I love discovering recipes that are quick, healthy, and absolutely satisfying, and these air fryer turkey meatballs hit all the right notes. The first time I made them, I was amazed at how juicy and flavorful they turned out without having to heat up the oven or deep-fry anything. They have that perfect balance of lean protein, seasoning, and texture that makes every bite comforting and delicious.
Air fryers have completely changed the way I cook weeknight dinners. They give me the ability to make dishes like these turkey meatballs crisp on the outside while keeping them tender and moist inside, all in a fraction of the time. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze. If you’re looking for a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for meal prep, dinner, or even a snack, these meatballs are a must-try.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ground Turkey:
Using lean ground turkey keeps these meatballs healthy while providing a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with herbs and spices. I prefer dark and light meat combined for extra juiciness.
Breadcrumbs:
Breadcrumbs act as a binder to hold the meatballs together, keeping them from falling apart during cooking. I often use whole wheat for added fiber and texture.
Egg:
The egg works as a natural binder, ensuring that each meatball maintains its shape while adding a subtle richness.
Garlic:
Fresh garlic gives the meatballs a fragrant, savory depth. I like to mince it finely so every bite has just the right amount of garlicky flavor.
Onion:
Grated or finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness, preventing the meatballs from drying out while boosting flavor.
Parmesan Cheese:
Parmesan introduces a nutty, salty note that elevates the overall taste. A little goes a long way in enriching the meatballs.
Italian Seasoning:
This blend of herbs brings classic Italian flavors to the table without the need for multiple individual spices. It gives the meatballs a warm, aromatic profile.
Salt and Pepper:
Simple but essential. Seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper enhances all the other flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
Olive Oil Spray (Optional):
Lightly spraying the meatballs with olive oil ensures a golden, slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped or grated
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into evenly sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Uniform sizing helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This step ensures the meatballs start cooking immediately, giving them a nice sear on the outside.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray lightly with olive oil if desired. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that the meatballs are fully cooked but still juicy inside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meatballs hot with your favorite sauce, pasta, or as a protein-packed snack. They also freeze well for later meals.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overmix the turkey mixture; overworking can make meatballs dense.
- Uniform size matters for even cooking—use a small ice cream scoop for consistent portions.
- Optional cheese variety: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to brighten up the taste.
- Freezing tip: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray before storing in a ziplock bag to maintain shape.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well, but make sure it’s not too lean to prevent dryness.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes or until fully cooked.
How do I keep the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the basket with olive oil or use parchment paper designed for air fryers.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
How do I reheat leftover meatballs?
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through.