Go Back
Easy Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe with Italian Seasoning

Easy Air Fryer Meatballs

Tender, juicy beef meatballs seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, then cooked quickly in the air fryer. They are perfect with marinara, pasta, subs, rice, or as an appetizer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb (454 g) Ground beef, preferably 85-90% lean
  • 1 Large egg
  • 1/2 cup (about 55 g) Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (about 25 g) Finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
Optional Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Onion, finely grated or minced

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes, unless your appliance manual says preheating is unnecessary.
  2. Add the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional parsley and onion to a large bowl. Mix gently just until everything is combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs, making approximately 16 to 20. Chill for 15 to 30 minutes if desired.
  4. Lightly spray the air-fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the meatballs in one layer with space between them.
  5. Air-fry at 400°F for 9 to 12 minutes, turning or shaking the basket halfway through. Larger meatballs may need 12 to 15 minutes.
  6. Check the center with an instant-read thermometer and cook until the meatballs reach 160°F (71°C). Rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches so hot air can circulate. For a richer variation, replace the 1 pound of ground beef with 1/2 pound ground beef and 1/2 pound Italian sausage. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat until hot throughout.