Air Fryer Turkey and Lamb Meatballs with Zucchini and Mushrooms

These juicy turkey and lamb meatballs are a poultry-forward, air fryer star built for steady blood sugar. By blending lean ground turkey with a touch of ground lamb, you get big flavor without bread crumbs or spikes in carbs. Each serving stays under 4 grams net carbs, making this an easy win for weeknight air fryer meals keto eaters love. The quick side of zucchini, mushrooms, and a little red bell pepper roasts in the basket for a colorful, low-glycemic plate. High protein, modest fat, and nonstarchy vegetables make this recipe a strong choice for diabetes management. Lean poultry provides a steady protein foundation while a small amount of lamb adds richness and satisfies. The vegetable mix supplies fiber and micronutrients with minimal impact on post-meal glucose. For more poultry ideas, browse more [chicken recipes](/categories/chicken) and build out a rotation that prevents boredom while supporting your health goals. Each portion delivers about 38 grams of protein with approximately 3.9 grams net carbs, helping curb hunger and reduce snacking later. If you already enjoy air fryer meatballs, consider this a lighter, juicier take that still feels indulgent. Looking for variety in your low-carb routine? Iron-rich air fryer beef liver, crispy keto air fryer bacon for breakfast, or heart-healthy keto air fryer salmon can round out a week of balanced options without spiking blood sugar. For best results, preheat your appliance and use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to verify doneness. Because the mixture contains poultry, cook the meatballs to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A light mist from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) prevents sticking and helps browning with less oil. If you are shopping for a dependable appliance, this is a great [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) option to consider. Remember USDA minimums: poultry 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ground meats like lamb 160 degrees Fahrenheit, fish and shellfish 145 degrees Fahrenheit, and steaks or chops 145 degrees Fahrenheit with a 3-minute rest. Serve these meatballs with our crisp and creamy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw), over zucchini noodles, or tucked into lettuce cups with a squeeze of lemon. New to countertop cooking? Our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) covers basket spacing, air circulation, and preheating so you can master texture and flavor fast. They also meal prep beautifully. Chill, then refrigerate for 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until hot. For planning a week of low-glycemic meals, check out our [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). Swap the seasoning profile with basil and fennel for Italian vibes, or add lemon zest and oregano for a brighter finish. This is a simple, reliable framework you can keep coming back to.

Prep: 20 min. Cook: 20 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey, 93% lean
• 8 oz ground lamb
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp blanched almond flour
• 1 tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup finely grated zucchini, squeezed dry
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray, as needed
• 2 cups sliced zucchini (about 260 g)
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for veggies)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt (for veggies)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (for veggies)
• 1 tsp lemon zest, optional

Instructions

1. Mix the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ground lamb, egg, almond flour, Parmesan, grated zucchini, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
2. Form 16 meatballs, about 1.5 inches each. Chill for 10 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
3. Prep vegetables: In a second bowl, toss sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and red bell pepper with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if using.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. Lightly coat the basket with olive oil spray.
5. Air fry the meatballs: Arrange meatballs in a single layer with space between them. Cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, turning once halfway through.
6. Food safety check: Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to verify an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit because the mixture contains poultry. USDA minimums for reference: poultry 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ground meats like lamb 160 degrees Fahrenheit, fish and shellfish 145 degrees Fahrenheit, and steaks or chops 145 degrees Fahrenheit with a 3-minute rest. Ground meatballs do not require a rest, but a brief 2-minute rest improves juiciness.
7. Air fry the vegetables: Increase the air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the seasoned vegetables in a single layer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
8. Serve: Divide meatballs and vegetables among plates. Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer