These Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs are juicy and full of flavor, making them a perfect quick dinner option. With just ground meat, herbs, and spices, they are super easy to make!
I love making these meatballs because they’re ready in no time and the air fryer keeps them nice and tender. Serve them with pasta, or just enjoy them as a tasty snack! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use ground beef for great flavor and tenderness. A beef and pork mix adds even more depth. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, but make sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
Italian Breadcrumbs: These add a nice texture and flavor to the meatballs. If you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs work fine. You can even make your own by grinding stale bread into crumbs!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re out of cheese, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a burst of freshness. If you don’t have parsley, basil or oregano can be good alternatives. Dried herbs can work too, but reduce the amount since they’re more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Are Tender and Juicy?
A key step is to mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the meatballs. Also, adding a bit of milk helps keep them moist, so don’t skip it! Shaping them gently into 1.5-inch balls ensures even cooking and a nice bite.
- Don’t pack the mixture too tightly when forming the meatballs.
- Preheating the air fryer helps them cook evenly.
- Flipping or shaking the basket halfway through ensures they brown nicely on all sides.
Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray, for air fryer
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. With a total time of just under 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious, homemade Italian meatballs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or your meat mix), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix it all together gently. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Next, take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls that are about 1.5 inches in diameter. This should make around 12 meatballs, but feel free to adjust the size if you want smaller or larger ones!
3. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps cook the meatballs evenly and gives them a nice brown exterior.
4. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Spray the basket of your air fryer lightly with olive oil spray. This will prevent the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup easier.
5. Air Fry the Meatballs:
Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. This allows for even cooking and browning.
6. Cook Until Perfect:
Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Make sure to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to help them cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they are browned on the outside and fully cooked inside!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the meatballs from the air fryer and garnish with some fresh parsley. Serve them warm with marinara sauce, over pasta, or as a delicious meatball sub!
Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make Italian meatballs prepared right in the air fryer!
FAQ for Easy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great lean alternative. Just be cautious not to overcook them, or they may dry out. You might also want to add a little extra moisture, like a bit more milk or olive oil, to keep them juicy!
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well! Just pack them in a freezer-safe container or bag and they can keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs ahead of time! Shape them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can also freeze them uncooked and air fry directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
What Sauce Goes Well with These Meatballs?
Marinara sauce is a classic pairing! You can also try them with Alfredo sauce, or serve them in a meatball sub with melted cheese. They’re versatile and taste great with your favorite pasta sauce!
