Turkish Meatballs

Turkish Meatballs are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting family meal, these meatballs in yogurt sauce provide an impressive presentation and taste. The spiced meatballs paired with creamy yogurt and a drizzle of Aleppo-infused olive oil create a unique culinary experience that stands out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and the tangy yogurt sauce delivers a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect as a main course or appetizer, these meatballs suit various dining settings.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh herbs, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Impressive presentation: The vibrant colors and textures will wow your guests at dinner parties or family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Turkish Meatballs, having the right tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking for your meatballs while providing ample space for them to brown nicely.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth texture in your yogurt sauce by blending ingredients seamlessly.

Ingredients

Turkish Meatballs in Yogurt Sauce is a flavor-packed dish perfect for an easy yet impressive dinner! It’s made up of spiced meatballs nestled in a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce, finished with a drizzle of Aleppo pepper-infused olive oil. Pickled red onions add a pop of brightness and crunch.

• 1 slice bread
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or a mixture of beef and lamb)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup finely chopped flat leaf parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon Urfa Biber
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (plus more for later)
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• pickled red onions (optional, to serve)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Turkish Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Position one oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Toast the bread until golden brown. Place it in a small bowl and add water to cover. Soak until very soft. Remove from water and wring it out to make it dry. Tear into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked bread, ground meat, diced onion, minced garlic, parsley, and egg. Season with cumin, coriander, Urfa Biber, Aleppo pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Take handfuls of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) and form them into meatballs. You should have about 18–20 meatballs. Arrange them on the prepared sheet pan.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Transfer the pan to the oven to bake until cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Mix the Yogurt Sauce

While baking, prepare the yogurt sauce. In another bowl, combine cornstarch with water; whisk until dissolved. Add one egg and Greek yogurt along with a pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Step 7: Cook the Yogurt Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low simmer; pour in the yogurt mixture slowly while whisking continuously. Cook until thickened while whisking constantly for about one minute.

Step 8: Prepare the Spicy Olive Oil

In a small skillet over medium heat, warm extra virgin olive oil. Stir in Aleppo pepper flakes; gently swirl until it turns amber color. Remove from heat.

Step 9: Assemble and Serve

Assemble baked meatballs in shallow bowls; pour yogurt sauce over them. Top with pickled red onions if desired. Drizzle spicy olive oil over everything before serving.

How to Serve Turkish Meatballs

Turkish Meatballs in Yogurt Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Fluffy Rice: Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up the yogurt sauce.
• Pilaf Style: Consider adding spices like cumin and coriander to your rice for an aromatic twist.

With Bread

• Crusty Bread: Pair the meatballs with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the yogurt sauce.
• Pita Pockets: Stuff meatballs into pita bread along with fresh veggies for a fun, handheld meal.

On a Salad

• Fresh Green Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with the meatballs and drizzle with yogurt sauce for a lighter option.
• Mediterranean Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a vibrant side that complements the flavors of the dish.

Topped with Pickled Red Onions

• Bright Flavor: Add pickled red onions on top for a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy yogurt sauce.

How to Perfect Turkish Meatballs

To achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful Turkish Meatballs, follow these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices significantly enhance flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meat mixture gently to keep the meatballs tender. Overworking can make them tough.
• Keep Size Consistent: Form meatballs of uniform size (about 2 tablespoons each) for even cooking throughout.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked meatballs to rest briefly before serving. This helps retain moisture and flavors.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; they can elevate your Turkish Meatballs immensely.

Best Side Dishes for Turkish Meatballs

Complementing your Turkish Meatballs with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Couscous Salad: A light salad made with couscous, fresh herbs, and lemon dressing adds a refreshing touch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring out their sweetness and pair well with rich flavors.
3. Hummus: Serve alongside creamy hummus for dipping. It adds texture and balances out the spices in the meatballs.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini offers a healthy and tasty contrast.
5. Tabbouleh Salad: This parsley-based salad brings brightness and freshness that complements hearty meat dishes.
6. Garlic Yogurt Dip: A tangy garlic yogurt dip mirrors flavors from the main dish while adding creaminess.

These sides will ensure your Turkish Meatball dinner is a hit!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkish Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Using dry bread: Ensure your bread is soaked well. This keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
• Overmixing the meat mixture: Gently mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to taste your mixture before forming meatballs. Season generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
• Ignoring the yogurt sauce: Be careful when adding the yogurt mixture to the broth. Whisk continuously to avoid curdling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Turkish Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkish Meatballs

• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkish Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or water and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground lamb in Turkish Meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground lamb or a mix of beef and lamb for richer flavor.

What can I serve with Turkish Meatballs?

Serve these meatballs with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my Turkish Meatballs are done?

They should be browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. A meat thermometer should read 160°F.

Can I make Turkish Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until needed.

Final Thoughts

Turkish Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any dinner occasion. You can customize them with different spices or serve them with various sides. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Turkish Meatballs in Yogurt Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Turkish Meatballs in Yogurt Sauce, a dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your table. These tender, spiced meatballs are perfectly complemented by a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce infused with Aleppo pepper. Ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to make but also offers impressive presentation. The addition of pickled red onions adds a vibrant crunch, making every bite a unique culinary experience. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this flavor-packed dish that is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 slice bread
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or beef and lamb mix)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon Urfa Biber
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (plus more for later)
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• pickled red onions (optional, to serve)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Toast and soak the bread until soft; wring out excess water and tear into pieces.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine soaked bread with ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, egg, and spices. Mix gently.
4. Form the mixture into uniform meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
6. For the yogurt sauce: Whisk together cornstarch mixed with water, then combine with Greek yogurt and seasonings in a saucepan with simmering broth until thickened.
7. Prepare spicy olive oil by warming olive oil with Aleppo pepper flakes until fragrant.
8. Serve meatballs topped with yogurt sauce and drizzle with spicy olive oil; add pickled red onions for garnish if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 meatballs (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg