Go Back
In the realm of quick and healthy meals, air fryer recipes have carved out a significant niche, offering a way to enjoy classic dishes with a fraction of the fat. Among these, Savory Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce stand out for their ease of preparation and fantastic flavor. This dish not only caters to health-conscious individuals but also satisfies those seeking comfort food. With a blend of lean turkey, fresh herbs, and a rich marinara sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation process, and the delightful nuances that make this dish a must-try.

Savory Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

Discover the deliciousness of Savory Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce! This quick and healthy dish combines lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and a rich marinara sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With easy preparation and a crispy exterior from the air fryer, these meatballs are sure to please everyone. Elevate your meals with this delightful recipe and enjoy a comforting yet nutritious feast at home!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 large egg, beaten

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup milk (or chicken broth)

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the meatball mixture to ensure optimal cooking.

    Combine the Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, mix together the ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and milk. Stir gently until the ingredients are just blended, being careful not to over-knead the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.

      Shape the Meatballs: Using clean hands, scoop out approximately 1.5 tablespoons of the turkey mixture and roll it into a cohesive ball. Place the formed meatballs onto a plate or tray. Continue this process until all the mixture is shaped into roughly 20 meatballs.

        Cook the Meatballs: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer within the basket, ensuring there is some space between each to allow for even cooking (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time until they are fully cooked and have developed a golden, slightly crispy exterior.

          Prepare the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. For an added kick, consider stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes!

            Serve the Dish: Once the meatballs are cooked to perfection, carefully transfer them from the air fryer to a serving platter. Generously spoon the warm marinara sauce over the meatballs. Optionally, garnish with vibrant fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

              Enjoy Your Creation: Serve these delightful savory turkey meatballs with marinara sauce alongside a bed of spaghetti, in a finely toasted sub roll, or simply enjoy them alone as a satisfying appetizer!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4