These Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a game-changer! They’re juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Simply mix the ingredients, shape them into meatballs, and pop them in your air fryer. In just minutes, you’ll have a batch of perfectly cooked meatballs that are perfect for appetizers, pasta dishes, salads, or anything your heart desires.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and flavorful: These meatballs are made with lean ground turkey and packed with Italian-inspired flavors.
Quick and easy: They’re ready in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Air fryer convenience: No need to heat up your oven or stovetop! The air fryer cooks the meatballs to juicy perfection with minimal cleanup.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, with pasta, on salads, in sandwiches, or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create flavorful and healthy meatballs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey (85/15 or 93/7) for the best results.
Egg: Helps bind the meatballs and adds moisture.
Italian Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and texture.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
Chopped Italian Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
Water: Helps keep the meatballs moist.
Olive Oil: For added flavor and to prevent sticking.
Minced Garlic: Adds a pungent flavor.
Onion Powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Season the meatballs to perfection.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Meatball Mixture

Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, water, olive oil, minced garlic, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Use a cookie scoop or your clean hands to form 12 evenly-sized meatballs.

Step 3: Preheat and Cook

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey meatballs into the preheated air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each meatball for even cooking. Cook for 16-18 minutes, turning the meatballs at the halfway mark. The meatballs are done when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the turkey meatballs with your favorite sauce or as a topping for pasta, salads, casseroles, sandwiches, or anything that calls for meatballs.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Air fryer variations: If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply cook the meatballs for the maximum time listed, or until they reach a safe internal temperature.
Meatball size: Make sure the meatballs are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave some space between the meatballs in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

How to Serve Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Appetizer: Serve the meatballs with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, pesto, or aioli.
Pasta dishes: Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta and sauce.
Salads: Add the meatballs to your favorite salad for a protein boost.
Sandwiches: Use the meatballs to make meatball subs or sliders.
Casseroles: Add the meatballs to your favorite casserole recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs gently in the microwave, in the air fryer, or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can use ground beef, chicken, or pork instead of ground turkey.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

My meatballs are dry, what did I do wrong?
If your meatballs are dry, it could be that you overcooked them or didn’t add enough moisture to the mixture. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and add a little more water or broth to the mixture if needed.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. I hope you enjoy it!

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs Recipe