Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes Recipe

Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy exterior that gives way to a creamy, savory center packed with tender turkey and herbs. These air fryer turkey croquettes are the ultimate comfort food makeover! Did you know that croquettes originated in French cuisine and were created as a clever way to transform leftovers into something extraordinary?

This dish is special because it turns your leftover turkey into restaurant-quality appetizers or a quick dinner that your whole family will devour. With just 20 minutes of prep and cook time, you’ll have crispy perfection without the mess and calories of deep frying.

If you loved our [Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets], you’ll absolutely adore these sophisticated yet simple croquettes. Get ready to transform humble ingredients into golden treasures that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

What is Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes?

Ever wonder why we call these delightful golden bites “croquettes”? The word comes from the French “croquer,” meaning “to crunch” – and boy, do these live up to their name! These are essentially creamy turkey filling shaped into cylinders or patties, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, and air-fried to perfection.

They say the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and these croquettes are your secret weapon! Whether you’re using Thanksgiving leftovers or fresh turkey, you’re about to create magic. Ready to crunch your way to happiness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes Recipe

Crispy Perfection Without the Guilt

The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around these beauties, creating that irresistible golden crust we all crave – but with 75% less oil than traditional deep frying. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that gives way to a silky, herb-infused turkey center that melts in your mouth. The texture contrast is absolutely phenomenal!

Budget-Friendly Kitchen Magic

Making these at home saves you serious money compared to ordering appetizers at restaurants. A single batch costs around $8-10 and yields 12-15 croquettes, while restaurant versions charge $12-15 for just 4-6 pieces! Plus, this is the perfect way to stretch your leftover turkey or use affordable ground turkey from the grocery store.

Flavor That Packs a Punch

These aren’t your boring leftovers! We’re elevating the turkey with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, a hint of nutmeg for depth, and binding everything with creamy mashed potatoes. The Panko breadcrumb coating gets extra flavor from Parmesan cheese, creating layers of taste in every bite. If you enjoyed our [Air Fryer Salmon Patties], you’ll love how these turkey croquettes bring similar comfort with a completely different flavor profile. Why order takeout when you can whip up these golden delights in your own kitchen? Let’s make magic happen!

How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes

Quick Overview

These air fryer turkey croquettes are surprisingly simple to make!

You’ll love how quickly they come together – just mix, shape, coat, and air fry. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes only 12-15 minutes.

Total time from start to finish: 30 minutes maximum!

The result? Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, with rich turkey flavor enhanced by herbs and spices. No deep fryer needed, no oil splatter to clean up, and no guilt about calories!

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes

For the Croquette Mixture:

2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped or shredded (leftover or freshly cooked)
1 cup mashed potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes, cooled)
1/3 cup finely diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Coating:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Croquette Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine your finely chopped turkey with the cooled mashed potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are completely cool to prevent the mixture from becoming too soft. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and thyme. Sprinkle in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. The nutmeg might seem unusual, but it adds a subtle warmth that elevates the entire flavor profile. Mix everything together using your hands or a wooden spoon until well combined.

Add the beaten egg and flour, which will act as binders to hold everything together. The mixture should be firm enough to shape but still moist. If it feels too wet, add a tablespoon more flour; if too dry, add a teaspoon of milk.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture and shape it into a cylinder about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick, or form into patties about 1/2 inch thick and 2-3 inches wide. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking. Place each shaped croquette on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 12-15 croquettes depending on size. Once all are shaped, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial – it helps the croquettes hold their shape during coating and cooking.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

While the croquettes chill, prepare three shallow bowls for your breading station. In the first bowl, add 1/2 cup of flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the two eggs with a tablespoon of water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and paprika. The Parmesan adds extra flavor and helps the coating brown beautifully, while the paprika gives a lovely golden color.

Step 4: Coat the Croquettes

Remove the chilled croquettes from the refrigerator. Working with one at a time, roll each croquette in the flour, shaking off any excess. This first coating helps the egg wash stick better. Next, dip it in the egg mixture, turning to coat all sides and letting excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere evenly all over. Place the coated croquette back on the baking sheet. Repeat with all remaining croquettes. For extra crispiness, you can double-coat them by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Step 5: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a thin layer of olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden color.

Step 6: Air Fry the Croquettes

Arrange the croquettes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches. Don’t overcrowd! Lightly spray the tops of the croquettes with cooking spray. Air fry at 375°F for 6-7 minutes. Open the basket, carefully flip each croquette using tongs, and spray the other side lightly with cooking spray. Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes until they’re deep golden brown and crispy all over. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if you’re using a meat thermometer.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Transfer the cooked croquettes to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the interior to set slightly and ensures the coating stays crispy. Serve immediately while hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauces!

What to Serve Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes With

These versatile croquettes pair beautifully with so many accompaniments!

Dipping Sauces: Serve with cranberry sauce for a Thanksgiving throwback, creamy garlic aioli, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy lemon-herb yogurt sauce. Hot sauce lovers can drizzle sriracha mayo on top!

Side Dishes: Pair them with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus make excellent companions. For a heartier meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or a warm quinoa salad.

Complete Meal Ideas: Make it a full dinner by serving the croquettes over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Add a bowl of tomato soup on the side for a comforting combo. They also work wonderfully as sliders – place them on small brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.

Beverages: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a light beer, sparkling water with lemon, or even a cranberry spritzer complements these croquettes perfectly!

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes

Get the Texture Right

The key to perfect croquettes is the right moisture balance in your mixture. Your mashed potatoes should be on the drier side – avoid adding butter or milk when preparing them specifically for this recipe. If using leftover mashed potatoes that contain dairy, add an extra 2 tablespoons of flour to compensate. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be overly wet or dry.

Chilling is Non-Negotiable

Don’t skip the refrigeration step after shaping! Those 15-20 minutes in the fridge help the mixture firm up, making coating easier and preventing the croquettes from falling apart during cooking. If you have time, refrigerate them for up to 2 hours or even overnight – this actually improves the texture.

Master the Coating Technique

For the crispiest coating, make sure each layer is complete before moving to the next. Shake off excess flour, let excess egg drip off, and press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly. For ultra-crispy results, let the coated croquettes sit for 5 minutes before air frying – this helps the coating adhere better.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Air circulation is what makes the air fryer work its magic. Leave at least half an inch of space between each croquette. Overcrowding leads to soggy spots and uneven cooking. It’s better to cook in batches!

Perfect Your Flip

When flipping halfway through, use tongs or a spatula and be gentle but confident. If a croquette seems to stick slightly, give it another minute before attempting to flip – it likely needs more time to form a crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

No turkey? Use cooked chicken, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even ground turkey that’s been cooked and cooled. Replace mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a twist, or use instant mashed potatoes if you’re short on time. Fresh herbs can be swapped with dried (use half the amount). Regular breadcrumbs work if you don’t have Panko, though Panko gives superior crispiness.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Don’t use turkey that’s too moist – pat it dry with paper towels first. Avoid overmixing the croquette mixture, which can make them dense. Never skip preheating the air fryer, as this ensures even cooking from the start. And resist the urge to check on them constantly – opening the air fryer releases heat and extends cooking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. Make sure they’ve cooled completely before storing to avoid condensation, which makes them soggy.

Freezing Instructions

These freeze beautifully! For uncooked croquettes, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen by adding 3-4 extra minutes to the air frying time. For cooked croquettes, let them cool completely, freeze on a baking sheet, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating for Best Results

The air fryer is perfect for reheating! Preheat to 350°F and cook refrigerated croquettes for 4-5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. For frozen cooked croquettes, reheat at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Avoid the microwave – it makes them soggy and ruins that beautiful crispy coating!

Meal Prep Magic

Make a double batch! Shape and coat all the croquettes, freeze half uncooked for future quick meals. On busy weeknights, you can go from freezer to dinner in under 20 minutes. This makes them perfect for meal prep Sundays!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked turkey?

While this recipe is designed for cooked turkey, you can use raw ground turkey. Cook 1 pound of ground turkey in a skillet with the onions and garlic until fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain excess fat, let it cool completely, then proceed with the recipe. The cooking time remains the same since the turkey is pre-cooked.

Why are my croquettes falling apart?

Croquettes fall apart for a few reasons: the mixture is too wet (add more flour), you didn’t chill them long enough (refrigerate at least 15 minutes), or the egg binder was missing. Make sure you’re using one egg in the mixture itself plus eggs for coating. The mashed potatoes also act as a binder, so ensure you have the full amount.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the flour with gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for coating. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. The texture will be just as crispy and delicious!

Do I need to flip the croquettes during cooking?

Yes, flipping ensures even browning and crispiness on all sides. Flip them once at the halfway point (around 6-7 minutes). Some air fryers have better air circulation than others, but flipping guarantees the best results for everyone.

Can I deep fry these instead of using an air fryer?

Yes! Heat oil to 350°F in a deep pot or fryer. Fry the croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. However, air frying is healthier and creates less mess while achieving similar crispiness.

How do I know when they’re fully cooked?

They should be deep golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cook until they’re crispy and golden, then cut one open to ensure the center is hot throughout.

Can I make mini croquettes for appetizers?

Perfect for parties! Shape them smaller (about 2 tablespoons of mixture each) and reduce cooking time to 8-10 minutes total, flipping halfway. You’ll get about 24-30 mini croquettes, ideal for serving with toothpicks and various dipping sauces.

What’s the best way to reheat them to keep them crispy?

Always use the air fryer or oven for reheating, never the microwave. Air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes brings back that just-cooked crispiness. If using an oven, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation all around.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (2 croquettes)
Calories	285
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	420mg
Total Carbohydrates	28g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	2g
Protein	22g
Vitamin A	6% DV
Vitamin C	8% DV
Calcium	8% DV
Iron	12% DV

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – the ultimate guide to making perfectly crispy air fryer turkey croquettes! These golden beauties are proof that you don’t need a deep fryer to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Whether you’re transforming Thanksgiving leftovers or using fresh turkey, this recipe delivers every single time.

The best part? You can customize these to your family’s preferences. Add a kick with cayenne pepper, mix in some cheese for extra richness, or experiment with different herbs from your garden. They’re incredibly forgiving and versatile!

Remember, the keys to success are chilling the mixture, not overcrowding your air fryer basket, and giving them a light spray of oil for that irresistible golden crust. Once you master this basic recipe, you’ll find yourself making variations all year long.

These croquettes aren’t just a recipe – they’re a solution to busy weeknights, a party appetizer that disappears in minutes, and a delicious way to reduce food waste. Plus, your kitchen stays clean without oil splatters everywhere!

So grab your air fryer, round up that turkey (or hit the grocery store), and get ready to create something absolutely delicious. Your family will be asking for these on repeat, and you’ll love how simple they are to make. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to save this recipe – you’ll definitely want to make it again!

Pro tip: Take a photo of your golden, crispy creations and tag us on social media – we love seeing your cooking successes! Now go forth and conquer those croquettes! 🦃✨