Looking for a nutritious, easy, and totally crave-worthy meal? These Zesty Herb Turkey Air Fryer Meatballs check all the boxes. They’re quick to put together, packed with flavor, and turn golden brown in just minutes inside the air fryer. Tender on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside—these meatballs are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- ½ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything by hand just until blended—overmixing can lead to tougher meatballs. Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of golf balls, and place them on a plate or sheet of parchment paper.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to help prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Give them a quick spritz of olive oil on top. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the meatballs are evenly browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, nestle them in a warm pita, or spoon them atop a bed of pasta.
Whether you’re watching calories, aiming for a protein boost, or simply wanting a fast dinner to please the family, these meatballs are a fantastic option. They’re lighter than beef-based versions and full of savory herb flavors. Substitutions like ground chicken or pork work equally well, and you can get creative with extra seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy them as a handy snack or slide them into your favorite tomato sauce for a more comforting meal. Simple, versatile, and delightfully delicious—these air fryer meatballs are bound to be a hit in your home.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
