meatball air fryer recipe

The Best meatball air fryer recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes that has become a staple in our household – the meatball air fryer recipe. This dish has a rich history, originating from Italy where it’s known as ‘polpette.’

The name translates to ‘little balls,’ which is exactly what these tasty meatballs are. I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is for any occasion.

Whether we’re having a family dinner or entertaining guests, these meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser. The best part?

They’re incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. My kids love helping me mix the meat mixture, and they always get excited when they see the meatballs flying out of the air fryer, perfectly cooked and juicy.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also packed with nutrients like protein from the beef and pork, and vitamins from the vegetables.

Plus, using an air fryer reduces the need for excess oil, making this dish a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. I’ve experimented with various seasonings and spices to give it that extra oomph, but the classic Italian flavors always shine through.

Air Fryer Meatballs

4.8 from 1163 votes

These air fryer meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly browned with a crispy exterior. Made with a blend of ground beef and pork, they are seasoned with garlic, onion, and herbs.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time22 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1/2 lb ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
2Mix gently with your hands until just combined; do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
3Shape the mixture into 1.
5-inch meatballs, rolling them firmly but gently.
4You should get about 16 to 18 meatballs.
5Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
6Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
7Once hot, place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each for air circulation.
8You may need to cook in batches.
9Air fry the meatballs at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
10The meatballs are done when they are golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
11Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
12Serve with your favorite sauce or as desired.

🔧Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet or plate

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 26g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If using leaner meat, spray the meatballs lightly with oil to help them brown. Serve with marinara sauce and spaghetti, or as a party appetizer with dipping sauce.

Watch Video Of How Air Fryer Meatballs Works

This meatball air fryer recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will be a hit in yours too! The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to store and reheat for future meals. Simply place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze them for up to three days.

When reheating, simply place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also serve them with your favorite marinara sauce or as part of a larger meal like pasta or subs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Meatballs

Q: What type of meat works best for this recipe?

I prefer using a combination of ground beef and pork for these meatballs, as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture. You can also experiment with other types of meat like turkey or veal if you prefer.

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking.

Q: How do I ensure my meatballs don’t dry out in the air fryer?

To prevent drying out, make sure not to overcook them. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for optimal results.

Q: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs in this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly well in this recipe. Just be aware that they might absorb more moisture than regular breadcrumbs.

Q: Do I need any special equipment to make this recipe?

No special equipment is required beyond an air fryer and a mixing bowl. You can also use a traditional oven if you don’t have an air fryer.

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