These quick and easy Air fryer frozen meatballs are a mouth-watering treat that's perfectly seasoned, juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. They are a convenient snack or meal option that your readers can make for any occasion.
With the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and tenderness on the inside, these air-fried meatballs will leave you craving more. Get ready to unlock the secret to effortlessly creating a delectable meal that will impress both family and friends.
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Reasons Why You'll Love This Recipe
This easy dinner always comes out crispy on the outside and tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked inside
It's a quick snack or quick meal that can be cooked faster than homemade meatballs
It's a great option and an easy meal to cook on a busy weekday
Takes less time to cook compared to raw meatballs
Very affordable, tasty, and versatile
It’s very kid friendly and can be made in just minutes
The meatballs go really well with sauces and dips
It’s a quick appetizer and can also be a main dish
Key Ingredients
Frozen meatballs: I usually use homestyle meatballs or Italian meatballs. This recipe also works for meatballs that aren’t made of beef.
Oil: The recipe calls for you to lightly brush or spray the meatballs with oil but you don't have to. Feel free to use your favorite oil. I like using olive oil.
Sauce: Using a dipping sauce is optional but essential in my home.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Using a brush or cooking spray, oil the bottom of the air fryer basket or air fryer tray and then add the frozen meatballs in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Lightly brush or spray the meatballs with oil and air fry them at 370 degrees f for a cook time of 10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the cook so that they can cook evenly.
The air fryer meatballs are ready when they turn golden brown and are heated all the way through.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Frozen meatballs are fully cooked when the internal temperature of the meatballs is 165 degrees f. You can check the temperature of the meatballs using a meat thermometer or instant-read thermometer.
You don't need to use oil for this meatball recipe. I use it because I like my meatballs nicely browned and crispy.
For easy cleanup, you can use aluminum foil or air fryer parchment paper which you can get from just about any grocery store.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Place your leftover meatballs in an airtight container or ziplock bag before putting them in the fridge.
Substitution and Addition Ideas
You can use frozen turkey meatballs, chicken, ikea meatballs, and even vegan meatballs with this beef meatballs recipe.
Grape jelly sauce, marinara sauce, sweet chili sauce, honey garlic sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, sweet and sour sauce, tomato sauce, sweet and sour sauce, tomato basil sauce, and buffalo sauce all go well with these meatballs. Feel free to use your favorite sauce.
Recipe FAQs
My frozen meatballs are a little bigger than normal. What should I do?
Cook larger meatballs for an additional 2-3 minutes.
What dish goes well with these air-fried meatballs?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, a sub sandwich, soup, or egg noodles pair well with these meatballs.
Is it okay to stack my frozen meatballs?
No, I don't recommend stacking your frozen meatballs. Cooking them in a single layer will ensure that they turn nice and crisp, and get cooked evenly at the same time.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, these tender meatballs can be made ahead of time. The best way to store them is to put them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Do I need to thaw my meatballs before cooking them?
No, you don't need to thaw your meatballs before cooking them in the air fryer.
This time-saving cooking method will not only simplify your busy lifestyle but will also make sure that you savor every bite of these flavorful delights.
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Recipe
Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs
Equipment
- Air Fryer I used the Gourmia 8 quart for this recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
- Oil spray
- Sauce, optional
Instructions
- Using a brush or cooking spray, oil the bottom of the air fryer basket or air fryer tray and then add the frozen meatballs in a single layer.
- Lightly brush or spray the meatballs with oil and air fry them at 370 degrees f for 10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the cook so that they can cook evenly.
- The meatballs are ready when they turn golden brown and are heated all the way through.
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