Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a wholesome, vibrant, and utterly delicious meal, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe. It’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors wrapped up in a simple but hearty bowl. Juicy, seasoned meatballs baked to perfection pair beautifully with a cool and creamy tzatziki, fluffy rice, and a crunchy medley of fresh veggies. This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that brings comfort and freshness together in every bite. Let me guide you through making your new favorite Greek-inspired feast!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a unique role in crafting the perfect balance of taste and texture in this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe. From the spices that awaken the meatballs to the fresh veggies that add crispness, each component is essential and straightforward.

• 1 lb ground beef (or lamb, or chicken): This is the flavorful base for your juicy meatballs; lamb adds a richer touch if you want to switch it up.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender without falling apart.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, sharp note that complements the meat beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic depth into the meatballs.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley): Adds bright herby freshness to the mix.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A signature Greek herb that brings that authentic Mediterranean vibe.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides warmth and a subtle earthy complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a gentle citrusy flavor that wakes up the palate.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a slight kick to the meatballs.
• 1 egg: Another binding agent that ensures your meatballs stay moist and intact.
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat): The creamy base for the tzatziki sauce that cools and complements the meatballs.
• 1/2 cucumber, finely grated: Adds refreshing crunch and moisture to the tzatziki.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the tzatziki with a zesty tang.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Gives the tzatziki its signature garlicky punch.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill): Infuses the sauce with a classic herby flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To perfect the tzatziki seasoning.
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine rice): The base layer that makes the bowl hearty and satisfying.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Add bursts of sweet acidity.
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced: Provides cooling crunch against the warm meatballs.
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a slight sharpness and color contrast.
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced (optional): Bring a briny, salty complexity if you choose to include them.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• Lemon wedges (optional): Squeeze over for an extra zesty finish.

How to Make Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Let’s start by warming up your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your meatballs bake evenly and won’t stick. This simple setup helps ensure a perfect bake with minimal cleanup!

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and egg. Your hands are the best tool here—mix everything until evenly incorporated but don’t overwork the meat or meatballs might turn tough. This flavorful mixture is the heart of your Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Take portions of the mixture and roll them into 1 1/2 inch meatballs using your palms. Place them neatly on the prepared baking sheet so they have space around for even cooking. These bite-sized bundles of flavor are about to become the star of your bowl.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. To be safe, the internal temperature should hit 165°F (75°C). You’ll know they’re ready when they’re browned outside yet still juicy inside—pure comfort food vibes!

Step 5: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs bake, whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh dill in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Refrigerate this cool, creamy sauce until it’s time to serve. The tzatziki perfectly balances rich meatballs with its fresh, tangy notes.

Step 6: Cook and Prepare the Rice

If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to the package instructions. Whether you choose jasmine’s floral fragrance, brown rice’s nutty texture, or simple white rice, it forms the perfect base for this bowl. Leftovers work just as well—just warm them up before assembling.

Step 7: Prep the Fresh Veggies

Slice your cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber and red onion, and, if desired, chop the Kalamata olives. These veggies bring a fresh and crunchy element that contrasts beautifully with the tender meatballs and creamy tzatziki. Freshness in every bite!

Step 8: Assemble Your Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

Start each bowl with a generous scoop of rice, then layer on several meatballs. Add in the fresh veggies and olives if you’re using them. Drizzle or dollop the tzatziki sauce on top—don’t be shy here! This assembly makes each bite a perfect harmony of warm, cool, soft, and crisp.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy

Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon. That little squeeze of lemon juice just before eating adds an irresistible brightness that lifts all the flavors. Now, dig in and enjoy the vibrant taste and wholesome goodness of this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe!

How to Serve Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic choice and adds color and herbaceous fragrance, but you can also sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese if you want an extra layer of tanginess. Lemon wedges are great to have on the side, as a little squeeze brightens the whole dish with a fresh citrus pop.

Side Dishes

This bowl is a meal by itself, but if you want to add more, consider serving it alongside warm pita bread to mop up extra tzatziki or a light Greek salad with olives, feta, and crisp cucumbers. Roasted eggplant or zucchini would also pair beautifully without overshadowing the star components.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to jazz things up for guests or weekday family dinners, serve the meatballs on skewers over the rice and veggies for a fun, handheld option. Or create mini bowls as appetizers by arranging smaller portions in cute little dishes—great for parties or when entertaining!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatballs, tzatziki, rice, and veggies separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the tzatziki separate ensures it stays fresh and creamy without blending into the other components prematurely.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked meatballs by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep nicely for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze rice and tzatziki separately for quality reasons—tzatziki tends to separate when frozen.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Rice can be steamed or microwaved with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Serve the tzatziki fresh from the fridge as reheating can affect its texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground lamb adds a traditional richness, chicken makes it lighter, and beef is a great all-around choice. Feel free to experiment based on your preference.

Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki?

If you can’t find Greek yogurt, plain yogurt strained through a cheesecloth for several hours can work well. The key is to have a thick, creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian twist, try swapping the meatballs with falafel or chickpea patties. Pair with the same tzatziki, rice, and fresh veggies for a delicious alternative.

How long can I prepare the components in advance?

You can make the meatballs and tzatziki up to a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Veggies are best sliced fresh but can be prepped a few hours in advance.

Can I adjust the tzatziki sauce to be less garlicky?

Definitely! Garlic strength varies, so start with less and add more to taste. You want the garlic to complement rather than overpower the other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that fills your plate with vibrant colors, textures, and flavors. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a staple in your recipe rotation. Grab your ingredients, roll up those meatballs, and treat yourself to something truly special tonight!

Print