Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Name: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey (85/15); 10 Ritz crackers, crushed; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/2 small onion, finely diced; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 23, 2025

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Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a game-changer for anyone who loves a hearty meal without the added guilt. Picture this: juicy meatballs that are not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to whip up, perfect for those busy weeknights. You can throw them together with a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, when air-fried, they have that delightful crispy exterior while remaining moist inside. It’s like getting the best of both worlds! Whether you serve them as a classic meal with spaghetti and marinara, or enjoy them as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce, they’re bound to impress everyone at your table. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking, so you can experience the joy of making these delicious meatballs!

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Healthy Cooking Made Easy

Enjoy a classic comfort food without the guilt. These Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are leaner than traditional versions but don’t skimp on flavor. You can indulge in a satisfying dish that brings all the goodness to your plate.

Quick & Simple Recipe

Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With just a few steps, you can have a meal ready in no time. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with family.

Flavorful & Juicy

Packed with herbs, spices, and real flavor, these meatballs are a hit! Each bite bursts with flavor, keeping everyone coming back for seconds—trust me, they won’t last long!

What are Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air fryer turkey meatballs are a leaner version of traditional meatballs, made with ground turkey and combined with savory ingredients. Cooked in an air fryer, they offer a crispy exterior and juicy interior without the need for excessive oil. This technique not only speeds up the cooking process but also makes cleanup a breeze, so you can enjoy your meal without the stress.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

To make these delicious Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey (85/15)
10 Ritz crackers, crushed
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/2 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

These ingredients come together to create a mixture that’s rich in taste and easy to work with, making your cooking experience enjoyable.

How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, crushed Ritz crackers, parsley, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. This step is vital as it helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Roll the Meatballs

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out the turkey mixture and roll it into 2 tbsp-sized balls. Place the rolled meatballs onto a baking sheet. This part is fun and gives you the satisfaction of seeing your hard work take shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your meatballs cook evenly, achieving that perfect crispy crust.

Cook the Meatballs

Once preheated, arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). It’s always essential to check for doneness so you can enjoy them safely.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, or enjoy them without sauce! Your Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are ready to shine at your dinner table.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spaghetti and marinara for a classic meal. Simply add the meatballs to a bed of pasta, and you’ve got a comforting dish ready in minutes.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for snacking. Whether it’s a zesty dipping sauce or a sweet one, they make great bites for gatherings.
Place on a sub roll for a delicious turkey meatball sandwich. Add some cheese and lettuce for a satisfying lunch option.

Tips for Success

Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. This way, they will cook evenly and be done at the same time.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Air needs to circulate around the meatballs for them to crisp up perfectly.
Adjust seasonings based on personal preference for flavors. Don’t be afraid to taste and tweak to your liking!

Variations

Spicy Turkey Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a kick. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat!
Herbed Variations: Incorporate different herbs like basil or oregano to diversify flavors. They can really change the profile of your meatballs.
Cheesy Turkey Meatballs: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for extra richness. Who doesn’t love a cheesy bite?

Storage Tips

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a quick meal or snack later!
Freeze fully cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave for a fast meal anytime.

Pairing Ideas

Pair with a side salad for a nutritious meal. Fresh vegetables complement the meatballs beautifully.
Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. Adding some color and variety to your plate makes it more appealing.
Enjoy with garlic bread for an Italian-inspired feast. There’s just something about garlic bread that makes everything better!

FAQs

Can I use lean ground turkey for this recipe?
Yes, lean ground turkey (85/15) is ideal for juicy meatballs.
What sauces go best with turkey meatballs?
Marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, or even sweet and sour sauce work great.
Can I cook these meatballs in the oven instead?
Certainly! Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 20-25 minutes with a light spray of oil.
How can I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer?
Always spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray before cooking.
Can these meatballs be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs—it’s just as tasty!

Enjoy the perfect air fryer turkey meatballs that are not only delicious but easy to prepare and customize. With their rich flavor and healthy profile, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Try them with various sauces and sides to keep mealtime exciting!

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Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs