Name: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned); 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

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The aroma of freshly cooked Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Picture this: golden-brown meatballs, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, smothered in a sweet-tart cranberry sauce that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that can elevate any meal from mundane to magical.

I can’t help but chuckle every time I recall the first time I attempted to impress my friends with my culinary skills. Spoiler alert: It was a disaster! But then I discovered the joy of making Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce—an effortless dish that never fails to wow guests and family alike. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

These delightful Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce are incredibly easy to whip up, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
The flavor explosion combines savory turkey with sweet cranberry, creating a perfect harmony.
Visually appealing and colorful, they make every plate pop!
Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course—your choice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce:

Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for healthier meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together.
Egg: A single egg acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color—plus it’s packed with nutrients!
Garlic Powder: This adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or canned cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart finish.

For the Sauce:

Honey: Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of cranberry sauce beautifully.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep your dish flavorful yet balanced in saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make it

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you are.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—no one likes overworked meatballs!

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1 inch). Try not to eat them raw; trust me on this one!

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Arrange meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce

While meatballs are cooking, mix cranberry sauce, honey, and soy sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until combined and warmed through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer cooked meatballs onto plates and drizzle generously with cranberry sauce. Serve warm and watch your guests swoon!

These scrumptious Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce are sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. You’ll find yourself daydreaming about them long after dinner is over!

You Must Know About Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

This amazing Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Cooking Process

The best cooking sequence begins with mixing your turkey meatball ingredients while preheating the air fryer. Shape the meatballs, then air fry them until golden brown. Finally, simmer the cranberry sauce to drizzle over those delicious meatballs.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or even beef! Experiment with spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs and toss in some chopped veggies or cheese for an extra kick of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes, ensuring they stay moist and warm.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

These tips will take your Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce from ordinary to extraordinary!
Remember, a little extra love goes a long way in this flavorful dish.

– Use lean ground turkey to keep your meatballs juicy without excess fat.

– Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each meatball space to breathe and crisp up perfectly.

– Always check doneness with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F to ensure safe eating without overcooking.

Sometimes, my friends rave about these turkey meatballs so much that I wonder if they’re just buttering me up for seconds!

FAQs

What is Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce?

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce is a delightful dish that combines lean turkey meatballs cooked to perfection in an air fryer, served with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This dish is not only healthier than traditional fried meatballs but also offers a burst of flavor that complements the savory turkey. The air fryer ensures that the meatballs remain juicy on the inside while achieving a crispy exterior. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress.

How do I make Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce?

To make Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce, start by mixing ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, and spices. Form the mixture into meatballs and preheat your air fryer. Cook the meatballs at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked. For the cranberry sauce, combine fresh or canned cranberries with sugar and water in a saucepan, simmering until thickened. Serve the cooked meatballs drizzled with this delicious sauce for a perfect meal.

Can I prepare Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce ahead of time. Make the meatball mixture and form them into balls; then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. You can also cook them in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in your air fryer for a few minutes before serving to retain their crispy texture. Prepare the cranberry sauce ahead as well for convenience.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce?

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving them over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables also complement this dish well. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. These sides balance out the sweetness of the cranberry sauce while enhancing your meal experience. For more inspiration, check out this Fluffy Air Fryer Churro Bites recipe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce is a deliciously healthy option that combines convenience and flavor. The air frying technique makes it easy to create juicy meatballs without excess oil while pairing perfectly with a vibrant cranberry sauce. This dish is versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s dinner or entertaining guests—and provides nutritional benefits without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this mouthwatering recipe as part of your culinary repertoire!