Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs Recipe

Category:Beef Recipes

These tasty Italian meatballs are so easy to make in the air fryer! Juicy, packed with flavor, and ready in a snap, they’re perfect for pasta nights or as a delicious snack.

Honestly, who doesn’t love meatballs? I always make extra to enjoy them with marinara sauce or on a sub! Plus, the air fryer means less mess and faster cooking—win-win!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: A mix of ground beef and pork gives great flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean turkey or chicken can work too. Just remember that they might be slightly drier, so be careful not to overcook.

Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are fantastic, but panko breadcrumbs give a lighter texture. You could also use crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have dietary needs.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-grated, but I prefer not to skip it because of the extra taste it brings. Nutritional yeast can be a great vegan alternative!

Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the meatballs. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with dried parsley (about 1 tablespoon), but fresh is always better for flavor!

How Do You Achieve Tender and Flavorful Meatballs?

The key to tender meatballs lies in how you mix the ingredients. Once you combine the soaked breadcrumbs with the meat, you want to mix just enough to hold them together without overworking it, which can make them chewy.

  • Soak the breadcrumbs well for flavor and moisture.
  • Be gentle when mixing—use your hands or a spatula.
  • Form the meatballs quickly without pressing too hard.

Cooking at just the right temperature also matters. Preheating the air fryer allows them to cook evenly and gives you that nice brown crust that everyone loves!

Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a little heat
  • Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil for the air fryer basket

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 10-12 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Easy and quick enough for any meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:

Start by pouring the breadcrumbs into a large bowl and add the milk. Allow it to soak for 3-5 minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb the liquid. This makes your meatballs nice and moist!

2. Combine the Ingredients:

Once the breadcrumbs have soaked, add in the ground beef, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes for a kick. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon—just until it’s combined. Remember, don’t overmix!

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Now it’s time to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Give it about 5 minutes to warm up, which helps the meatballs cook evenly.

4. Shape the Meatballs:

With the mixture ready, shape it into golf ball-sized meatballs, roughly 1.5 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for even cooking and easy eating!

5. Grease the Air Fryer Basket:

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a bit of olive oil. This helps prevent the meatballs from sticking.

6. Arrange the Meatballs:

Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure there’s some space between them for air circulation. If you have too many, you may need to cook them in batches.

7. Cook the Meatballs:

Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket or flip the meatballs to ensure they brown evenly. Feel free to adjust the time depending on the size of your meatballs and your air fryer model.

8. Check for Doneness:

Make sure your meatballs are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat and still juicy!

9. Garnish and Serve:

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and garnish them with extra chopped parsley. Serve them hot, either with marinara sauce over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or just enjoy them as they are!

Now you’re ready to indulge in these juicy, flavorful Italian meatballs made effortlessly in your air fryer. Enjoy!

Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs Recipe

FAQ for Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs

Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great for a lighter option, but keep in mind they may be slightly drier. To combat this, ensure you don’t overcook them and consider adding a bit more moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk.

Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, shape them into balls and air fry as usual. They might require an extra minute or two if they’re cold from the fridge.

How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

What’s the Best Way to Serve These Meatballs?

These meatballs are delicious served with marinara sauce over pasta, tucked into a hoagie roll for a meatball sub, or even on their own as a tasty appetizer. You can also pair them with a side salad for a complete meal!

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