Turkey Pesto Meatballs come together with just four ingredients in less than 20 minutes! Always juicy and full of herbaceous, savory flavor, they’re the perfect main course, snack, or appetizer.
The Best Turkey Pesto Meatballs Recipe
Meatballs are always a favorite in our homes. Whether we’re making spaghetti and meatballs, BBQ meatballs, or healthy turkey meatballs, they always hit the spot.
However, these air fryer turkey pesto meatballs might just be our favorite version yet! Quick and easy to make, they’re perfect for meal prep. Plus, they’re full of protein and healthy fats.
Gluten-free and dairy-free friendly, they’re one option the whole family always agrees on. Trust us, this is sure to become one of your favorite meatball recipes. You’ll always want to keep a batch on hand!
Ingredients You Need
- Lean Ground Turkey – Feel free to substitute ground chicken if preferred for pesto chicken meatballs. We don’t recommend using ground beef, because the flavor is a little too overpowering.
- Almond Flour – This acts as a binder and replaces the need for breadcrumbs, keeping these meatballs gluten-free and low-carb. You can find almond flour in the baking section of your local grocery store, or use homemade almond flour instead!
- Pesto – Use your favorite store-bought pesto or homemade basil pesto you like best.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Crumbled feta cheese also works. This is technically optional but highly recommended as it adds a tangy, cheesy taste.
How to Make Air Fryer Pesto Turkey Meatballs
Before you begin, grease your air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray, and set it to preheat. We want to allow plenty of time for it to get hot!
- Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Use a cookie dough scoop to portion out the meatballs mixture, and roll each meatball between your hands.
- Add the meatballs to the greased air fryer basket, leaving space in between each piece.
- Air fry until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Repeat, working in batches until all the meatballs cook.
- Enjoy with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh basil!
Can I Bake My Pesto Meatballs Instead?
Yes! This recipe works well in the oven.
Combine and assemble the meatballs as usual. Then, arrange them on greased baking sheets.
Bake in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with pesto, Ranch, or marinara for dipping.
- Pair your turkey pesto metaballs with pasta, orzo, or zucchini noodles. Then, add marinara sauce, pesto, or spaghetti sauce.
- Stuff the meatballs into a bun or bread to create a sandwich.
- Add them to your favorite salad recipes.
- Spear the meatballs with a toothpick for easy appetizers.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat
- Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Freeze turkey pesto meatballs for up to four months. To do so, arrange them on a baking sheet, and transfer them to the freezer. Once solid, place the meatballs in a sealable bag, and store until you’re ready to eat.
- Thaw frozen meatballs in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them in the oven, air fryer, or microwave just until warmed through.
More Family-Friendly Air Fryer Recipes
Turkey Pesto Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground turkey
- ½ cup almond flour
- ½ cup Pesto + more for serving
- Optional Topping: shredded Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together until combined.2 pounds lean ground turkey, ½ cup almond flour, ½ cup Pesto + more for serving
- Use a 2 Tablespoon-sized cookie dough scoop to create meatballs; roll out between your hands.
- Place the meatballs on a plate and preheat the air fryer.
- Place the meatballs in the preheated air fryer (do not overcrowd them). Bake in the air fryer for 10-11 minutes or until the internal temp of the meatballs is 165°F.
- Remove the meatballs from the air fryer when cooked through. Place on a clean plate and cover to keep warm. Repeat the steps above until all meatballs are cooked.
- Serve meatballs with additional pesto and optional toppings, if desired.Optional Topping: shredded Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
