Description
Tender and juicy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with a lightly golden exterior, seasoned with garlic, parsley, and simple pantry spices. Ready in about 25 minutes for an easy weeknight meal, appetizer, or meal prep option.
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey (450g)
1 egg, lightly beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs (55g)
1 clove garlic, minced
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon chopped parsley, plus more for serving
Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Add the ground turkey, lightly beaten egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and chopped parsley to a large mixing bowl. Gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray.
- Divide the turkey mixture into 16 equal portions, approximately 35 grams or 1½ tablespoons each, and gently roll into smooth meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the meatballs from the air fryer, garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Avoid overmixing the turkey mixture to help keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
For an Italian-inspired variation, add dried oregano or Italian seasoning and finely grated Parmesan.
For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped chili.
Smoked paprika can be added for a smoky flavor.
Fresh basil, cilantro, or chives can replace or complement the parsley.
For gluten-free meatballs, substitute certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Cooked meatballs can be frozen in a freezer-safe container or bag, preferably in individual portions.
Reheat refrigerated meatballs in the air fryer at about 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated throughout.
Serve with pasta and marinara, rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, or a favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 13 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 235 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
