Description
Succulent air fryer meatballs bring Italian comfort to dinnertime with juicy, herbed perfection. Crispy exterior and tender center make these meatballs an irresistible meal you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein Base:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Binding and Texture Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, shredded or finely chopped
Instructions
- Craft a uniform mixture by thoroughly blending ground beef with finely diced onions, breadcrumbs, whisked egg, aromatic Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl.
- Gently shape the seasoned meat mixture into compact, evenly sized spheres approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring consistent sizing for uniform cooking.
- Prepare the air fryer by preheating to 400°F, creating an optimal cooking environment for crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Carefully arrange the formed meatballs in a single, non-overlapping layer within the air fryer basket, allowing adequate circulation for even heating.
- Initiate cooking process and let meatballs roast for 10-12 minutes, implementing a mid-cycle basket shake to promote comprehensive browning and prevent sticking.
- Verify doneness by checking internal temperature reaches 160°F, confirming thorough cooking and food safety.
- Remove meatballs from air fryer and let rest momentarily to redistribute internal juices.
- Plate these succulent morsels alongside preferred accompaniments such as marinara sauce, pasta, or as a standalone appetizer for immediate enjoyment.
Notes
- Experiment with different ground meats like turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option that still delivers delicious flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent tough, dense meatballs; gently combine ingredients until just incorporated.
- Ensure even cooking by using a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety, especially when using ground poultry.
- Enhance meal prep by making larger batches and freezing uncooked meatballs in single layers for quick future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg