Turkey Ball Recipe for Air Fryer: A Healthy and Delicious Snack

Turkey balls are a versatile, protein-packed dish that can serve as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Preparing them in an air fryer ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior without the excess oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep-fried options. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make turkey balls in the air fryer, covering everything from preparation to nutrition, along with essential tips to perfect your cooking technique.

Air fryer turkey balls are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful yet healthy dish. These turkey balls are seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, then cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a party, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea, this recipe is a winner. Plus, turkey is a lean source of protein, making these air-fried turkey balls both nutritious and satisfying.

This recipe is beginner-friendly, quick, and packed with flavors, and the air fryer ensures a perfect crisp texture while keeping the inside moist and tender.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American, Healthy, Snack
• Course: Appetizer, Main Course
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Baking sheet (optional for shaping)

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Ingredients

For the Turkey Balls:

• 1 lb (500g) ground turkey
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crispiness)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)

Optional Dipping Sauce:

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly using a spatula or clean hands until well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the turkey balls tough.

Step 2: Shape the Turkey Balls

1. Scoop out approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form evenly-sized balls.
2. Place the shaped balls onto a baking sheet or plate.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Balls

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Place the turkey balls in the basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The internal temperature of the turkey balls should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once cooked, transfer the turkey balls to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them tender.
2. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as the quick Greek yogurt-based sauce provided above.

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Uniform Size: Ensure all turkey balls are of the same size to cook evenly.
2. Add Moisture: If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or olive oil.
3. Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
4. Alternative Coatings: Use crushed cornflakes or seasoned flour instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place uncooked turkey balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding 5-7 minutes to the cook time.
• Reheating: Warm cooked turkey balls in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or until heated through.

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Why Choose Turkey Balls in the Air Fryer?

• Healthier Option: Minimal oil is needed compared to frying.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, add vegetables like grated zucchini, or experiment with different cheeses.
• Kid-Friendly: Mild and flavorful, turkey balls are a hit with kids and can be paired with marinara sauce or ketchup for added fun.

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Conclusion

This Turkey Ball Recipe for Air Fryer is an easy, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with a modern twist. Perfect for any occasion, these turkey balls are flavorful, crispy, and nutritious, making them an excellent addition to your meal rotation. Try this recipe today and enjoy the guilt-free goodness of air-fried turkey balls!