Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in 30 Minutes

Name: Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 1, 2025

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Let me tell you, if you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious dish that won’t take up your whole evening, Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are the answer! These little gems are not just easy to whip up, but they cook up so quickly in the air fryer – we’re talking just 12 to 15 minutes. Can you believe it? In about half an hour, you can have a wholesome meal on the table that’s packed with protein and flavor!

What I love most about these turkey meatballs is how versatile they are. You can enjoy them on their own, with a side salad, or nestled in a whole-grain wrap. Plus, they’re low in fat and high in protein, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Trust me, these meatballs are so full of flavor, you won’t even miss the extra calories! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick dinner, these turkey meatballs will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So let’s get cooking!

Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make these scrumptious Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in ensuring that your meatballs are flavorful, moist, and satisfying:

1 pound ground turkey: Choose a lean variety for a healthier option. Ground turkey is high in protein and low in fat, making it the star of these meatballs.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together and add a nice texture. You can use whole wheat breadcrumbs for an even healthier twist!
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a lovely salty flavor and richness to the meatballs. You can use fresh or pre-grated, but fresh really elevates the taste.
1/4 cup chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness. It’s a simple way to brighten up the flavor profile!
1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic gives a wonderful depth of flavor. Don’t skip this—freshly minced garlic is always best for that punch!
1 egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to keep everything together while also adding moisture.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds that classic Italian flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference!
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking to really make those flavors pop.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to whipping up a batch of delicious turkey meatballs that everyone will love!

How to Prepare Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Ready to dive into making these Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs? It’s a straightforward process, and I promise, you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar once you get started! Let’s break it down step by step so you can enjoy these tasty morsels in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your meatballs cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown on the outside.
Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part—it’s the best way to make sure everything is mixed well. Just dive in and combine until you’ve got a uniform mixture!
Form the meatballs: Now it’s time to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. I usually make around 16 meatballs with this recipe, but feel free to adjust the size according to your preference. Just remember, smaller meatballs will cook faster!
Arrange in the air fryer: Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice crispiness. If you need to, you can cook them in batches!
Cook to perfection: Set your timer for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through cooking. This is key for that even browning! You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, just cut one open to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
Serve and enjoy: Once they’re cooked through, carefully remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. This helps the juices redistribute. Then, serve with your favorite marinara sauce or a dip of your choice. Enjoy the deliciousness!

And there you have it! These Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are not only easy to make but also a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinners. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that checks all the boxes, these Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are it! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Quick to make: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish.
Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese makes every bite a burst of flavor.
Health-conscious: Low in fat and high in protein, these meatballs fit perfectly into a balanced diet.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, in wraps, or as a snack with your favorite dip!

Trust me, once you try these turkey meatballs, they’ll be a regular in your meal rotation!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:

Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is well incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs!
Use a cookie scoop: For uniform meatballs, try using a cookie scoop. This ensures they cook evenly and look great on the plate.
Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices and herbs to your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick or extra garlic for more flavor!
Experiment with dips: These meatballs are delicious on their own but pair excellently with marinara, tzatziki, or even a yogurt-based dip!
Don’t skip resting: Letting the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking helps seal in the juices, making them even more tender and flavorful.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to meatball perfection in no time!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs, it’s always helpful to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving, which is typically four meatballs:

Calories: Approximately 200
Fat: 8g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Fiber: 1g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes. But overall, you can feel good about indulging in these tasty meatballs that pack a nutritious punch!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights ground turkey for its lean profile, you can easily switch things up. Ground chicken works just as well and offers a similar taste and texture. If you prefer beef, go for a lean variety to keep it healthier. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so always check for doneness!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing your delicious Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs is super easy! Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer or microwave!

What can I serve with these meatballs?

The options are endless! These Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your meal by serving them with marinara sauce for a classic pairing. They also shine in whole grain wraps with fresh veggies or on top of a bed of zoodles or whole grain pasta. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp side salad makes a perfect complement. Don’t forget to have your favorite dipping sauce on hand, whether it’s tzatziki, ranch, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs fresh and delicious, proper storage is key! Once they’ve cooled down, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 3-4 days, perfect for meal prep or leftovers. If you want to keep them longer, just freeze them! Layer the meatballs between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent sticking. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

When you’re ready to enjoy your meatballs again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook, as they might dry out. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear what you think about these Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs! Did you make any fun twists to the recipe? Or maybe you served them with a delicious dip? Please leave a comment below and share your experience—I’m always excited to read how you put your own spin on it! And if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to give it a rating and share it on your social media. Let’s spread the love for healthy cooking together!