Air Fryer Asian Meatballs

If you’re searching for a delicious, healthy meal that packs a punch in flavor while being super easy to prepare, look no further than these Air Fryer Asian Meatballs! Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these meatballs are a delightful blend of lean turkey, aromatic garlic, fresh ginger, and a touch of soy sauce. With the magic of the air fryer, they achieve that perfect crispy exterior while remaining juicy on the inside. Serve them over a bed of brown rice with edamame, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!

Why Air Fryer Asian Meatballs is Worth Your Time

These Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are not just any meatballs; they bring a unique Asian twist to a classic favorite. The combination of ginger, garlic, and scallions infuses each bite with flavor, while the air fryer ensures they cook quickly and evenly. Plus, using lean ground turkey makes them a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple enough to follow and results in a dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredient List

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 medium scallions, finely chopped (greens and whites separated)
• 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce, plus more for topping
• 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
• Olive oil spray
• 3 cups cooked brown rice
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 cups shelled edamame, heated
• Sesame seeds, for topping
• Sriracha sauce, optional for topping
• Fresh cilantro, optional for topping

Before You Start: Equipment

• Air fryer: Essential for achieving the perfect crispiness.
• Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
• Baking sheet: Useful if you want to keep meatballs warm in the oven.
• Cooking spray: To prevent sticking in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Asian Meatballs — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, large egg, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped scallion whites, and soy sauce. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is well combined, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into meatballs, placing them on a plate or baking sheet as you go.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that your meatballs start cooking right away when you place them inside.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the meatballs in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, turning them halfway through cooking for even browning.

Step 5: Prepare the Rice and Edamame

While the meatballs are cooking, prepare your brown rice and edamame. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked brown rice with sesame oil and mix well. Heat the edamame according to package instructions until warmed through.

Step 6: Serve

To serve, create a bed of sesame-flavored brown rice on each plate. Top with the cooked meatballs and a generous scoop of heated edamame. Drizzle with extra soy sauce, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. For a spicy kick, add Sriracha sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so you’re good to go!
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to reduce sodium content.
• Vegetarian: Swap turkey for a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Pro Perspective

These Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for dipping, or as a main dish over rice or noodles. The key to perfect meatballs is to ensure they are not overworked during mixing and to allow them to rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better during the cooking process. Additionally, feel free to get creative with the toppings; diced cucumbers, pickled carrots, or even a drizzle of peanut sauce can elevate your dish even further!

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer to freeze them, lay the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. You can use a meat thermometer to check this before serving.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time. You can form them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze them for longer storage.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos is a fantastic option that is both soy-free and lower in sodium. You could also use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Healthy Chicken Tacos
• Easy Chickpea Curry
• Avocado Chocolate Pudding

Save & Share

If you enjoyed these Air Fryer Asian Meatballs, don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. They’ll thank you for introducing them to such a delightful dish! Tag us on social media if you try this recipe; we love seeing your recreations!

These Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are not only a delicious meal option but also a fantastic way to explore Asian flavors in a healthy format. With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, you can whip up a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!