Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

These quick and easy air fryer meatballs are a delicious and convenient meal option. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, they come together in no time using your air fryer. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or over pasta for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and milk. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 2-inch sized meatballs. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
3. Step 3: Cook the meatballs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have reached a safe internal temperature.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Serve with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a classic twist.
• If your air fryer basket is small, cook the meatballs in batches to ensure even cooking.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through. Meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time by about 5 minutes and check that they are heated through before serving.

How do I prevent meatballs from drying out in the air fryer?

Make sure to mix the meat with moisture-rich ingredients like milk and egg, and avoid overcrowding the basket to allow even air circulation. Cooking at the recommended temperature and checking early helps avoid overcooking.

Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 97 reviews

This Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meatballs recipe delivers tender, flavorful meatballs cooked to perfection using an air fryer. Made with lean ground beef and a blend of savory ingredients, these meatballs are perfect as a main dish or appetizer, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: About 16 meatballs 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Meatballs

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 Tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and milk. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into 2-inch sized meatballs ensuring consistent size for even cooking.
3. Arrange in air fryer: Place the formed meatballs in a single, even layer in the basket of your air fryer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
4. Cook the meatballs: Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the meatballs for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F, turning halfway if necessary for even browning.
5. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve immediately with your preferred sauce or side dishes.

Notes

• For a juicier texture, you can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Breadcrumbs can be swapped with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
• Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
• If your air fryer basket is small, cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Keywords: easy meatballs, air fryer meatballs, quick dinner, lean ground beef recipe, Italian meatballs, healthy meatballs