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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as meatballs. Traditionally made with ground beef or pork, meatballs are typically rich in flavor but can also be high in fat and calories. Enter turkey meatballs—a nutritious alternative that allows you to indulge in this classic dish while making healthier choices. Ground turkey is not only lower in fat than its red meat counterparts, but it's also packed with high-quality protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Discover the joy of cooking with Turkey Delight Meatballs, a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs that still delivers on flavor. Made with lean ground turkey, these meatballs are packed with protein and can be easily air-fried for a crispy finish. This simple recipe guides you through essential ingredients like whole wheat breadcrumbs and fresh herbs, ensuring delicious results every time. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, they offer versatility for any occasion, making healthy eating delightful!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1/4 cup marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions
 

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion, beaten egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.

      Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, form the turkey mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should yield about 18-20 meatballs.

        Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or coat it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

          Air Fry the Meatballs: Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown.

            Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey meatballs from the air fryer and serve them hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

              Enjoy: These turkey meatballs make a great appetizer, snack, or meal served over pasta or in a sub sandwich!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4