Craving a healthy, quick, and delicious meal? These Lean Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are perfect. You’ll love how simple they are to make and how wonderfully versatile they are for various meals, fitting perfectly into your Healthy Air Fryer Recipes collection.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Turkey: Use 93% lean for the best texture and leanness.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular breadcrumbs work. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Egg: Acts as a binder. For an egg-free option, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes).
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano are key flavors. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lean turkey (93% lean or higher)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Spices:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Servings: 4 (approx. 16-18 meatballs)
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 calories
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, air fryer
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, almond milk, and olive oil. This is where your flavors start to come together for these Healthy Air Fryer Recipes.
2. Season the Meatball Mix
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Gently mix everything until just combined; overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form Your Meatballs
Roll the mixture into uniform 1.5-inch meatballs. Aim for consistency so they cook evenly in your air fryer.
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures a crispy exterior for your turkey meatballs.
5. Air Fry the Meatballs
Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). You’re almost ready to enjoy your delicious Healthy Air Fryer Recipes!
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Herbaceous: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or basil.
- Cheesy: Mix in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Use a touch of grated ginger and a splash of soy sauce (or tamari) in the mix, then glaze with teriyaki sauce after cooking.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Lean Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through. These also freeze well; place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is an excellent substitute for this Healthy Air Fryer Recipe. The cooking time should remain similar.
How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil before adding the meatballs.
Can I bake these meatballs instead?
Absolutely! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
What can I serve these turkey meatballs with?
They are versatile! Serve them with pasta, zucchini noodles, a fresh salad, in a wrap, or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
Why are my meatballs dry?
Overmixing the meat mixture or overcooking can lead to dry meatballs. Make sure to mix gently and cook until just done.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. This makes meal prep simple for Healthy Air Fryer Recipes.
