Air Fryer Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Meatballs are a quick and easy way to enjoy juicy, flavorful meatballs without the mess of frying. The air fryer gives them a crispy outer texture while keeping the inside tender and moist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, as an appetizer, or served with pasta, these meatballs will become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
bread crumbs
egg
garlic powder
onion powder
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
parmesan cheese
parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, parmesan cheese, and parsley (if using).
3. Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
5. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
7. Check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should be no longer pink in the center.
8. Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 meatballs.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Add cheese: Stuff the meatballs with a small cube of mozzarella cheese for a cheesy surprise inside.
• Use turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months.
To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, you can cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Do I need to use breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them tender, but you can substitute with crushed crackers or oats if preferred.

Can I make these meatballs in the oven instead?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are these meatballs spicy?
No, they are not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes or other spicy ingredients.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Meatballs are a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With their quick cooking time and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy juicy, crispy meatballs in no time. Serve them with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta or enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce!

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