Ground turkey is a lean and versatile meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. While pan frying or sautéing ground turkey on the stovetop is common using an air fryer is a healthier cooking method. Air frying locks in moisture and flavor without the need for added oil.
So can you really air fry ground turkey to perfection? The short answer is yes! An air fryer is an excellent way to cook ground turkey so it comes out tender and juicy.
In this comprehensive guide we’ll cover everything you need to know to air fry ground turkey successfully. including
- Benefits of cooking ground turkey in an air fryer
- Tips for preparing and seasoning
- Recommended cook times and temperatures
- Air fried ground turkey recipes to try
Why Air Fry Ground Turkey?
Cooking ground turkey in an air fryer has many advantages over other cooking methods
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Uses less oil: Air frying only requires a small amount of oil to keep the turkey from drying out. Much less oil is needed compared to pan frying.
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Makes it crispy: The hot air circulated in the air fryer gives the turkey a crispy, browned exterior.
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Retains moisture: The turkey comes out tender and juicy on the inside.
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Quick and easy: Ground turkey cooks fast in the air fryer, usually within 10-15 minutes. Minimal prep and cleanup required.
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Adds flavor: Spices and seasonings can be easily coated onto the turkey before air frying.
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Healthy: With less oil and fat needed, air fried ground turkey is a healthier alternative while still tasty.
How to Prepare Ground Turkey for the Air Fryer
Follow these simple steps for best results:
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Use lean ground turkey: Choose 93-96% lean ground turkey so it doesn’t become too greasy.
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Partially freeze (optional): For easier shaping, freeze the raw turkey for 30 mins before air frying.
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Season well: Coat the turkey evenly with seasoning like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
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Shape into patties or balls: Form the turkey into round discs or balls to help it cook evenly.
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Brush with oil (optional): Drizzle a little oil over the turkey to help prevent drying out. Avocado, olive or canola oil work well.
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Use cooking spray or parchment: Lightly coat the fryer basket with oil spray or use parchment paper for easy release.
Recommended Time and Temperature
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Temperature: Cook at 350°F – 400°F. The higher end crisps up the outside.
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Cook time: Air fry for 7-15 minutes, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F internal temperature.
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Flipping: For patties or balls, flip halfway during cooking for even browning.
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Resting: Let the cooked turkey rest for 5 minutes before serving. The temperature will continue rising.
Air Fried Ground Turkey Recipes
Ground turkey shines in the air fryer. Try out these tasty recipes:
1. Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
- Form seasoned ground turkey into bite-sized balls.
- Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Toss meatballs in your favorite marinara sauce.
2. Crispy Air Fried Turkey Burgers
- Shape ground turkey into patties and brush with oil.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve on buns with lettuce, tomato, onion and condiments.
3. Air Fryer Turkey-Veggie Stir Fry
- Cook turkey in the air fryer. Add sliced veggies the last 5 minutes.
- Toss with stir fry sauce. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.
4. Air Fried Turkey-Stuffed Peppers
- Fill bell pepper halves with turkey. Air fry at 360°F 15-20 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheese, salsa or hot sauce.
Air Fryer Tips for Ground Turkey
Use these handy tips for the best ground turkey from your air fryer:
- Use parchment paper or non-stick spray to prevent sticking
- Don’t overcrowd the basket – cook in batches for even cooking
- Flip or stir patties and balls halfway through
- Brush patties with a little oil or broth to prevent drying out
- Let the turkey rest before serving so juices redistribute
- Cook to the proper internal temperature (165°F) for food safety
FAQs
What’s the best temperature for air frying ground turkey?
360°F to 400°F works well. At 360-370°F, expect a slower cook time but juicy interior. Cranking up to 390-400°F gives a nice crispy exterior.
How long does it take to cook ground turkey in an air fryer?
Cook time can range from 7-15 minutes depending on thickness, surface area, and amount being cooked. Larger patties and meatballs take 10-15 minutes. Smaller pieces may only need 7-10 minutes.
Is oil needed when air frying ground turkey?
A small amount of oil helps keep ground turkey moist. However, oil isn’t strictly necessary. You can use a light coat of nonstick spray instead or line the basket with parchment paper.
What’s the minimum internal temperature for safely cooked ground turkey?
Ground turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a food thermometer to ensure it is cooked safely and to prevent foodborne illness.
How do you bread ground turkey for the air fryer?
After forming patties or balls, coat the raw turkey in flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs/panko before air frying for extra crispy, breaded turkey.
Make Delicious Air Fryer Ground Turkey
Air frying is hands-down the easiest, quickest and healthiest way to cook up tender, flavorful ground turkey. With the right preparation, cook times and temperatures, you can enjoy juicy, browned turkey patties, meatballs and more.
So go ahead – start air frying ground turkey tonight to enjoy the convenience and great taste! Let us know your favorite seasonings and air fryer ground turkey recipes.
Explore More Delicious Ground Turkey Recipes
Now that youve mastered cooking ground turkey in your air fryer, its time to enhance your menu with a variety of innovative recipes. For those looking to experiment with bold flavors, Spicy Turkey Taco Patties in the Air Fryer is a must-try. The combination of spices and air-fried crispiness will bring a new level of excitement to taco night. If youre leaning towards something more traditionally comforting, Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce offers a classic taste thats both satisfying and easy to prepare. For a healthier twist on burgers, the Mediterranean Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer are packed with flavors of herbs and spices, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious family meal. Each of these recipes uses the air fryer technique to ensure juicy, flavorful results that are bound to impress. Share your experiences and tips for cooking ground turkey in an air fryer in our
How To Cook Ground Turkey In Air Fryer
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious way to cook ground turkey? Look no further than your air fryer! Cooking ground turkey in an air fryer is a quick and easy method that results in moist and flavorful meat. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to pan-frying or grilling, as it requires little to no oil. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking ground turkey in an air fryer, ensuring a tasty and nutritious meal every time.
- 1 pound of ground turkey
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil (optional, for added moisture)
- Your favorite seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper)
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the ground turkey with your desired seasonings. Make sure to evenly distribute the spices throughout the meat.
- If desired, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the seasoned ground turkey. This will help keep it moist during the cooking process.
- Shape the ground turkey into small patties or meatballs, depending on your preference.
- Place the turkey patties or meatballs into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Cook the ground turkey in the air fryer for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your ground turkey patties or meatballs.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, remove the ground turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your perfectly cooked ground turkey, whether you choose to incorporate it into your favorite recipes or enjoy it on its own!
Air frying ground turkey not only saves time and energy but also results in a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods. The hot circulating air in the fryer helps to cook the turkey evenly while reducing the need for excess oil. Plus, cooking ground turkey in an air fryer can help to remove excess fat, making it a leaner option. So, next time you’re craving a flavorful and healthy meal, try using your air fryer to cook ground turkey. You won’t be disappointed!
Give this air fryer ground turkey recipe a try and you’ll discover a new favorite way to cook this versatile and nutritious meat. Whether you’re making turkey burgers, meatballs, or adding it to a stir-fry, the air fryer will ensure tender and juicy results every time. So, dust off your air fryer and start experimenting with the endless possibilities of cooking ground turkey!