Air Fryer Meatballs
Quick, easy, and versatile meatballs cooked in an air fryer, perfect for weeknight dinners without the hassle of pan-frying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, pork, or a mix) Use 1 to 1.25 pounds depending on desired quantity.
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian style) If out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers work.
- 1 large Egg To bind the ingredients together.
- 3 tablespoons Grated Parmesan For added flavor.
- splash Milk or water To keep the meatballs tender.
- to taste Garlic Fresh minced or garlic powder.
- to taste Onion Finely grated or onion powder.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Italian seasoning or parsley Optional for added flavor.
Flavor Variations
- extra Parmesan, basil, and oregano For Italian-style meatballs.
- pinch Red pepper flakes and smoked paprika For spicy meatballs.
- Ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil For Asian-inspired meatballs.
- tiny cube Mozzarella For cheesy meatballs.
Instructions
Preparation
- Mix gently. Add your ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, seasonings, and a splash of milk to a bowl. Use your hands or a fork and mix just until combined.
- Roll them evenly. Aim for 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs, ensure they are all about the same size for even cooking.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them.
Cooking
- Air fry the meatballs at 380°F for about 9 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- Check doneness with a thermometer: pull poultry meatballs around 165°F; for beef or pork, aim around 160°F, then let rest for 2 minutes.
Notes
Do not pack meatballs tight when rolling, ensure even size, and allow to rest after cooking for tender results. Freeze cooked meatballs for future meals, reheat at 350°F until hot.