If you’re searching for a dinner or appetizer that’s fast, flavorful, and practically fuss-free, look no further than these Air Fryer Meatballs. Juicy on the inside, with a savory golden crust, these little bites will quickly become your go-to for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the classic comfort of homemade meatballs—no greasy pans or oven babysitting required.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Air Fryer Meatballs is how simple the ingredient list is. Each addition brings its own magic, from moistness to flavor to the perfect bite. Don’t be tempted to skip or substitute too much; together, these ingredients deliver a well-balanced, crowd-pleasing recipe every single time.
- Ground beef or ground turkey: The base of your meatballs! Choose beef for a classic flavor, or turkey for something lighter.
- Breadcrumbs: These ensure your meatballs are plush and tender instead of tough or dry.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that sets homemade meatballs apart.
- Milk: Keeps everything moist and helps combine the dry ingredients seamlessly.
- Large egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder, holding your meatballs together.
- Minced garlic: Fresh garlic gives your meatballs an irresistible savory kick.
- Dried Italian seasoning: Brings together those familiar, herbaceous Italian notes.
- Salt: Enhances every other flavor in the recipe.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and balances richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: This brightens up the meatballs and gives them a lovely finish.
How to Make Air Fryer Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer is a small but mighty step that ensures your Air Fryer Meatballs cook evenly and develop that iconic golden exterior. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat for 3 to 5 minutes while you prep the meat mixture. This gives the basket a head start on crisping up those meatballs.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Base
Grab a large bowl and combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until all the ingredients are incorporated—overmixing can make your meatballs tough, so stop as soon as everything looks evenly blended.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape your mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. If you want perfectly even Air Fryer Meatballs, a scoop is your best friend. Arrange the shaped meatballs on a plate as you go, making sure they’re as uniform as possible for even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Meatballs
Place the meatballs in your preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, giving them a little space so the air can circulate. It’s essential that the meatballs aren’t crowded, or they won’t cook evenly. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through so each meatball gets nicely browned all over. They’re ready when golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your Air Fryer Meatballs are done, transfer them to a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. This last touch adds fresh flavor and a pop of color—don’t skip it! Serve them piping hot, alone or with your favorite marinara, pesto, or dipping sauce.
How to Serve Air Fryer Meatballs
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic, but you can level up by adding freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Each of these finishes brings an extra layer of flavor and makes the meatballs look irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
There’s no end to what you can serve with Air Fryer Meatballs. Go traditional with tender spaghetti and your favorite tomato sauce, pile them on soft rolls for sandwich night, or pair with zucchini noodles for a lighter spin. A big green salad or garlicky roasted veggies on the side turns these meatballs into a nourishing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, skewer each meatball with a decorative toothpick and serve with a trio of dipping sauces for a fun appetizer. Or tuck them into slider buns with a swipe of pesto for a brilliant game-day snack. You can even toss them atop pizza or stir them into a brothy soup—these Air Fryer Meatballs are as versatile as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Air Fryer Meatballs, let them cool to room temperature, then pack them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll keep perfectly for up to 4 days, making them an easy grab-and-go addition to any meal.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled meatballs on a lined baking sheet so they aren’t touching and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, ready to rescue any last-minute dinner emergency.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4-5 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a pinch (cover with a damp paper towel), or simmer gently in sauce on the stove if you want them extra juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a meat blend instead of just beef or turkey?
Absolutely! Mixing beef, pork, or even veal will give your Air Fryer Meatballs a richer, more complex flavor. Just keep the total weight to one pound and adjust seasoning to taste.
How do I keep the meatballs from drying out in the air fryer?
Milk, egg, and breadcrumbs all help retain moisture, but be careful not to overcook. Check for doneness starting at 10 minutes; as soon as they hit 165°F internally, they’re good to go.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
You can easily make gluten-free Air Fryer Meatballs by swapping the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. Everything else is naturally gluten-free, so no compromise on flavor here!
What sauces pair best with Air Fryer Meatballs?
Classic marinara is a crowd-pleaser, but you can switch it up with creamy Alfredo, basil pesto, or even a spicy arrabbiata if you like heat. They’re also great dipped in garlic aioli or honey mustard for appetizers.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Of course! Just cook the meatballs in batches so you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. You’ll likely get about 32 meatballs from doubling the recipe. Keep finished batches warm on a low oven while you finish the rest.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need a quick protein for busy weeknights or a show-stopping appetizer that wows your guests, Air Fryer Meatballs are sure to become a regular in your kitchen. With their juicy centers, easy prep, and endless serving options, there’s always a good reason to whip up a batch. Give them a try—you won’t believe how something so straightforward can taste this special!
Print
Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 16 meatballs 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These delicious air fryer meatballs are easy to make, healthier than traditional fried meatballs, and packed with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, these Italian-American inspired meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, beaten egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs using your hands or a scoop.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Place meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Finish and Serve: Once golden brown and cooked through, transfer meatballs to a plate, garnish with parsley, and serve with sauce if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding finely chopped onion or fresh herbs to the meat mixture.
- Experiment with ground pork or a meat blend for a different taste profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
