Go Back
In today’s fast-paced world, finding nutritious meals that can be prepared quickly is a challenge many face. The good news is that healthy eating doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. One standout option is the Zesty Air Fryer Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles, a recipe that combines the benefits of air frying with the freshness of zucchini to create a dish that is both satisfying and health-conscious. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a low-carb alternative that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Healthy Air Fryer Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

Discover a quick and healthy meal with Zesty Air Fryer Meatballs served over zucchini noodles! This recipe combines lean meat, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs for flavorful meatballs, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a crispy finish. Zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, making this dish not just nutritious but visually appealing too. Perfect for busy weeknights, enjoy a meal that satisfies without the guilt!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Zucchini Noodles:

4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Serving:

Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Extra parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until well combined.

    Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.

      Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

        Air Fry the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

          Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: While the meatballs are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until the noodles are tender but still crisp.

            Serve: On a plate, place a generous serving of zucchini noodles, top with the air-fried meatballs, and drizzle with warm marinara sauce. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

              Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, delicious meal!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4