Very soft air fryer meatballs: quick and easy recipe with beef

Name: Very soft air fryer meatballs: quick and easy recipe with beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 12 oz ground beef; 1 medium egg; ⅓ cup breadcrumbs; 3½ tbsp milk; 1 small onion ( ½ cup finely chopped); Extra-virgin olive oil to taste (optional); Parsley to taste; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

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Main Dish

Very Easy

25 min

257 Kcal

Air fryer meatballs are one of those recipes that feel almost too good to be true: juicy and tender on the inside, perfectly crispy on the outside, and ready in minutes. They’re a total win for busy weeknights, but also work perfectly as a fun appetizer or finger food for parties. Light, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients, these beef meatballs deliver all the comfort of a classic homemade dish, all without the extra oil or mess. Once you try them, don’t be surprised if they end up on your weekly menu!

Ingredients

12 oz ground beef
1 medium egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs
3½ tbsp milk
1 small onion ( ½ cup finely chopped)
Extra-virgin olive oil to taste (optional)
Parsley to taste
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Materials

Air fryer (here COSORI Turbo Tower Pro Smart 10.8L)
Bowl
Oil spray
Cutting board
Knife

Preparation

Preparation10 min

Cook time15 min

Finely chop the onion with a sharp knife.
Do the same thing with parsley.
Combine ground meat, egg, bread crumbs, chopped onion and parsley in a bowl. Add salt, pepper and a drizzle of oil (optional). Then mix until combined.
Add the milk and continue mixing until smooth, soft and slightly moist.
Take portions and form into medium-sized balls, trying to keep them even. Arrange as you go on a plate or tray.
Arrange the meatballs in the basket of the air fryer without overlapping them, leaving space between each one. Lightly spray with extra virgin olive oil.
Bake at 350°F/180°C for about 15 minutes. Gently move the basket every 5 minutes to encourage even browning. Continue cooking until your meatballs are well browned and cooked through on the inside as well.
Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve immediately piping hot.

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FAQ ❓

What is the secret to soft and crispy meatballs in air fryer?

The secret to soft inside and crispy outside meatballs in air fryer lies in the right balance of meat, egg, breadcrumbs and liquid. A well-blended, slightly moist batter ensures a juicy core, while cooking at 350°F/180°C for about 15 minutes allows a golden crust to form without drying out the inside. It is important not to overload the basket to promote even baking.

What is the role of milk in the mixture of meatballs in an air fryer?

Milk has a key function in beef meatball dough because it softens the breadcrumbs and retains moisture during cooking. This step helps to achieve soft and fluffy meatballs even in air fryer, preventing them from being dry or firm after cooking.

Can I prepare meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator?

Yes, you can prepare meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days inside an airtight container. To reheat them and keep the crispness, you should use the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F/180°C. This way they will come back as hot and fragrant as when they were just made.

Can meatballs be frozen?

Yes, meatballs can be frozen either raw or already cooked. If you freeze them raw, arrange them on a tray well apart and then transfer them to a food-grade bag. If, on the other hand, you freeze already cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before storing them in the freezer. To cook or reheat them, you can use an air fryer directly, increasing the cooking time slightly.

What variations can I make for the meatball recipe?

You can substitute beef with chicken, turkey or a mix of meats to make light and flavorful meatballs. For a tastier version you can add grated cheese, herbs or spices. There are also gluten-free variants using gluten-free breadcrumbs, ideal for those with intolerances.

Is it possible to cook meatballs in the oven instead of in an air fryer?

Yes, meatballs can also be cooked in a static oven at 390°F/200°C for about 20 to 25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking for even browning. However, air frying allows for a more pronounced crispiness in less time and with less oil.