Say goodbye to greasy stovetop cooking and hello to perfectly cooked meatballs made in the air fryer! This Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe delivers juicy, tender meatballs with a golden-brown crust in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, as an appetizer, or in a sandwich, these meatballs are versatile, quick, and absolutely delicious.

With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even party appetizers. The air fryer ensures the meatballs are evenly cooked while keeping them juicy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Meatballs

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

Quick and Easy:
These meatballs are ready in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute appetizers.
Juicy and Flavorful:
The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the meatballs a golden, slightly crispy exterior.
Versatile:
Enjoy these meatballs with pasta, in a sub sandwich, as a party appetizer, or on their own with dipping sauce.
Healthier Option:
Cooking in the air fryer reduces the need for excess oil, making these meatballs a lighter alternative to pan-fried or baked versions.
Perfect Every Time:
The air fryer cooks the meatballs evenly, so you never have to worry about raw centers or overcooked edges.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Meatballs

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create flavorful, tender meatballs:

1. Ground Meat

Use ground beef, ground pork, ground turkey, or a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.

2. Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs bind the meatballs and help them stay tender. Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well.

3. Egg

An egg helps bind the ingredients together and keeps the meatballs moist.

4. Parmesan Cheese

Grated parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor to the meatballs.

5. Garlic and Onion

Minced garlic and finely diced onion provide aromatic depth and flavor.

6. Seasonings

Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper enhance the overall flavor of the meatballs.

Optional Add-ins and Variations

Spicy Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Herbs: Mix in fresh parsley or basil for a fresh, herby flavor.
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

How to Make Air Fryer Meatballs

Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked meatballs every time:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

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

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion the mixture and roll into evenly sized balls, about 1½ inches in diameter.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite sauce, pasta, or as an appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes:

With Pasta: Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal.
In a Sub Sandwich: Add to a hoagie roll with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a meatball sub.
As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a side of marinara or BBQ sauce for dipping.
On Rice or Quinoa: Pair with a grain and roasted veggies for a hearty and healthy meal.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Meatballs

Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safely cooked meatballs.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and crisping.
Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the meatballs halfway ensures they’re evenly browned on all sides.
Make it Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for quick meals later.