Simple Meatball Recipe Air Fryer: Quick, Healthy

Meatballs are a classic comfort food, loved for their versatility and flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a main course, this Simple Meatball Recipe Air Fryer is a game-changer for preparing delicious, crispy, and evenly cooked meatballs in less time. Using an air fryer not only makes cooking easier but also ensures that your meatballs are healthier compared to deep-fried alternatives. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to perfect this recipe.

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Introduction

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a way to achieve crispy textures with minimal oil. This Simple Meatball Recipe Air Fryer is perfect for those who want a quick, easy, and mess-free way to enjoy juicy meatballs. The recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge, and it’s customizable based on your preferences. Whether you’re making these meatballs for pasta night, a party platter, or meal prepping, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

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Recipe Details

• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Course: Appetizer, Main Course
• Servings: 4 (16 meatballs)
• Calories: 200 calories per serving (approximately)

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

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Ingredients

To make these air-fried meatballs, you’ll need:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or a mix of ground beef and pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings or Additions:

• Marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves
• Additional grated Parmesan for garnish

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Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small spoon or cookie scoop for shaping meatballs
• Tongs

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 320mg

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Shape the Meatballs

• Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
• This recipe yields around 16 meatballs, but you can adjust the size based on your preference.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

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

4. Cook the Meatballs

• Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a small amount of cooking spray or brush it with oil to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. This allows for even cooking.
• Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. Rest and Serve

• Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes.
• Serve them hot with marinara sauce, spaghetti, or as part of a sub sandwich.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the ingredients too much can lead to dense meatballs. Gently combine until the ingredients are just incorporated.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: This ensures evenly sized meatballs that cook at the same rate.
• Test a Meatball: If you’re unsure about seasoning, cook a small piece of the mixture first to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
• Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease your air fryer basket or use parchment paper designed for air fryers.

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Why Choose the Air Fryer for Meatballs?

The air fryer cooks meatballs quickly and evenly, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. It also requires minimal oil, making this cooking method healthier than pan-frying or deep-frying. Cleanup is easier, and you can cook in batches for meal prep or larger gatherings.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for the beef and pork combination.
• Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
• Spices and Herbs: Experiment with flavors by adding cumin, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the mixture.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs: Pair with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a traditional Italian meal.
• Meatball Subs: Place meatballs in a sub roll, top with marinara sauce and cheese, and broil until the cheese melts.
• Appetizer Platter: Serve the meatballs with toothpicks and dipping sauces like marinara, garlic aioli, or barbecue sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Simple Meatball Recipe Air Fryer is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or parties. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional fried meatballs and retains all the flavors and textures we love. The recipe is beginner-friendly, adaptable, and produces meatballs that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.

So, fire up your air fryer and give this recipe a try. You’ll wonder how you ever made meatballs without it!