Description
Air fryer meatballs are a quick, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. Perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer, they cook in just 12 minutes with minimal oil.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil spray
- Cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the meatballs: Use a tablespoon or small scoop to portion out the meat mixture. Roll each portion into a ball, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange the meatballs: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching to allow even cooking.
- Cook the meatballs: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with pasta, in a sub, or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Cheese-stuffed meatballs – Add a small cube of mozzarella inside each meatball for a gooey center.
- Spicy meatballs – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Herb-infused meatballs – Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for added depth of flavor.
- Keto-friendly meatballs – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Gluten-free meatballs – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether for a low-carb option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: air fryer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: air fryer meatballs, easy meatball recipe, healthy meatballs, crispy meatballs, quick dinner recipe