Easy Air Fryer Meatballs
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Easy Air Fryer Meatballs

Recipe by SimpleCookingCourse: Main Dish, AppetizerCuisine: American, Italian-American
Servings

4-6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

12-18

minutes

Get perfectly cooked, juicy meatballs with a delicious browned exterior in your air fryer! This method is quicker and uses less oil than pan-frying, making it ideal for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

    • 1 pound (450g) ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or a mix)

    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)

    • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

    • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

    • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

    • 2 tablespoons milk or water

    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)

    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

    • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    • Olive oil spray or a light drizzle of olive oil

Instructions:

  • Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), chopped parsley, beaten egg, milk or water, Worcestershire sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

  • Mix Gently: Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

  • Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1.5 to 2-inch meatballs (about 1.5 tablespoons of mixture per meatball). You should get 18-24 meatballs.

  • Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

  • Arrange & Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching and the basket is not overcrowded. You will likely need to cook in two or three batches.

  • Cook Meatballs: Air fry for 12-18 minutes, shaking the basket gently or flipping the meatballs halfway through cooking, until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C for beef/pork, 165°F / 74°C for turkey).

  • Serve: Remove the cooked meatballs from the air fryer. Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce, in a sub, over pasta, or as an appetizer.

Notes

  • Meat Choice: Use a ground meat that's not too lean (like 80/20 beef) for the juiciest results. If using very lean meat like ground turkey breast, increase the milk slightly to keep them moist.
  • Don't Overcrowd: Cooking in a single layer with space between meatballs is crucial for even cooking and browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs tend to give a slightly crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
  • Serving Suggestions: These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them submerged in warm marinara sauce, tucked into a sub roll with melted provolone, over spaghetti, or simply as a party appetizer with a dipping sauce.

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