1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet or plate. You should get about 20 meatballs.
2. Air Fry the Meatballs:
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the meatballs: Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to allow for even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry: Cook the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. The meatballs should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
3. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat the sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. If desired, add dried basil and garlic powder for extra flavor. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
4. Serve:
- Combine: Once the meatballs are cooked, you can either toss them in the marinara sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Tips for the Perfect Meatballs:
- Even Size: Ensure meatballs are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients until just combined to prevent dense meatballs.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are cooked to the proper temperature.
Conclusion
These Crispy Air Fryer Meatballs with Marinara Sauce are a tasty and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or a hearty snack. The air fryer gives the meatballs a delightful crunch while keeping them tender inside. Pairing them with marinara sauce adds a classic touch that everyone will love. Enjoy these flavorful meatballs with your favorite side dishes or just on their own!