There’s something so cozy and deeply satisfying about a plate of meatballs. Maybe it’s the savory aroma that fills the kitchen, or the fact that they always manage to bring people together around the table. Either way, meatballs are the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate. And these sweet and spicy air fryer turkey meatballs? They take that warm, nostalgic comfort and kick it up a notch with a burst of flavor that’s a little sweet, a little tangy, and just the right amount of spicy.
I started making this version of turkey meatballs when I was searching for a healthier alternative to the traditional beef or pork meatballs I grew up with. I wanted something that would still be juicy and flavorful but a little lighter—and honestly, a lot easier to make on busy weeknights. That’s where the air fryer came in. I was skeptical at first, but the way it crisps up the outside while keeping the inside tender and moist is pretty magical. And when you toss those perfectly cooked meatballs in a glossy sauce made with chili sauce and apricot preserves? Absolute game changer.
These meatballs have quickly become a favorite in my house. They’re kid-approved, adult-approved, and they make amazing leftovers (if they last that long). Whether I’m serving them over rice, tossing them on a salad, or simply enjoying them straight from the bowl, they hit the spot every single time.
This recipe is also incredibly forgiving. Don’t have breadcrumbs? You can swap in oats or crushed crackers. Want it a little spicier? Just add a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’s the kind of flexible, no-stress recipe that fits perfectly into real life. And that’s what I love most about it. It doesn’t require a ton of ingredients or fancy skills—just a few minutes of prep and a little air fryer magic.
So if you’ve been looking for a new twist on meatballs that delivers bold flavor, wholesome ingredients, and weeknight-friendly ease, I’ve got you covered. Let’s make these sweet and spicy air fryer turkey meatballs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, but let’s break it down so you know exactly why you need to try it too.
It’s Incredibly Easy
First and foremost, this recipe is super simple to pull together. All the ingredients are common pantry staples—things you probably already have on hand like breadcrumbs, garlic powder, chili sauce, and apricot preserves. There’s no fancy prep involved, and the air fryer takes care of the heavy lifting. You can have these meatballs on the table in less than 30 minutes, which makes them perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend an hour in the kitchen.
Air Fryer = Less Mess + Perfect Texture
If you’ve never cooked meatballs in an air fryer before, prepare to be amazed. They cook evenly, crisp up beautifully on the outside, and stay juicy inside. No oil splatters, no turning them one by one on the stovetop—just pop them in the basket, shake once halfway through, and you’re done.
Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Let’s talk about the sauce. It’s only two ingredients, but wow—it packs a punch. The chili sauce brings tang and depth, while the apricot preserves add just the right amount of sweetness to balance it out. When that sticky glaze hits those savory meatballs, it’s pure magic. You get savory, sweet, spicy, and just a little tangy in every bite.
Healthier Without Compromise
By using lean ground turkey, we’re cutting down on saturated fat without losing any of the flavor. And because we’re air frying instead of pan-frying, we’re also minimizing added oils. It’s a meal you can feel good about serving—and eating—without it tasting like a compromise.
Family-Friendly and Meal Prep Approved
Kids love them, adults devour them, and they reheat like a dream. Make a double batch and stash some in the freezer for a quick lunch or dinner down the road. Whether you serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or even packed in lunchboxes, these meatballs fit seamlessly into all parts of your week.
Health Benefits
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how it balances comfort food vibes with wholesome ingredients. It’s rich in flavor, yes, but it’s also packed with nutrients—and that’s something I always appreciate when I’m feeding my family or prepping meals for the week.
Lean Protein Power
Ground turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein. In this recipe, we’re using the 93/7 version, which means you’re getting plenty of muscle-building protein without an overload of saturated fat. Each serving provides a solid dose of energy-sustaining nutrients to help you stay full and focused throughout your day.
Lower in Fat but Still Satisfying
Swapping traditional beef or pork for turkey significantly cuts back on fat, especially the less heart-friendly kinds. But thanks to the air fryer and a few smart ingredient additions (like a touch of olive oil and an egg), you won’t miss the richness at all. The meatballs come out juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Balanced Flavors Without Excess Sugar
You might raise an eyebrow at the idea of apricot preserves in the sauce, but here’s the thing: we’re only using a small amount, and it balances the tanginess of the chili sauce perfectly. Plus, since you’re making the sauce yourself, you can control how sweet you want it. No hidden sugars or overly processed glazes here—just a simple, clean combo of real ingredients.
Nutrient Boost from Herbs and Spices
We’re not just relying on salt and pepper to build flavor. This recipe includes dried parsley, garlic powder, and chili powder, all of which not only add taste but also bring some sneaky health benefits to the table. Garlic powder, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and parsley is full of antioxidants and vitamin K.
Portion Control Made Easy
These meatballs are perfectly sized for portion control, which is great if you’re keeping an eye on your macros or trying to eat mindfully. You can easily calculate how many you want to serve based on your nutritional needs, and because they’re so flavorful, a few go a long way.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Knowing how much time and effort a recipe will take is crucial when planning meals. That’s why I love how this one fits neatly into even the busiest schedules.
Total Time:
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings:
This recipe makes approximately 15–17 meatballs, which is enough to serve about 4 people as a main dish or 6–8 as an appetizer or snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 4 servings):
Calories: 310
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 450mg
This nutrition breakdown is based on four servings and includes the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use less sauce or serve the meatballs plain with a side of steamed veggies or a crisp salad.
Ingredients List
This recipe keeps things simple with easy-to-find ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already, which is always a win.
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93/7): Provides a lighter, leaner protein base while keeping the meatballs juicy.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- ¼–⅓ cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed): Gives the meatballs structure and helps them stay tender.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Just enough to keep everything moist and add richness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory umami flavor with a hint of tang.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle heat and brightness to the mix.
- 1 tbsp dried parsley: For a pop of color and a mild, herbaceous flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers bold, concentrated garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adds a gentle warmth that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup chili sauce: Tangy, tomato-based, and just a little spicy—this forms the base of our glaze.
- ¼ cup apricot preserves: Balances the heat and tang with natural sweetness.
These ingredients come together to create meatballs that are rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of sticky-sweet. If you want to double the recipe, it scales easily without any issues.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
The beauty of this recipe is how incredibly easy it is to follow. There’s no complicated prep work, and the air fryer does most of the heavy lifting. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just short on time, these step-by-step instructions will help you make the perfect sweet and spicy turkey meatballs every single time.
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Before anything else, set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F. Preheating your air fryer ensures the meatballs begin cooking immediately once placed inside, giving them a golden crust on the outside without overcooking the inside. Most air fryers only need about 3–5 minutes to preheat.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ¼–⅓ cup breadcrumbs (adjust depending on the moisture in your meat)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Try not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough. You’re aiming for a uniform mixture that holds together but isn’t overly compacted.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s easier to handle. It should feel slightly sticky but hold its shape when formed into balls.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the mixture into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 15 to 17 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.
Roll each portion gently between your palms to create smooth, even meatballs. Place them on a clean plate or parchment-lined tray as you go. If the mixture starts to stick to your hands, lightly wetting them with water can help.
Step 4: Prep the Air Fryer Basket
Spray your air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray. This step prevents the meatballs from sticking and helps the outside crisp up nicely during cooking.
Place the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each one. Avoid overcrowding; if your air fryer is on the smaller side, cook the meatballs in two batches to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry the Meatballs
Slide the basket into the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes. At the halfway point—around 4 to 5 minutes in—open the basket and shake it gently or use tongs to turn the meatballs. This helps them brown evenly on all sides.
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer is your best friend here. They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through but still moist inside.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
While the meatballs are cooking, combine the sauce ingredients in a small bowl:
- ½ cup chili sauce
- ¼ cup apricot preserves
Stir the mixture well until the preserves dissolve and everything is well combined. You don’t need to heat the sauce, but if you’d like it warm, you can gently heat it in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave it for 20–30 seconds.
This sweet and tangy sauce is what gives the meatballs their signature glaze and flavor. It clings beautifully to the crispy exterior and adds just the right contrast to the savory turkey.
Step 7: Toss the Cooked Meatballs in Sauce
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them immediately to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over them and gently toss to coat. The warmth of the meatballs will help the sauce cling and slightly caramelize around the edges.
You can also brush the sauce on with a basting brush for a more polished presentation, especially if you’re serving these as an appetizer or at a party.
Optional Step: Broil for Extra Glaze (Oven Method)
If you want an even stickier, caramelized finish, you can place the sauced meatballs under the broiler for 2–3 minutes. Just line a baking sheet with foil, arrange the sauced meatballs in a single layer, and broil until the glaze starts to bubble. Keep an eye on them—they go from golden to burnt fast.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the saucy meatballs immediately while they’re hot and juicy. They’re fantastic on their own or over a bed of rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad.
If you’re making these ahead for meal prep, allow them to cool before storing. They reheat beautifully and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
How to Serve
One of the great things about these turkey meatballs is how versatile they are. Whether you’re putting together a weeknight dinner or looking for the perfect party appetizer, they adapt easily to almost any situation.
As a Main Dish
- Serve the Air fryer turkey meatballs over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce and makes for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Try them over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Toss them with stir-fried vegetables or steamed greens for added nutrition.
As an Appetizer
- Insert toothpicks into each meatball and place them on a platter for easy serving at parties or potlucks.
- Offer a small bowl of extra sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a colorful finish.
In a Salad or Wrap
- Slice the meatballs and toss them into a crisp salad with cucumber, shredded carrots, and a light vinaigrette.
- Wrap them in a warm pita or flatbread with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
For Kids
- Serve with buttered noodles or mashed potatoes for a kid-friendly dinner.
- Tuck a few meatballs into a soft dinner roll for easy-to-hold sliders.
The flavor profile works beautifully in a variety of dishes, so don’t be afraid to get creative with how you serve them.
Pairing Suggestions
Even though these Air fryer turkey meatballs are packed with flavor on their own, pairing them with the right sides or beverages can elevate your meal even more. Here are a few pairing ideas to round out your dish and turn it into a truly satisfying experience.
Side Dish Ideas
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: A perfect neutral base that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Think carrots, bell peppers, and green beans roasted with a touch of garlic and olive oil.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes pair surprisingly well with the sweet and spicy glaze.
- Crunchy Slaw: A simple cabbage and carrot slaw with a tangy vinaigrette adds a cool, crunchy contrast.
Salads
- Arugula and Spinach Salad: A peppery arugula base with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Light, crisp, and refreshing—great for summer dinners.
- Asian-Inspired Slaw: Combine shredded cabbage, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
For a Crowd
- Serve with mini slider buns for build-your-own meatball sandwiches.
- Set up a meatball bar with different sauces like spicy sriracha mayo, herbed yogurt, and extra chili-apricot glaze.
- Offer a mix of white and brown rice, slaws, and fresh herbs so guests can build their own bowls.
Beverages
Since the Air fryer turkey meatballs recipe is halal, skip the wine and go for refreshing, non-alcoholic drinks:
- Sparkling water with lemon or lime slices
- Chilled hibiscus tea
- Mint lemonade
- A yogurt-based drink like mango lassi for a cooling contrast
With all these options, you can easily create a balanced, delicious meal around these flavorful meatballs.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the many things I love about this Air fryer turkey meatballs recipe is how well it stores and reheats. These sweet and spicy turkey meatballs are perfect for meal prep, make-ahead dinners, or simply saving leftovers for another day. Let’s go over how to store, freeze, and reheat them so they stay just as tasty as the day you made them.
How to Store in the Refrigerator
Once your meatballs have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. If they’ve already been tossed in the sauce, that’s totally fine—the sauce helps keep them moist.
- Storage Time: The meatballs will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Tip: If you have extra sauce, store it separately and add it just before reheating for an extra glossy finish.
How to Freeze for Later
If you want to freeze your Air fryer turkey meatballs, you have two great options: freeze them fully cooked (with or without the sauce), or freeze them raw and uncooked.
Option 1: Freeze Cooked Meatballs
This is my go-to method because it makes reheating quick and easy.
- Let the cooked meatballs cool completely.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze for 1 to 2 hours until firm.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
If you’ve already added sauce, they can still be frozen—just be sure to separate layers with parchment if storing in a container.
Option 2: Freeze Raw Meatballs
Freezing them raw gives you freshly cooked meatballs whenever you want.
- Roll the raw meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Cook from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 12 to 14 minutes, checking the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
How to Reheat
Reheating these Air fryer turkey meatballs is super easy, and you have a few options depending on your time and tools.
In the Air Fryer
- Preheat to 375°F.
- Place meatballs in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes until heated through.
- If reheating from frozen, cook for 8–10 minutes, checking halfway through.
In the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place meatballs in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 10–15 minutes.
- For a crispier finish, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking.
In the Microwave
- Place a few meatballs in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover loosely with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir or flip halfway through to ensure even heating.
Microwaving is the fastest method, but keep in mind that it may soften the exterior a bit. If texture is important, reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Air fryer turkey meatballs Recipe
Even though this recipe is beginner-friendly and pretty forgiving, there are a few common missteps that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for so your meatballs come out perfect every time.
1. Overmixing the Meat Mixture
This is one of the most common mistakes. When you mix the ingredients too vigorously, the proteins in the turkey can tighten up, resulting in dense, rubbery meatballs. Instead, mix just until everything is combined. A light hand goes a long way.
2. Not Preheating the Air Fryer
It may seem like a small detail, but preheating the air fryer really makes a difference. If you skip this step, the meatballs won’t get that beautiful outer crisp and may take longer to cook, risking dryness.
3. Overcrowding the Basket
Putting too many meatballs in the air fryer at once prevents air from circulating properly. This leads to uneven cooking and soggy sides. Make sure to leave space between each meatball, and cook in batches if needed.
4. Skipping the Sauce
The sauce is simple but powerful—it transforms these meatballs from tasty to absolutely irresistible. Don’t skip it! Even if you want to reduce the sugar content, try brushing on just a little for flavor and shine.
5. Undercooking or Overcooking
It’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the meatballs to make sure they’re fully cooked but not dried out. Aim for 165°F in the center. If you go much higher, the meat can start to dry out.
6. Using Too Many Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs are there to hold the meatballs together and keep them moist, but using too many can make them dry and cakey. Start with ¼ cup and only add more if the mixture is too sticky to shape.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll get consistently delicious, tender, and flavorful meatballs every single time.
Pro Tips
Want to take your Air fryer turkey meatballs from good to amazing? These pro tips will help you master this recipe like a seasoned home cook. They’re easy to follow but make a big difference in flavor, texture, and presentation.
Tip 1: Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniform Size
Using a cookie scoop ensures that all your meatballs are the same size, which means they’ll cook evenly in the air fryer. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking and gives a more polished final result.
Tip 2: Wet Your Hands When Rolling
Turkey meatball mixture can be a bit sticky. Lightly wetting your hands with water (or even a touch of oil) before rolling helps keep the mixture from sticking to your fingers and allows for smoother shaping.
Tip 3: Let the Mixture Rest Before Shaping
Letting the meatball mixture rest for just 5–10 minutes before shaping gives the breadcrumbs time to absorb the moisture, which helps the meatballs hold their shape better during cooking.
Tip 4: Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
While the recipe calls for dried parsley, you can easily elevate the flavor by adding chopped fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or thyme. Fresh parsley adds brightness and color that looks great for presentation too.
Tip 5: Customize the Heat Level
If you like more of a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or the meatball mixture. You can also substitute the chili sauce with sriracha or another favorite hot sauce for a bolder heat profile.
Tip 6: Double the Batch and Freeze
This recipe freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for later. You’ll thank yourself on those nights when you need a quick, delicious dinner with zero prep.
Tip 7: Serve With a Sauce Trio
If you’re entertaining or just want to mix things up, serve the meatballs with three sauces: the chili-apricot glaze, a tangy garlic yogurt sauce, and a spicy sriracha mayo. It makes for a fun, interactive meal or party spread.
With just a few simple tweaks and techniques, you can take this already fabulous recipe and make it uniquely yours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to a recipe like this one—simple, versatile, and oh-so-delicious—it’s no surprise that people have a few questions. Whether you’re making it for the first time or looking for ways to adjust it to fit your dietary needs, these FAQs will help you feel confident in the kitchen and ready to tackle this dish like a pro.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground chicken works just as well as ground turkey in this recipe and offers a similar lean profile. Just make sure to use ground chicken with a little fat content—don’t go for the ultra-lean kind, or you may end up with dry meatballs. The same rules apply: mix gently, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand or need a gluten-free option, there are plenty of substitutes you can try. Crushed gluten-free crackers, rolled oats, or even almond flour can work in a pinch. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on your substitute, but the flavor will still be amazing.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, and they’re perfect for meal prep. You can mix and shape the meatballs up to a day ahead and store them, covered, in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. You can also cook them fully and store them in the fridge for easy reheating later in the week.
Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Definitely. After shaping the raw meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to cook, you can air fry them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
How spicy is the sauce?
The chili-apricot sauce is more tangy and sweet than it is spicy. It has a gentle heat that’s usually well-tolerated by most people, including kids. If you prefer more spice, you can add a dash of hot sauce, some red pepper flakes, or use a spicy chili sauce.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, no problem. Preheat your oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake the meatballs for about 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. You won’t get quite the same crisp on the outside, but they’ll still be juicy and flavorful.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—and I recommend it if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers. Just be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the meatballs in batches to ensure even cooking and browning. The sauce also doubles easily, so you won’t need to make any special adjustments.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The safest and most accurate way to check is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of a meatball—once it reads 165°F, they’re good to go. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut one open; the inside should be fully cooked and no longer pink.
Is this Air fryer turkey meatballs recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Many parents have told me their kids love these meatballs, especially when served with rice or noodles. The sweetness from the apricot glaze makes them really appealing to younger taste buds. If you’re worried about spice, just reduce or skip the chili powder in the meatball mix and use a milder chili sauce.
Can I use store-bought sauce instead?
If you’re in a rush, yes—you can use a store-bought sweet chili sauce. However, the simple homemade version using chili sauce and apricot preserves really elevates the dish with its fresh, balanced flavor. It only takes a minute to stir together and is worth the small effort.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There you have it—sweet and spicy air fryer turkey meatballs that are easy to make, packed with bold flavor, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight, prepping meals for the week ahead, or putting together an appetizer spread for a gathering, these meatballs are the kind of recipe that always delivers.
They come together in under 30 minutes using ingredients you likely already have, and the air fryer makes them both healthier and faster to prepare. They’re tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and coated in that irresistibly sticky glaze that brings everything together in the most delicious way.
I love how this Air fryer turkey meatballs recipe strikes the perfect balance between comforting and clean, rich and refreshing. It’s comfort food you can feel good about, and that’s something truly special.
Now it’s your turn. Try these turkey meatballs for yourself, and don’t be afraid to make them your own. Add a little extra heat, try a new sauce, or serve them up in your favorite way. However you decide to enjoy them, I know they’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went for you! Leave a comment with your feedback or share your creation on social media and tag me—I always enjoy seeing your delicious photos and personal twists. Cooking is meant to be fun, flavorful, and full of little wins, and I hope this recipe brings you a few of those.
Thanks for cooking with me. Happy eating, and here’s to meatballs that never disappoint.
PrintAir Fryer Turkey Meatballs – Sweet, Spicy, and Easy to Make
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 15–17 meatballs (4 servings) 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Juicy, flavorful turkey meatballs made in the air fryer and coated in a sticky, sweet, and spicy glaze. A quick, healthy, and family-friendly dinner idea.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
-
1 lb lean ground turkey (93/7)
-
1 large egg
-
¼–⅓ cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
-
¼ cup grated parmesan
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
-
1 tbsp dried parsley
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
-
½ cup chili sauce
-
¼ cup apricot preserves
Instructions
-
Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
-
Mix all meatball ingredients in a bowl until just combined.
-
Form into 1.5-inch balls and place on a plate.
-
Spray air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
-
Arrange meatballs in a single layer; spray tops lightly.
-
Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
-
Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
-
Toss cooked meatballs in sauce and serve warm.
Notes
-
Wet your hands to make rolling meatballs easier.
-
For extra crispy glaze, broil sauced meatballs for 2–3 minutes in the oven.
-
These freeze beautifully—make a double batch for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American