Print

Air Fryer Italian Meatballs Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 7 reviews

Make juicy and flavorful Italian-style meatballs quickly using an air fryer. These meatballs have a crispy exterior and tender inside, packed with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Perfect served as an appetizer, on pasta, in subs, or meal-prepped for easy dinners.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1 pound ground beef (93% lean recommended)
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 Tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1-2 Tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

  • Marinara sauce
  • Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  2. Soak the breadcrumbs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian bread crumbs and pour the milk over them. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk fully. Meanwhile, mince the shallot and grate the garlic cloves.
  3. Mix the meatball ingredients: Add ground beef, minced shallot, grated garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley into the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until combined. Using a medium cookie scoop, form the mixture into approximately 20 to 22 meatballs, each around 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
  4. Prepare for air frying: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches. Drizzle or brush the tops of the meatballs lightly with olive oil to promote browning and crispness.
  5. Air fry the meatballs: Cook the meatballs at 400°F for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating they are fully cooked. Shake the basket or turn the meatballs halfway through cooking for even browning.
  6. Serve: Serve the meatballs warm, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, alongside marinara sauce. They pair wonderfully with pasta, inside subs, or as a flavorful appetizer or meal prep option.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free bread crumbs if you require a gluten-free version.
  • Make sure to measure the internal temperature of the meatballs to ensure food safety.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor.
  • The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
  • These meatballs can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/air-fryer-italian-meatballs-recipe/