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Juicy Air Fryer Italian Meatballs Recipe: Crispy Outside, Tender Inside

A close-up of six perfectly browned Air Fryer Italian Meatballs resting on a white plate.
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Cook tender, flavorful Italian meatballs in your air fryer for a quick, less messy meal. This method yields a crispy exterior without deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (non-stick)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes to soften the breadcrumbs.
  2. Add the ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
  3. Mix the ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, or the meatballs will become tough.
  4. Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls (about 18-20 meatballs).
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  7. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which causes steaming instead of crisping.
  8. Air fry for 10 minutes.
  9. Carefully flip the meatballs.
  10. Continue to air fry for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the exterior is browned.
  11. Remove from the air fryer. You can serve immediately or add them to your favorite marinara sauce to finish cooking and absorb flavor.

Notes

  • For the juiciest results, use a mix of ground beef and pork.
  • If you are cooking frozen meatballs, increase the initial cook time by 4-6 minutes and check for doneness carefully.
  • To prevent sticking, ensure you spray the basket well or use parchment paper designed for air fryers.
  • If you prefer saucy meatballs, cook them completely in the air fryer first, then transfer them to simmering sauce for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://magazinemeal.com/air-fryer-italian-meatballs/