Air Fryer Meatballs
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Plate or tray
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Optional
- marinara sauce
- shredded mozzarella
- red pepper flakes
- extra parmesan
- chopped basil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryerPreheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Mix the meatball mixtureAdd the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley to a bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the meatballsForm the mixture into 16 equal meatballs.
- Air fry the meatballsPlace the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes, shaking gently or turning halfway through, until cooked through and the centers reach 160°F (71°C).
- ServeServe right away with marinara, vegetables, rice, or your favorite sides.
- Optional sauce finishFor a saucy version, toss the cooked meatballs with warm marinara before serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the beef or the meatballs can turn dense.
- Make the meatballs even in size so they cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- These are great plain, with marinara, or added to bowls.
- You may need to cook in batches depending on basket size.
Ingredients at a Glance
Nutrition
Per serving:
Calories: 320
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 1g
How to Make Air Fryer Meatballs
1. Mix the meatball mixture
Combine the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings gently.
2. Roll into even meatballs
Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs for even cooking.
3. Air fry until cooked through
Cook until browned outside and fully cooked inside.
4. Serve with your favorite sides
Enjoy them plain, with sauce, or as part of a meal prep bowl.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Meatballs
- Do not overmix the beef
- Use evenly sized meatballs
- Lightly oil your hands if the mixture sticks
- Do not overcrowd the basket
- Use a thermometer for best texture
- Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving
Easy Variations
Italian-Style Meatballs
Serve with marinara and extra parmesan.
Spicy Meatballs
Add red pepper flakes or a little cayenne to the mixture.
Cheesy Meatballs
Top with mozzarella after cooking and let it melt over the hot meatballs.
Meal Prep Meatballs
Serve with rice, potatoes, or vegetables for easy lunches.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Meatballs
Serve them with:
- marinara sauce
- roasted potatoes
- rice
- green beans
- side salad
- air fryer vegetables
- cauliflower rice
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes, or until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the beef
This can make the meatballs dense instead of tender.
Making uneven meatballs
Different sizes cook at different rates.
Overcrowding the basket
This reduces airflow and can affect browning.
Overcooking
Too much cooking time can dry the meatballs out.
FAQ
Can you cook meatballs in the air fryer?
Yes. Air fryer meatballs cook quickly and stay juicy, making them great for easy dinners and meal prep.
How long do meatballs take in the air fryer?
Most meatballs take about 9 to 10 minutes at 375°F, depending on size.
Are air fryer meatballs healthy?
They can be a great high-protein option, especially when served with vegetables or lighter sides.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey works well, but the flavor and texture will be a little different.
Can I meal prep air fryer meatballs?
Yes. They store and reheat well, which makes them great for meal prep lunches or dinners.
More High-Protein Air Fryer Beef Recipes
- Air Fryer Cheeseburgers
- Air Fryer Beef Stir Fry
- High-Protein Beef Bowl
- Air Fryer Beef Kebabs
- Air Fryer Ground Beef
- Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli
- Air Fryer Meatballs
- Air Fryer Burger Patties
- Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter
Save This Recipe for Later
Save this Air Fryer Meatballs recipe to Pinterest so you can come back to it for quick dinners, healthy lunches, and easy meal prep.
