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Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying without compromising on flavor. These compact kitchen appliances use hot air circulation to cook food evenly, resulting in crispy textures and delicious tastes that everyone loves. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, an air fryer can revolutionize your meal prep.

Air Fryer Classic Meatball Bites

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or easy weeknight dinner? These Air Fryer Classic Meatball Bites are your go-to! Juicy and packed with flavor, these meatballs are quick to whip up and perfect for summer cookouts or game day gatherings. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior while keeping them tender inside, making them irresistible. Serve them with marinara for dipping. Save this recipe for later and enjoy delicious meatballs anytime!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal moisture)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 egg, large

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions
 

Prep the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

    Mix the Mixture: With clean hands or a spatula, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

      Form the Meatballs: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a plate or baking sheet. You should yield about 20-24 meatballs.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.

          Cook the Meatballs: Once preheated, arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

            Prepare the Marinara: While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through.

              Serve: Once the meatballs are fully cooked, remove them from the air fryer and serve warm with the marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan, if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6