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Plate of turkey meatballs garnished with herbs, showing a golden-brown finish.

Juicy Herb-Infused Turkey Meatballs

These tender, flavorful turkey meatballs are seasoned with fresh herbs and cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Pair them with pasta, serve them on a sandwich, or enjoy them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey 93% lean recommended
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian-style
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tbsp olive oil plus more for spraying
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 tbsp milk

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Prepare the Mixture
  1. In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, cooked onion and garlic mixture, fresh parsley, basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and milk.
  3. Using clean hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form and Cook the Meatballs
  1. Form the mixture into 16 equal-sized meatballs, approximately 1½ inches in diameter (about 2 tablespoons each).
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  3. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper (if desired) or lightly spray with olive oil. Place the meatballs in the basket, leaving some space between each one for air circulation.
  4. Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket or gently turning the meatballs halfway through cooking time. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
  5. Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

These meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based milk alternative. If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake these meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes. Serve with your favorite marinara sauce, on a sub sandwich, or over pasta for a complete meal.