Air Fryer Meatballs

These juicy, flavorful meatballs are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re serving them for pasta night, smothered in marinara sauce, or as an easy appetizer, these air fryer meatballs are a game changer. With a perfect balance of seasonings, they’re so much tastier than store-bought meatballs, and best of all, they’re surprisingly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about these air fryer meatballs! First, the air fryer creates a crispy, golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The flavor is packed with garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. Whether paired with pasta, served as a quick appetizer, or added to a sub, these meatballs are versatile and simple to make. Plus, they cook in just 10–12 minutes, so dinner is ready in no time.

Ingredients

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

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.

3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

4. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure they aren’t overcrowded so they cook evenly.

5. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

6. Serve with marinara sauce, over pasta, or enjoy as an appetizer.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Cook time: 10–12 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Ground meat alternatives: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy meatballs: Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

• Cheese variations: Try swapping the Parmesan for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives or make a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and egg for a vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep super easy.

2. How do I ensure the meatballs stay juicy?

Don’t overwork the meat mixture when mixing it. Also, don’t skip the breadcrumbs and egg – they help retain moisture and provide structure.

3. Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze for 2-3 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. To cook, just add a few extra minutes to the air frying time.

4. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the type of meat you use.

5. How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The meatballs are done when they are golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I make these meatballs without an air fryer?

Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes or until they are fully cooked and browned.

7. What can I serve these meatballs with?

These meatballs are perfect with pasta, over rice, or served on a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a delicious meatball sub.

8. How many meatballs should I serve per person?

Typically, 3–4 meatballs per person is a good serving size, depending on appetite and side dishes.

9. What is the best way to shape the meatballs?

Use your hands or a cookie scoop to shape the meatballs. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.

10. Can I add extra vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes, finely grated vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach can be added for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

These air fryer meatballs are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite sauce, pasta, or even as a tasty snack!