These Air Fryer Ground Turkey Meatballs are a tasty and healthy choice for dinner. Made with lean ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and spices, they’re full of flavor and cook up perfectly!
What I love about these meatballs is how quick they are to make. Just mix, shape, and air fry! Plus, they make great leftovers for lunch. It’s a win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: It’s lean and healthier than beef. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can substitute with ground chicken or even lean ground beef, though cooking times may vary.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor. If you don’t have these, use plain breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of Italian seasoning or try crushed crackers as an alternative for a crunchier texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides a nice salty flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can work well, or for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness and color. If you’re not a fan, try substituting it with fresh basil or cilantro. Dried herbs can also be used, but use less, as they’re stronger in flavor.
How Do I Make Meatballs That Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Making juicy meatballs is all about the mix! Combine your ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs. Here’s how to ensure they’re packed with flavor:
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl without overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Add a small amount of milk or broth for moisture, especially if your turkey is extra lean.
- Shape the meatballs with wet hands. It makes it easier to prevent sticking.
Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking can make them dry. The golden brown color and internal temperature of 165°F indicate they’re ready!
How to Make Air Fryer Ground Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
- Olive oil spray (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time mixing the ingredients, shaping the meatballs, and then air frying them to perfection. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly blended and well combined.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the meatballs evenly.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Taking a portion of the turkey mixture, shape it into meatballs that are about 1.5 inches in diameter. Feel free to adjust the size based on your preference. Make sure they are all roughly the same size so they cook evenly!
4. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to help prevent sticking. This little step makes a big difference!
5. Cook the Meatballs:
Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches if you have a smaller air fryer. Air fry the meatballs for about 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes them extra delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with extra parsley if you like! They’re great with dipping sauces or as part of a tasty meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even pork. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content and moisture level of the meat you choose. Always ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even oats as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. Just make sure to adjust the quantity slightly, as different substitutes may absorb moisture differently!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can air fry them again at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatballs as directed and then refrigerate them before cooking. They can be made a day in advance, which helps the flavors to develop even more. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying for best results.
