Crispy Air Fryer Meatballs with Savory Herbs and Spices

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Let me tell you about my latest kitchen obsession: Air Fryer Meatballs. I can’t even count how many times I’ve made this dish in the past few weeks! It’s become a staple in my house, and honestly, it’s not just because they’re deliciously crispy. They’re also bursting with savory herbs and spices that make every bite a flavor explosion. If you’re looking for a quick dinner option that’s healthy and easy to whip up, trust me, you’ve landed in the right place. This recipe is a total game-changer, and I can’t wait to share all the juicy details with you!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: These meatballs are ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs and spices creates a taste that is simply irresistible.
  • Healthier Option: Cooking in the air fryer means less oil, so you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.
  • Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, toss them in pasta, or enjoy them on their own.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

The Secret to Perfect Air Fryer Meatballs

The secret to achieving the perfect Air Fryer Meatballs lies in the combination of quality meat and the right blend of herbs. I’ve found that using a mix of ground beef and pork gives the meatballs a juicy texture and adds depth of flavor. One insider tip? Don’t skip the breadcrumbs! They help keep the meatballs moist and add that delightful crispy exterior we all love. And remember, mixing the ingredients gently is key—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. I promise, if you follow these tips, you’ll be a meatball master in no time!

Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers

“These air fryer meatballs are a game-changer! I made them for a family dinner, and everyone went back for seconds!” – Sarah M.

“I never knew meatballs could be this good! The herbs really bring out the flavors. I’ll definitely be making these again.” – Jason T.

“So quick and easy! I made them for meal prep, and they are perfect for lunch. Thank you for this amazing recipe!” – Emily R.

Creative Variations to Try

  • Italian Style: Add grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for a classic flavor.
  • BBQ Meatballs: Mix in barbecue sauce and serve with a tangy dipping sauce.
  • Spicy Sriracha: Incorporate sriracha into the meat mixture for a kick!
  • Herbed Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option while keeping the flavor.

Bonus: For a fun twist, try adding chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix for an extra flavor punch!

FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even finely chopped vegetables as a substitute.

Storage/Serving Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, or toss in pasta for a complete meal.

Perfect Occasions for Air Fryer Meatballs

  • Game Day snacks that will impress your friends.
  • Family dinner when you need something quick but delicious.
  • Potluck gatherings where everyone will be asking for the recipe.
  • Meal prep for a healthy week ahead.
  • Movie night treat that’s better than store-bought snacks.

The Complete Recipe

Thank you for sticking with me through all the delicious details! Now let’s get to the recipe so you can start enjoying these amazing Air Fryer Meatballs yourself.

Air Fryer Meatballs

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten

Tip: For added moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of milk to the meat mixture. This helps keep the meatballs tender!

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. This will ensure your meatballs get that perfect crispy exterior right from the get-go.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined. Remember, overmixing can make your meatballs tough, so be gentle!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. You should be able to make around 20-24 meatballs. Place them on a plate as you go.

Step 4: Air Fry the Meatballs

Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. The aroma will be irresistible! Enjoy these meatballs on their own, or with your favorite sauce and sides.

Nutrition Info: Approximately 150 calories per meatball, with 10g protein, 8g fat, and 2g carbohydrates.

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Final Thoughts

I can’t express how thrilled I am for you to try these Air Fryer Meatballs. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with flavors that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or a fun gathering, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking! You won’t regret it!

Crispy Air Fryer Meatballs

Crispy Air Fryer Meatballs


  • Author: James Mitchell


  • Total Time:
    22 mins


  • Yield:
    20-24 meatballs

Discover the ease of making crispy air fryer meatballs infused with savory herbs and spices—quick, simple, and delicious for any meal.


Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  5. Remove from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 12 mins
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American
  • Method: Oven

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