup diced seedless cucumber
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- ½ cup fresh dill
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
- Scoop the meat mixture using a cookie dough scoop to form the meatballs and then roll them between the palm of your hands.
- Place them on a sheet pan that has been drizzled with olive oil. Bake at 425 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- For the tzatziki sauce:
- When the meatballs are done, let them cool slightly and then serve with the tzatziki sauce. Enjoy!
Add the ground pork, ground beef, fresh herbs, onion, garlic, spices, salt, and pepper to a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined.
Add the cucumber, garlic, and dill to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Add the cucumber mixture to the Greek yogurt and stir until well combined. Stir in the lemon juice and salt. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the meatball size to your preference.
- Adjust the spice levels in the meatballs and tzatziki sauce according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Greek, Meatballs, Tzatziki Sauce, Mediterranean, Flavorful
