Air-Fryer Italian Meatballs
These Air-Fryer Italian Meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with traditional Italian flavor—without the need for frying in oil. They're quick to make, easy to freeze, and perfect for everything from pasta night to party appetizers.
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 391kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 or mixed with pork/veal)
- ½ cup Breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino, grated
- 1 large Egg
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or 1 teaspoon dried, minced
- 2 tablespoons Milk optional, for softer texture
- ¾ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
- Olive oil spray for the air fryer basket
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. (optional step)
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, milk (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- With lightly oiled hands, roll the mixture into 1½-inch (about golf ball-sized) meatballs.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil (optional). Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, leaving a bit of space between each.
- Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 12-18 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve warm as-is, or toss in a sauce, sprinkle with more cheese, or enjoy as appetizers.
Notes
- You can make these ahead and refrigerate the uncooked meatballs for up to 1 day.
- Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months—cook frozen meatballs a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
Nutrition
Calories: 391kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 132mg | Sodium: 733mg | Potassium: 386mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 298IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 142mg | Iron: 3mg
