Description
This loaded Greek meatball bowl with creamy tzatziki and rice is a vibrant, hearty dish that brings together the best Mediterranean flavors in one wholesome meal. Juicy herb-seasoned meatballs, fluffy rice, crisp veggies, tangy feta, and refreshing tzatziki sauce make this recipe both satisfying and nourishing. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual gathering where you want to serve something colorful and customizable.
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs ground turkey, chicken, beef, or lamb
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½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan or crumbled feta
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1 large egg, lightly beaten
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh dill or oregano, chopped
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon cumin
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
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3 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
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1 cup Greek yogurt
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½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
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1 clove garlic, finely minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl Toppings:
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cucumber, diced
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½ red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
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½ cup crumbled feta cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan or feta, egg, garlic, parsley, dill/oregano, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
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Roll mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs and place on a tray.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to the baking sheet.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
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While meatballs cook, prepare tzatziki sauce by mixing yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
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Assemble bowls by dividing rice among serving bowls. Top with meatballs, fresh veggies, olives, and crumbled feta. Add a generous dollop of tzatziki and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes