Air Fryer Soft and Juicy Meatballs with Spaghetti
Making meatballs in an air fryer is a game changer! They cook evenly, stay juicy on the inside, and develop a slight crisp on the outside. Paired with classic spaghetti and marinara sauce, this dish is a quick and delicious meal for any day of the week. Here’s how to make soft and juicy meatballs in your air fryer.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
For the Spaghetti and Sauce:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil and extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate or tray. You should get about 12-15 meatballs.
Step 3: Air Fry the Meatballs
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Place the meatballs in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil.
Step 5: Heat the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the marinara sauce. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and let them simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Plate the spaghetti and top with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- For extra moisture: Use a mix of beef and pork, or add a small amount of ricotta cheese to the mixture.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook in batches if needed.
- Want a crispy crust? Lightly spray the meatballs with oil before air frying.
- Make ahead: You can freeze the raw or cooked meatballs for later use.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious, homemade spaghetti and meatballs dish with minimal effort, all thanks to your air fryer!
