1. Make the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, and seasonings.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined (don’t overmix, or they’ll be tough).
2. Shape the Meatballs
- Roll into 1-inch balls using slightly damp hands.
- Place on a tray or plate.
3. Air Fry the Meatballs
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange meatballs in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C) inside.
4. Serve
- Serve with marinara sauce, spaghetti, or on toasted rolls with melted cheese.
Tips for Juicy Meatballs
- Mix beef + pork for the juiciest results.
- Add a splash of milk to the breadcrumb mixture for extra tenderness.
- Don’t overwork the meat — just mix until combined.
- Test one meatball before cooking all, so you can adjust seasoning.
Serving Ideas
- Classic: with spaghetti and tomato sauce.
- Party-style: with BBQ or teriyaki glaze as appetizers.
- Sub sandwich: on hoagie rolls with marinara and mozzarella.
- Low-carb: over zucchini noodles or with roasted veggies.
Final Thoughts
These Juicy Air Fryer Meatballs From Scratch prove that comfort food can be quick, healthy, and delicious. With a crispy outside and tender, flavorful inside, they’re versatile enough for weeknight dinners or party platters. Once you try them, you’ll never want to go back to frying!