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Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe

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4 from 63 reviews

These air fryer meatballs are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with less oil and mess. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, they turn out juicy and full of flavor, making them ideal for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer.

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 meatballs

Ingredients

Meatballs Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk or water

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and allow it to preheat thoroughly, ensuring the meatballs will cook evenly from the start.
  2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, minced garlic, beaten eggs, and milk (or water). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but do not overmix to avoid tough meatballs.
  3. Shape the meatballs: With lightly wet hands, form the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs. This helps prevent sticking and ensures uniform cooking.
  4. Prepare the air fryer basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent the meatballs from sticking during cooking. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, making sure they have some space between them for proper air circulation.
  5. Cook the meatballs: Air fry the meatballs at 190°C (375°F) for 10-12 minutes. Check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
  6. Rest before serving: Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making them juicy and tender when served.

Notes

  • If you prefer, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Using milk will make the meatballs a bit more tender, whereas water can be used if you want to reduce fat content.
  • Check meatballs halfway through cooking and shake the basket gently if needed to ensure even browning.
  • These meatballs pair well with marinara sauce and pasta or can be served as a party appetizer with dipping sauces.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American