Easy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Name: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free work too); 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Ground turkey: You can substitute with ground chicken if you prefer.; Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch, or almond flour for a low-carb option.; Italian seasoning: Create your own blend with basil, oregano, and thyme.; Parmesan cheese: Feel free to skip this for a dairy-free version or add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

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Air fryer turkey meatballs recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a quick, healthy meal. These healthy meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile, fitting into various dishes like pasta, subs, or simply served with veggies.

The air fryer makes cooking these meatballs easy, ensuring they’re perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside. Plus, with the air fryer, you can whip up this easy air fryer recipe in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re aiming for a quick dinner or a healthy snack, these turkey meatballs have you covered.

Crispy Golden Turkey Meatballs Freshly Cooked in Air Fryer

Ingredients Needed

To make these tasty meatballs, you’ll need the following healthy ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free work too)
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:

Ground turkey: You can substitute with ground chicken if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch, or almond flour for a low-carb option.
Italian seasoning: Create your own blend with basil, oregano, and thyme.
Parmesan cheese: Feel free to skip this for a dairy-free version or add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Essential Cooking Equipment

To cook turkey meatballs properly, you’ll need:

ExcelSteel 5-Quart Stainless Steel Non Skid Base Mixing Bowl

Norpro, Set of 12 3042 Grip-EZ Measuring Cups & Spoons

How to Cook Turkey Meatballs in Air Fryer

Here’s a straightforward guide.

Prepare Ingredients: Finely grate the onion and mince the garlic.

Grating onion and mincing garlic for turkey meatballs

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.

Mixing ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, and seasonings

Form Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

Arrange Meatballs: Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.

Placing turkey meatballs in the air fryer basket

Cook Meatballs: Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooked turkey meatballs in an air fryer basket

Follow these air fryer cooking instructions for an easy recipe that is delicious and healthy.

Note: Ensure meatballs are of equal size for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.

Here is the Turkey Meatballs nutritional information:

Nutrition Facts

Per 4 meatballs (4 servings)

Amount % Daily Value*

Calories 220

Total Fat 10g 15%

Saturated Fat 2g 10%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 85mg 28%

Sodium 350mg 15%

Potassium 400mg 9%

Total Carbohydrate 10g 3%

Dietary Fiber 1g 4%

Sugars 1g

Protein 24g 48%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Cooking Tips for Better Results and Variations

I’m excited to share some cooking tips for getting the best results with your turkey meatballs, along with a few recipe variations.

Tips for the Best Results

Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave space between meatballs in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to try different herbs and spices. Adding a bit of chili powder can give your meatballs a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

Keto Turkey Meatballs: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to make your meatballs low-carb.
Paleo Meatballs: Use coconut flour or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, and ensure all seasonings are compliant with paleo guidelines.
Whole30 Adaptations: Skip the breadcrumbs and cheese. Use a compliant binder like mashed sweet potatoes or almond flour.

These tips and variations can help you create the perfect meatballs tailored to your dietary needs.

How to Store and Reheat Turkey Meatballs

Knowing how to store meatballs and the proper reheating instructions can help maintain their flavor and texture.

Storing Turkey Meatballs

Refrigerator: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Place meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Turkey Meatballs Reheating Instructions

Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

Following these methods ensures your meatballs stay juicy and flavorful even after being stored.

What to Serve with Air Fried Turkey Meatballs

Turkey meatballs served with marinara sauce and parsley

Now, let’s talk about some serving suggestions to complete your meal. Here are a few meal ideas that can help you enjoy your turkey meatballs in different ways.

Turkey Meatballs Serving Suggestions:

Marinara Sauce: Serve your meatballs with a classic marinara sauce. It’s a perfect pairing that complements the flavor of the meatballs.
Over Pasta: Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta and sauce for a hearty meal.
Sub Sandwiches: Place meatballs in a hoagie roll with marinara sauce and cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
Paired with Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Low-Carb Options: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

These meal ideas provide versatility, allowing you to enjoy your meatballs in various ways that suit your dietary preferences.

Enjoy cooking and savoring these healthy and delicious meatballs!

FAQs about Air Fryer Cooking Instructions

How long to cook turkey meatballs in air fryer?

Cook turkey meatballs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Ensure they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can you freeze turkey meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze turkey meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of ground turkey?

You can use ground chicken, beef, or pork instead of ground turkey. Each option offers a different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference and dietary needs.

How can I make my turkey meatballs more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of turkey meatballs, add fresh herbs, grated Parmesan, or spices like paprika and cumin. Using minced onion and garlic also boosts the taste significantly.

Is it healthier to cook meatballs in an air fryer?

Yes, cooking meatballs in an air fryer is healthier as it requires less oil compared to traditional frying. This method reduces fat content while still providing a crispy texture.

Why You Should Try Air Frying Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. They are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights. These easy recipes offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried meatballs.

Packed with protein and flavor, they fit well into various healthy meals. From pasta dishes to low-carb options, their versatility is unmatched. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit different dietary needs, like keto or paleo.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious meatballs. Feel free to experiment with seasonings and variations to find your favorite combination.