Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
- Shape the Meatballs:
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. You should get about 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Arrange the Meatballs:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
- Place the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not touch. You may need to cook in batches.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- The meatballs are done when they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Transfer and Serve:
- Remove the cooked meatballs from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Serve immediately with your favorite pasta and marinara sauce, or use in a meatball sub, or as an appetizer with dipping sauces.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta:
- Serve the meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- As an Appetizer:
- Serve the meatballs with toothpicks and a side of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping.
- In a Sub Sandwich:
- Place the meatballs in a hoagie roll, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Tricks
- Meat Blend: Using a mix of ground beef and pork adds richness and flavor. You can also use all beef or a combination of beef, pork, and veal for a traditional Italian blend.
- Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cheese: For extra flavor, try adding 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the meatball mixture.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Italian-Style Meatballs are a delicious, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for pasta dinners, appetizers, or meatball subs, this versatile recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the rich Italian flavors and the convenience of air frying with this delightful dish!