Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? Tired of the same old routine? Then look no further! These juicy turkey meatballs, cooked to perfection in your air fryer, are the answer to your weeknight woes. Forget greasy, oven-baked versions; this recipe delivers tender, flavorful meatballs with minimal cleanup – a true win-win for busy cooks. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, promising a delicious and satisfying meal that's ready in minutes. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: ¼ cup finely chopped onion
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add the chopped onion now. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, gently roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 3: Preheat and Cook
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. If necessary, cook in batches.
Step 4: Air Fry the Meatballs
Cook the meatballs for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through and browned on all sides. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious air fryer turkey meatballs immediately. They're fantastic on their own, or you can enjoy them with your favorite pasta sauce, over zucchini noodles, in a hearty salad, or as part of a delicious sub.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs, resulting in tough meatballs.
- Use high-quality ground turkey: Leaner ground turkey will produce healthier, less greasy meatballs.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Italian Herb Meatballs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Create a small indentation in the center of each meatball and add a small piece of mozzarella or provolone cheese before cooking.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
These air fryer turkey meatballs are a healthy and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. They're quick, easy to customize, and perfect for busy weeknights. This homemade recipe provides a delicious and healthy alternative to takeout, offering a fantastic quick dinner idea for the whole family. Enjoy!