Air Fryer Italian Meatballs
This Air Fryer Italian Meatballs recipe offers a healthier, quicker, and versatile option with customizable flavors, making it a family-friendly favorite suitable for various occasions and preferences.
Prep time
10-15 min
Cook time
10-12 min
Calories
1100
Servings
4
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Italian Meatballs Recipe
Healthier Option: Air frying reduces the need for excess oil compared to traditional frying methods, resulting in lighter and healthier meatballs that are still crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Quick and Easy: With simple preparation and no need for constant monitoring, this recipe allows you to whip up delicious Italian meatballs in a fraction of the time it would take to cook them in the oven or on the stovetop.
Versatile Serving Options: These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served as a main dish with pasta, as a protein-packed appetizer, or even as a topping for sandwiches and salads, making them suitable for various occasions and preferences.
Customizable Flavor: While this recipe provides a classic Italian flavor profile, you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer them spicier, milder, or with additional herbs and spices, you have the flexibility to customize the flavor to your liking.
Family-Friendly Meal: Italian meatballs are a beloved comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults. By preparing them in the air fryer, you can create a wholesome and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
More Air Fryer Tips & Tricks
How to Make Air Fryer Italian Meatballs
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (you can also use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 egg
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Take portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one for proper air circulation.
Cook the meatballs in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Check for doneness by cutting into one of the larger meatballs to make sure they’re cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Once done, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce, pasta, or as desired.
Equipment to make Air Fryer Italian Meatballs
Mixing Bowl
Measuring Spoons and Cups
Utensils for mixing
Plate or Tray
Tips and tricks for making Air Fryer Italian Meatballs
Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or a mix of lean beef and pork to avoid overly greasy meatballs and ensure they maintain their shape during cooking.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before cooking helps ensure the meatballs start cooking immediately, resulting in a crispier exterior.
Uniform Size: Shape your meatballs into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This also helps them cook at the same rate, preventing some meatballs from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave space between the meatballs in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior.
Flip Halfway Through: Flip the meatballs halfway through the cooking time using kitchen tongs to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. This helps achieve a uniform texture and color throughout the meatballs.
Nutrition breakdown ( per serving )
Calories: 275 kcal
Protein: 17 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Fiber: 1-2 g
Sodium: 500 mg
*Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as ingredient brands and specific measurements used in the recipe. Additionally, if you adjust the serving size or make modifications to the recipe, the nutritional values may change accordingly.