If you’re a fan of perfectly cooked meatballs with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, then the air fryer is your best friend. Using the air fryer, you can achieve that golden-brown finish without the need for deep frying, making this recipe a healthier yet equally delicious option. Whether you’re serving them on a classic spaghetti and marinara or as a savory appetizer, air fryer meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
I’ve been experimenting with air fryer recipes lately, and these meatballs quickly became one of my favorites. They’re easy to make, quick, and so much tastier than store-bought versions. Plus, the best part? They require minimal oil, making them a much lighter option while still packing in plenty of flavor. Get ready to make a batch of air fryer meatballs that will impress everyone!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star of this recipe. It provides the perfect texture and rich flavor for the meatballs. I recommend using 80/20 beef for a good balance between flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work just as well!
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are crucial for giving the meatballs structure and helping them hold together. They also add a soft texture. You can use plain or Italian breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder to hold the meatball mixture together, ensuring they don’t fall apart during cooking. It also contributes a little moisture, which helps keep the meatballs tender.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty flavor to the meatballs. It also helps with browning during cooking. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but pre-grated also works if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a key seasoning that enhances the flavor of the meatballs. It gives them that familiar, savory taste that complements the beef so well.
Italian Seasoning: This seasoning blend brings in a touch of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. It’s what makes these meatballs taste authentically Italian. You can substitute with fresh herbs if preferred, but the dried mix is so convenient.
Salt & Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the meatballs to perfection. Don’t skimp on these—they bring out the natural flavors of the beef and seasonings.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
- 1 large Egg
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
How to Make Air Fryer Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the meatballs will cook evenly and develop that crispy golden brown texture on the outside.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Scoop out portions of the meatball mixture using a spoon or your hands and roll them into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This will yield around 12-14 meatballs, depending on the size. Make sure the meatballs are of uniform size for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The meatballs should be golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These meatballs are perfect on pasta, in sandwiches, or served with a side of marinara for dipping.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Lean Beef for Lower Fat: You can use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier version, but keep in mind that the meatballs may be slightly drier.
- Add Moisture: If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to help bind the ingredients together.
- Don’t Skip the Preheat: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and helps the meatballs achieve that crisp exterior.
- Perfect Size: Aim for meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter to ensure even cooking.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so the meatballs might be a bit drier. Adding a little more moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk, can help.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They should also be golden brown on the outside.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 3 months and cook directly from frozen in the air fryer.
What should I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or even as a meatball sub in a hoagie bun with marinara sauce and melted cheese. They also make a great appetizer when served with dipping sauces.