Name: Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley; 3 tablespoons grated onion; 1 clove garlic, grated; Zest of a lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste; 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup shredded cucumber, liquid squeezed out; 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt; Juice of half a lemon; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 81 reviews

If you are craving something bursting with Mediterranean charm and vibrant flavors, the Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These meatballs are a harmonious blend of juicy ground beef, fragrant herbs, bright lemon zest, and creamy feta cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Paired with a cool, tangy tzatziki sauce, this dish offers a wonderful balance of warm spices and refreshing yogurt dip that feels like a little trip to Greece right from your home. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer or a main course, they bring irresistible flavor and heartwarming comfort to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with multiple layers of ingredients arranged separately. On the left side, there is raw ground meat in a deep red color. Above it, there is a fluffy, white layer of grated onion. To the right of the onion, a bright yellow egg yolk rests smoothly. Below the egg yolk is a heap of finely shredded yellow zest, likely lemon. Beside the zest, there is a mound of fresh, chopped green herbs. Next to the green herbs is a small portion of minced light yellow garlic. In the center, there are light brown spices and beige breadcrumbs scattered over the meat. The ingredients are all fresh and each layer is clearly visible and distinct. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

With a handful of simple yet carefully selected ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and delivers amazing taste and texture. Each item carries its own flair, from the tender beef to the zesty lemon that brightens every bite, making the cooking experience both straightforward and rewarding.

Lean ground beef (1 pound): The hearty base of the meatballs that keeps them juicy and full of flavor.
Panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): Adds lightness and helps keep the meatballs tender without being dense.
Chopped flat leaf parsley (1/4 cup): Provides fresh herbal notes and a lovely green color.
Grated onion (3 tablespoons): Infuses sweet, savory depth that blends perfectly with the spices.
Grated garlic (1 clove): Essential for that punch of aromatic warmth throughout the meat mixture.
Lemon zest: Brightens the mix with citrusy freshness, harmonizing with the spices.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds acidity to balance the richness of the meat and feta.
Egg (1): Acts as a binder ensuring the meatballs hold their shape while baking.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): A classic Greek herb that brings authentic earthy flavor.
Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle fragrant warmth that’s unique and inviting.
Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a smoky, slightly nutty note to the meatballs.
Ground cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint adds an unexpected depth and richness.
Salt and fresh ground black pepper: To enhance and balance all the flavors perfectly.
Feta cheese, crumbled (2 ounces): Adds creamy saltiness that elevates the entire dish.
For Tzatziki Sauce:
Shredded cucumber (1 cup), liquid squeezed out: Keeps the sauce thick without watering it down.
Plain Greek yogurt (1 1/2 cups): The creamy, tangy base of the sauce that complements the meatballs beautifully.
Juice of half a lemon: Lifts the sauce with bright acidity.
Chopped fresh dill (1 tablespoon): Adds freshness and a classic herbaceous flavor.
Grated garlic or garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon or 1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle kick to the sauce.
Salt and fresh ground black pepper: To season and balance the flavor of the tzatziki.

How to Make Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheating your oven to 450° F sets the perfect stage for those meatballs to develop a lovely golden crust. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking. A quick spray of cooking oil ensures the meatballs get that beautiful, slightly crisp exterior we all love.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine panko, parsley, grated onion, garlic, lemon zest and juice, egg, the spice blend, salt, pepper, and crumbled feta. Mixing these together first ensures even distribution of flavors before adding the ground beef.

Step 3: Incorporate the Ground Beef

Adding the ground beef and gently combining with your hands is the delicate part—mix just enough to blend everything without overworking the meat, which keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs for uniform cooking. This size is perfect for bite-sized treats if serving as appetizers or a satisfying portion if plated as an entrée.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Place the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil. This little step helps with browning and adds a touch of rich flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the meatballs into the center rack of your oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them beautifully golden brown and cooked through but not dry.

Step 7: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs bake, whisk together shredded cucumber, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. This sauce comes together quickly and adds that signature cooling contrast that makes this Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe so memorable.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are out of the oven, serve them piping hot alongside the fresh tzatziki sauce. Get ready for an irresistible combination of warm, spiced meat and creamy, refreshing dip!

How to Serve Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

The image shows a dark oven tray lined with parchment paper that holds 24 small, round meatballs, arranged in a grid pattern across six rows and four columns. Each meatball is brown with visible bits of green herbs and white pieces mixed inside, giving them a textured and slightly rough surface. Some meatballs have small melted white spots from cheese or fat, and a few have small pools of shiny juices around their bases, creating glistening marks on the parchment paper. The tray is set on a white marbled surface, enhancing the contrast with the meatballs and parchment. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the meatballs for an extra burst of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a squeeze of bright citrus that enhances the flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

These meatballs shine when paired with traditional Greek sides like a simple cucumber and tomato salad, warm pita bread, or fluffy rice pilaf. Roasted vegetables or a crisp Greek salad also complement the dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve the meatballs on skewers with small dollops of tzatziki on top or set out a platter with toothpicks and a bowl of sauce for dipping. Alternatively, serve them over a bed of couscous or orzo for a heartier meal bursting with Mediterranean flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover meatballs and tzatziki sauce in airtight containers and refrigerate. The meatballs stay tender and flavorful for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatballs (without sauce) by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months. Freeze tzatziki separately to keep its fresh consistency.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in the oven at 350° F until warmed through to preserve their juicy texture. Tzatziki is best served cold or at room temperature, so avoid heating it and give it a quick stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use ground lamb instead of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground lamb works wonderfully in Greek dishes and adds a rich, authentic flavor to your meatballs that pairs perfectly with tzatziki sauce.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, keeping your meatballs just as delicious and tender.

Can I prepare the tzatziki sauce in advance?

Definitely. Tzatziki actually tastes better when it has time to chill and let the flavors meld. It can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

Be careful not to overmix the meat and avoid overbaking. Using a combination of breadcrumbs and egg helps retain moisture, and brushing the tops with olive oil before baking keeps them beautifully moist.

What can I serve if I don’t have fresh dill for the tzatziki?

If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill can be used in a pinch, though fresh offers the best flavor. Alternatively, chopped fresh mint or parsley can add a fresh herbal note, giving the tzatziki a slightly different but still delicious twist.

Final Thoughts

Making this Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is like inviting the warm, vibrant spirit of Greece into your kitchen. These meatballs bring together lively spices, fresh herbs, and creamy elements that everyone will love. Whether you’re whipping them up for weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is both a crowd-pleaser and comfort food at its finest. Go ahead, give it a try — your taste buds are in for a joyful treat!