Can I use a different type of bread for the breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! While sprouted grain bread adds a nutritional boost and hearty flavor, any whole wheat or multigrain bread works just fine. If you need a gluten-free version, gluten-free bread or even rolled oats can be substituted.

Can I bake these if I don’t have an air fryer?

Yes, and they’re still delightful! Simply line a baking sheet with parchment, arrange your meatballs with a bit of space between, and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping once halfway. You’ll get slightly less crispiness, but all the flavor.

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?

They’re fantastic for meal prep. Cook a batch at the start of the week, store in the fridge or freezer, and reheat as needed. They’re sturdy, reheat well, and fit right into salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

What’s the best way to keep these from sticking to the air fryer?

A light spray of avocado oil or other high-heat oil in your basket before adding the meatballs really helps. Cook in batches for best airflow and minimum sticking.

Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls Recipe

Description

Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls are a healthy, flavorful twist on classic meatballs, featuring lean ground turkey, aromatic herbs, sweet dried cranberries, and whole grain breadcrumbs. Quickly prepared in the air fryer, they offer a deliciously moist inside with a crisp exterior for a festive appetizer or protein-packed snack.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground turkey or chicken
4 slices dried Ezekiel or any sprouted grain bread, crumbled
1/2 small sweet onion, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup finely chopped dried cranberries
2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
2 large eggs, room temperature

Seasonings

1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Cooking

Avocado oil cooking spray

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey or chicken, crumbled Ezekiel bread, minced onion, chopped parsley, chopped dried cranberries, minced garlic, eggs, thyme, basil, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture into meatballs, forming about 20 evenly sized balls.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheat it for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy outsides.
Air Fry the Meatballs: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with avocado oil cooking spray. Place half of the meatballs in the basket, spacing them apart to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping each meatball after 10 minutes for even browning. Repeat with the remaining meatballs.
Bake in the Oven (Alternative Method): If using the oven, preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the meatballs about 1 inch apart. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping once halfway through until cooked through and golden.
Serve or Store: Enjoy the meatballs hot, or store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Substitute ground chicken for turkey if desired for a slightly different flavor profile.
Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispiness.
Leftover meatballs make a great meal prep option and can be reheated in the air fryer for best texture.
For gluten free, use certified gluten-free bread.
Fresh or homemade cranberry sauce can be used as a dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 5 meatballs
Calories: 210
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg