Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious meal that’s ready in minutes? Then look no further! This air fryer turkey meatballs recipe is your answer. These juicy, flavorful meatballs are surprisingly easy to make and offer a fantastically healthy alternative to traditional, heavier versions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a delightful appetizer for a gathering, these turkey meatballs are guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its simplest and tastiest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher recommended)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 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
- Your favorite marinara sauce, for serving (homemade or store-bought)
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. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, form the turkey mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 3: Preheat and Cook
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°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 are not overcrowded. This allows for proper air circulation and even browning. 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 nicely browned. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the air fryer turkey meatballs immediately with your favorite marinara sauce, pasta, or a side salad. These are equally delicious on their own as a healthy snack or appetizer.
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 and less greasy meatballs.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Ensure proper air circulation for even cooking and browning. Work 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 meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatballs: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese along with the Parmesan.
- Herb-infused Meatballs: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 2-4g
This air fryer turkey meatballs recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that are also incredibly healthy. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!