Greek-Style Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek-Style Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce (also known as Keftedes) are tender, juicy meatballs infused with Mediterranean herbs, garlic, and onion — served alongside a cool, creamy, garlicky Tzatziki yogurt sauce. Every bite offers a burst of savory and refreshing flavors that transport you straight to a sunny Greek taverna.

These meatballs are crisp on the outside, soft and juicy on the inside, and balanced perfectly with the tang of lemon and the freshness of mint and parsley. The Tzatziki Sauce, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, adds a light, refreshing contrast that elevates the entire dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it combines everything I adore about Mediterranean cooking — fresh herbs, bold spices, and bright, clean flavors.

The meatballs are incredibly juicy, thanks to the combination of lamb and beef (or your preferred blend), and the Tzatziki brings a cool, creamy contrast that makes each bite refreshing and satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Combines rich, spiced meat with fresh, cooling yogurt sauce — the perfect flavor balance.
• High-protein, low-carb, and nutritious.
• Easy to prepare but tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
• Works beautifully as a main course, appetizer, or party platter.
• Freezes and reheats wonderfully.

If you’re a fan of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine, this dish is an absolute must-try for your home kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4 (makes about 20 meatballs)
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving (including Tzatziki)

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
• Course: Main Course / Appetizer

Ingredients

For the Greek Meatballs (Keftedes):

• ½ lb (250 g) ground beef
• ½ lb (250 g) ground lamb (or use all beef/turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional but traditional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (thick and unsweetened)
• ½ cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix meatball ingredients into a bowl and form small balls.
2. Bake or pan-fry until golden and cooked through.
3. Combine Tzatziki ingredients in a bowl.
4. Serve the hot meatballs with chilled Tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess water using a clean cloth or paper towel.
2. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and cucumber.
3. Mix well, season with salt and pepper, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Tip: The longer it chills, the better the flavor develops.

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, mint, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix, as it can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

1. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1½ inches in diameter).
2. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Option 1: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Place the meatballs on a lined baking tray and brush lightly with olive oil.
3. Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Option 2: Pan-Fry

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add meatballs in batches and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown evenly on all sides.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve

• Arrange the warm meatballs on a platter.
• Serve with a bowl of chilled Tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

How to Serve

• Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of Tzatziki for dipping.
• For a meal, serve with pita bread, rice, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Wrap the meatballs in warm pita with Tzatziki, lettuce, tomato, and onion for a Greek-style gyro.
• Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with chopped dill before serving for a restaurant-style touch.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Grate the onion instead of chopping — it adds moisture and flavor.
• Don’t overmix the meat — mix just until combined for tender meatballs.
• Chill the mixture for 15 minutes before shaping to make it easier to roll.
• For extra flavor, use a mix of ground lamb and beef.
• Always let the meatballs rest a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Turkey Greek Meatballs: Use lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
Cheese-Stuffed Keftedes: Add a small cube of feta cheese inside each meatball before cooking.
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or finely diced jalapeño to the mix.
Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with mashed chickpeas, breadcrumbs, and feta for a delicious vegetarian option.
Lemon-Herb Twist: Add extra lemon zest and a bit of thyme for a bright, fresh flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Tzatziki can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet or skillet
• Parchment paper
• Grater (for cucumber and onion)
• Whisk or spoon for mixing sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and shape them ahead, then refrigerate raw meatballs for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q2. Can I use only beef or only lamb?
Definitely. You can use any ground meat — beef, lamb, chicken, or turkey — depending on your preference.

Q3. How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?
Don’t overcook them, and make sure the mixture has enough fat (using lamb or a mix helps).

Q4. Can I air-fry these meatballs?
Yes! Air-fry at 190°C (375°F) for about 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Q5. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed oats, almond flour, or even soaked bread pieces.

Conclusion

Greek-Style Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are the perfect combination of savory, herby, and refreshing flavors. The juicy, aromatic meatballs paired with the cooling tang of Tzatziki make this dish both hearty and light — truly the best of Greek cuisine.

Whether served as a main course, party appetizer, or wrapped in pita, these meatballs bring Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Simple to prepare, healthy, and utterly delicious — once you make them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.