Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti

In the culinary landscape of quick and healthy meals, few dishes hold the comforting allure of spaghetti and meatballs. This ever-popular combination has transcended generations, often evoking memories of family dinners and hearty gatherings. However, in today’s health-conscious world, many are looking for ways to enjoy their favorite comfort foods without the guilt. Enter the Savory Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs & Spaghetti—a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition.

Discover a healthier spin on a classic favorite with Savory Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs & Spaghetti! This delightful recipe combines lean ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs for a flavorful twist on traditional meatballs. Using an air fryer not only cuts down on oil but also speeds up cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with taste and nutrition, this dish will satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Dive into the recipe for a heartwarming meal that's sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

For the Turkey Meatballs:

1 pound ground turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 large egg

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti:

8 ounces spaghetti pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Extra grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

- Mix everything gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Form the Meatballs:

- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

- With your hands, scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of the turkey mixture and roll it into a ball. Place it on a plate. Repeat until the mixture is formed into 18-20 meatballs.

Air Fry the Meatballs:

- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure there's space between each for air circulation.

- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time, until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown outer layer.

Cook the Spaghetti:

- While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

- Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Combine with Marinara:

- In the same pot used for the spaghetti, return the drained pasta and add the marinara sauce. Heat over medium-low, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

- Once heated through, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve:

- Divide the spaghetti into serving bowls, top with the crispy air-fried meatballs, and drizzle with extra marinara sauce.