Air Fryer Meatballs

These air fryer meatballs are a quick and delicious take on a classic dish. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping, these meatballs are easy to make and ready in under 20 minutes, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: The air fryer significantly cuts down on cooking time.
• Healthier option: Less oil is needed compared to traditional frying methods.
• Versatile: These meatballs can be served with pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer.
• Meal prep-friendly: Perfect for making ahead and storing for later use.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different seasonings and types of meat.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef (or any preferred ground meat)
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Minced garlic
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Dried Italian herbs
• Olive oil cooking spray (for air fryer)

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix until well-combined.
3. Form meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
4. Prepare the air fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Cook the meatballs: Place the meatballs in the basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are browned evenly.
6. Check for doneness: Meatballs should be golden and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the air fryer and serve with your favorite pasta, sauce, or side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields about 4 servings, depending on the size of the meatballs.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Meat options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a mix of different meats.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef for a kick.
• Cheese-stuffed meatballs: Insert a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball before air frying for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones to make these meatballs gluten-free.
• Herb adjustments: Add fresh parsley or basil for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For frozen meatballs, cook them straight from the freezer in the air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs, which help hold the meatballs together.

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, pork, or even a mix of different meats.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meatballs ahead and either refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook.

Do I need to flip the meatballs during cooking?

Yes, flipping the meatballs halfway through ensures even browning and cooking on all sides.

Can I cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, almond flour, or oats for a low-carb or gluten-free option.

How long should I freeze uncooked meatballs?

Uncooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What sides go well with air fryer meatballs?

Serve these meatballs with pasta, garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I reheat the meatballs in the microwave?

Yes, the meatballs can be reheated in the microwave, but the air fryer will help retain their crispiness better.

Conclusion

Air fryer meatballs are a simple yet versatile dish that can be served in countless ways. They offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while maintaining all the flavor and texture you love. Whether you’re making them for dinner, meal prep, or a party appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. With customizable options and easy storage, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

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