There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of turkey and cranberries. It always reminds me of Thanksgiving, with that warm, cozy feeling when everyone gathers around the table. A few years ago, I wanted to capture that flavor in a fun and easy way, so I decided to whip up some turkey meatballs with a fruity twist. The result? Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls! These little delights are juicy, flavorful, and oh-so simple to make. Plus, they’re guilt-free, thanks to my trusty air fryer!
What I love about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or a game day snack, these turkey balls fit right in. And guess what? The cranberries add a burst of tartness that perfectly complements the savory turkey. I promise, once you try these, you’ll want to make them a staple in your kitchen—and they’re sure to impress your family and friends!
What’s in Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls?
- Ground turkey: This lean protein is the heart of our recipe. I always opt for organic if I can find it, as it makes a huge difference in flavor! You could also use ground chicken if you prefer.
- Fresh cranberries: Chopped cranberries are the star here! They add a lovely sweetness and a pop of color to the turkey balls. If fresh isn’t available, you can use dried cranberries, but reduce the sugar in your sauce.
- Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian or seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but regular will work in a pinch. They help hold the turkey balls together and add texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely nuttiness and creaminess to these turkey balls. It’s a must-have for flavor!
- Green onion: Finely chopped green onions give these turkey balls a delightful crunch and a fresh flavor. You can also use regular onion if that’s what you have on hand.
- Fresh parsley: I love adding fresh herbs for that vibrant taste. Parsley brightens up the mix and gives it a beautiful color.
- Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring that your turkey balls hold their shape during cooking.
- Garlic powder & onion powder: These spices add depth of flavor without being overpowering. They’re essential for that savory goodness!
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together. Adjust to your taste!
- Olive oil spray: A light spray will keep the turkey balls from sticking to the air fryer and give them a nice golden finish.
- Optional: Flaky sea salt: For garnish, this adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor when you take a bite.
Are Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls Good for You?
You bet! These turkey balls are not only delicious but also quite nutritious. The ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which is great for muscle building and keeping you full. The fresh cranberries are packed with antioxidants and are known to support heart health. Plus, you’re getting a bit of fresh herbs with the parsley and green onion, adding those necessary nutrients and vitamins.
Of course, moderation is key with Parmesan cheese if you’re watching your sodium intake, but trust me, a little goes a long way in delivering flavor. If you want to lighten them up even more, try substituting the breadcrumbs with ground oats or a gluten-free alternative. You can easily serve these turkey balls with a tangy dipping sauce or cranberry sauce for that sweet-salty combination. With these options, you can enjoy the festive flavors without any guilt!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for cooking)
- Optional: Flaky sea salt (for garnish)
How to Make Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls?
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped cranberries, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined; try not to overmix, or your turkey balls will be tough!
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This is key for even cooking!
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a plate.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the turkey balls in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. You want them to crisp up nicely!
- Cook the turkey balls in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through to achieve an even golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the turkey balls and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor!
- Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Thoughts on Your Festive Turkey Balls
- You can make these turkey balls ahead of time and freeze them. Just pop them into a freezer bag and store for up to three months!
- To reheat, air fry from frozen for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Perfect for those busy days!
- Want to change it up? Try adding some spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick.
- You can serve these turkey balls as an appetizer, main dish, or toss them into a festive salad for a pop of flavor!
So there you have it—my delightful Air Fryer Cranberry Turkey Balls. I genuinely invite you to try this recipe at home. I’d love to know how they turn out for you! Don’t forget to share your variations and serve these delicious bites at your next gathering. Happy cooking, friends! 🍽️✨
