How long do you cook meatballs in the air fryer?

For raw homemade air fryer meatballs, cook at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes. Flip halfway through for even browning. If your meatballs are on the larger side (2 inches or more), add a few extra minutes and always check for doneness at the center 165°F is the magic number.

Are meatballs better in the air fryer or oven?

Honestly? It depends on what you're after. Air fryer meatballs cook faster, use less oil, and get beautifully crisp edges without drying out. Oven-baked meatballs are great for big batches but can take twice as long. If you want speed, texture, and fewer dishes, the air fryer wins.

How long to cook raw meatballs in air fryer Reddit?

Reddit users agree: 375°F for 10–12 minutes is the sweet spot for raw meatballs. Some suggest a quick oil spray to promote browning. The key tip? Don’t overcrowd the basket. Give them space, flip halfway, and check internal temp 165°F means they’re safe and juicy.

How long to cook frozen meatballs in an air fryer at 400 degrees?

If they’re already cooked and just need reheating, 8 to 10 minutes at 400°F should do it. Shake the basket halfway through for even crisping. For frozen raw meatballs, lower the temp to 375°F and cook 13 to 16 minutes, flipping once. Always double-check for doneness with a thermometer.

Can you stack meatballs in the air fryer?

Technically, yes but it’s not ideal. Overcrowding restricts airflow, which means uneven cooking. If you're tight on time, work in batches. Layering is better suited for reheating already-cooked meatballs, not raw ones.

What temp should meatballs be cooked to in the air fryer?

Always aim for 165°F internally, regardless of meat type. Use a digital thermometer and test the thickest meatball. Don’t judge by color especially if you’re using pork or turkey, which can stay slightly pink even when fully cooked.

Air Fryer Meatballs Best 2025 Recipe for Juicy, Crispy Bites

Name: Air Fryer Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or mix of beef/pork); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb); 1 egg; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chopped parsley; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: mozzarella cubes for stuffing; Olive oil spray

Description

Juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, and ready in under 15 minutes, these air fryer meatballs are your weeknight hero. Perfect as an appetizer, pasta topping, or meal prep protein, they’re fast, flavorful, and freezer-friendly.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef or turkey (or mix of beef/pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
1 egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: mozzarella cubes for stuffing
Olive oil spray

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Instructions

Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes.
In a bowl, combine meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
Scoop mixture (1.5 tbsp each) and roll into balls. Optionally stuff with mozzarella.
Spray air fryer basket lightly with oil.
Place meatballs in a single layer with space between them.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Check internal temp; should reach 165°F.
Serve immediately or cool for storage.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking. For gluten-free, use oat flour or certified GF breadcrumbs. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American