Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly browned without the mess of stovetop frying or the wait of oven baking. These meatballs are ideal for quick weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or meal prepping. Using the air fryer gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.

ingredients

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

ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)breadcrumbsparmesan cheeseminced garlicchopped parsleyeggssaltblack pepperItalian seasoningolive oil spray

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, parsley, eggs, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Mix until just combined—do not overmix to avoid tough meatballs.

Scoop and shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.

Place the meatballs in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.

Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the meatballs are golden and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F or 74°C).

Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 18 meatballs.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Air frying time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Stir in finely grated onion or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor depth.

Glaze with BBQ or teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes for a saucy finish.

Serve with marinara over spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or as a party appetizer.

storage/reheating

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months—freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer?

Yes, cook them at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Do I need to flip meatballs in the air fryer?

Shaking the basket halfway through ensures even browning.

What size should I make the meatballs?

1 to 1.5 inches in diameter works best for even cooking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, shape and refrigerate raw meatballs for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs?

Yes, but adjust additional seasonings to avoid over-salting.

Are these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Can I add cheese inside the meatballs?

Yes, place a small cube of mozzarella in the center for a cheesy surprise.

How do I know when meatballs are done?

They should be browned outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I double the batch?

Yes, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Do I need to line the basket?

It’s not required, but you can use parchment liners for easier cleanup.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Meatballs are a fast, mess-free way to enjoy a comfort food classic with a crispy twist. Whether served solo, with pasta, or in a sandwich, they deliver bold flavor and juicy texture every time. Ideal for busy nights or feeding a crowd, these meatballs might just become your new go-to favorite.