Air Fryer Meatballs are a quick and easy way to enjoy perfectly cooked, crispy, and juicy meatballs without the need for deep frying. These meatballs are loaded with flavor and are a healthier alternative, thanks to the air fryer’s ability to cook with little to no oil, making them the perfect addition to pasta, sandwiches, or as an appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Meatballs are incredibly easy to make and cook quickly, resulting in tender, juicy meatballs with a golden-brown, crispy exterior. Using the air fryer makes them a healthier option than traditional frying, and the flavor is still rich and delicious. Whether you pair them with spaghetti, serve them on a sub roll, or enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce, these meatballs will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Air Fryer Meatballs

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner version)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs depending on the size.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
Cook the Meatballs: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Check for Doneness: The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) if using ground beef.
Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Serve them with marinara sauce, on a sub roll for meatball sandwiches, or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 18–20 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Meatballs: Add 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the meatball mixture for a cheesy surprise inside.
Spicy Meatballs: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture for an extra kick of heat.
BBQ Meatballs: Coat the cooked meatballs in your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a smoky, sweet finish.
Vegetarian Meatballs: Use plant-based ground meat or mashed chickpeas as a substitute for the meat to make vegetarian or vegan meatballs.
Italian Meatballs: Mix in some dried basil or Italian seasoning for a more traditional Italian flavor.
Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of each meatball for a melty, cheesy surprise when you bite into them.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. Let them cool completely and then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or microwave them for 1–2 minutes. You can also heat them in marinara sauce on the stovetop for a juicy, flavorful result.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works great in this recipe. Just note that turkey meatballs may be a little leaner, so adding a small amount of olive oil or breadcrumbs can help keep them moist.

2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs, shape them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them raw for later use.

3. Can I bake these meatballs instead of using the air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked.

4. How can I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Spraying the basket with cooking spray or lightly brushing it with oil helps prevent the meatballs from sticking. You can also use parchment paper designed for air fryers for easy cleanup.

5. Can I use different seasonings for the meatballs?

Definitely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, or parsley for a different flavor profile.

6. How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 160°F (70°C) for beef or turkey meatballs. If you don’t have a thermometer, check for a golden brown exterior and make sure the meatballs are firm to the touch.

7. How do I make the meatballs juicier?

To make the meatballs juicier, try adding a little bit of milk, ricotta cheese, or a grated zucchini to the mixture. These ingredients add moisture and tenderness.

8. Can I cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time to 12–15 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

9. Can I stuff these meatballs with cheese?

Yes, you can stuff the meatballs with cheese before cooking. Just form the meatball around a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar for a melty surprise in the center.

10. What can I serve these meatballs with?

These meatballs are perfect with pasta and marinara sauce, on a sub roll for meatball sandwiches, or served as a party appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, BBQ sauce, or marinara.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Meatballs are a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional frying, delivering the same crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for any occasion, from spaghetti night to party appetizers, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone. Customize them with your favorite seasonings, sauces, and toppings for endless delicious variations!