Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The air fryer helps create meatballs with a perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy centers, all while reducing the need for excessive oil. The ground turkey offers a leaner alternative to traditional beef or pork, making these meatballs a healthier choice. Plus, they’re easy to make, cook in under 15 minutes, and are versatile enough to be served in various dishes. The recipe is also simple to customize with your favorite seasonings and ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (can use whole wheat or gluten-free)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for brushing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

5. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

6. Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even cooking.

7. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (should reach 165°F or 74°C).

8. Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 18-20 minutes (including prep and cooking time)

Variations

• Spicy Turkey Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for some heat.

• Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small piece of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of each meatball for a cheesy surprise.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the meatballs suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover turkey meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs in the air fryer for about 3-4 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds, depending on the size of the meatballs.

FAQs

1. Can I use lean ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef for the turkey in this recipe. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still yield delicious results.

2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage.

3. How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?

Consider adding extra spices, herbs, or even grated cheese to the mixture to enhance the flavor. Fresh garlic and onions also work well for a more intense taste.

4. Do I need to add oil for the air fryer?

Adding oil is optional, but it can help the meatballs crisp up. You can either brush them lightly with olive oil or spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray.

5. How can I tell when the meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

6. Can I freeze cooked turkey meatballs?

Yes, cooked turkey meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake or air fry them from frozen until heated through.

7. Can I bake these meatballs instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

8. What can I serve these meatballs with?

These meatballs pair well with pasta, in a sub roll, as part of a salad, or simply served with marinara sauce for dipping.

9. How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer?

To prevent sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil before adding the meatballs.

10. Can I make the meatballs smaller or larger?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the meatballs based on your preference. Just keep in mind that smaller meatballs will cook faster, while larger ones may require a longer cooking time.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a fantastic, healthier option for meatball lovers, offering a crispy exterior and juicy interior with minimal effort. Perfect for a variety of meals, from pasta to sandwiches, they’re versatile, quick, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and a short cook time, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.