Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs

Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs is a quick and easy twist on a classic favorite. The meatballs are cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, while the pasta is perfectly cooked and topped with rich marinara sauce. This meal is a satisfying, flavorful option for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with the family.

Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs is a fun and easy twist on a classic Italian dish, made faster and healthier in the air fryer.

The meatballs cook to crispy perfection while staying juicy on the inside, and the spaghetti is cooked just right.

Served with your favorite marinara sauce, this dish is a satisfying, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

• Ridiculously Easy: No fancy skills or equipment needed; even a kitchen newbie can pull this off.
• Big Flavor, Minimal Effort: Every bite tastes like you spent hours cooking, but you didn’t.
• Family & Crowd Pleaser: Guaranteed to disappear fast at dinner tables, parties, or potlucks.
• Customizable Magic: Swap ingredients or add your favorites without breaking the recipe.
• Comfort Food Vibes: Perfectly satisfying, soul-warming, and just a little addictive.

Ingredients Needed

• Eggs: Bind meatballs together, ensuring they hold shape.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds subtle tang and depth to meatballs.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: Season to enhance natural flavors.
• Panko: Light, airy breadcrumbs for crispy meatballs.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth to meatballs and sauce.
• Grated Parmesan: Brings salty, nutty flavor to meatballs.
• Flat-Leaf Parsley: Fresh, peppery herb contrasting rich flavors.
• Sweet Italian Sausage: Sweet, savory addition for depth and complexity.
• Ground Beef: Provides hearty texture and flavor for meatballs.
• Spaghetti: Classic, chewy pasta that complements the meatballs.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, fresh tomatoes add color and freshness.
• Red Chile: Adds subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
• Olive Oil: Rich, fruity oil for sautéing and texture.
• Marinara Sauce: Classic Italian sauce, perfect for pasta and meatballs.
• Basil: Fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish beautifully.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Combine the meatball ingredients and shape into 20 meatballs.

Step Two: Add the meatballs to the Air Fryer in a single layer. Set cook time for 5-7 minutes. If necessary, cook in batches.

Step Three: While the meatballs are cooking, start cooking the pasta according to the box.

Step Four In a small bowl, combine the tomatoes, garlic and oil. Add salt and pepper. Pour over the meatballs in the Air Fryer and cook until cooked through.

Step Five: Toss the meatballs together with pasta sauce and then combine with the pasta. Serve with added parmesan and basil.

Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Meatballs: Frozen or fresh both work, but try pre-cooked frozen meatballs to save time and ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Give the meatballs space. Crowding can make them steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use a Sauce That Sticks: Thick marinara or spaghetti sauce clings better than thin sauces. Toss the meatballs gently with sauce after air frying.
• Cook Noodles Separately: Air fryers don’t handle pasta, so cook spaghetti on the stovetop or microwave while the meatballs crisp.
• Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan at the end for melty, golden perfection.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes can amp up flavor without extra effort.

Storing Instructions

• Storing: Store leftover Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezing: You can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Place them in airtight containers or freezer bags for easy reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or air fryer until heated through. If reheating in the air fryer, cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for crispy meatballs and hot sauce.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs

Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Serve it with a fresh green salad, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the meatballs and pasta. You could also add garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus, for extra texture and flavor.

Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe Faqs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen? Absolutely! Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape in the air fryer. Adjust cooking time slightly if they’re larger than typical frozen ones.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer? Preheating helps achieve a crisp exterior on the meatballs, but it’s not strictly necessary. Add 2–3 extra minutes if you skip preheating.

Can I cook the spaghetti in the air fryer too? Nope. The air fryer isn’t made for boiling pasta. Cook spaghetti separately on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What sauce works best? Thick marinara or spaghetti sauce is ideal. Thin sauces won’t cling as well and can make the dish watery.

Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the meatballs and sauce in advance. Store separately and air fry the meatballs just before serving for the best texture.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Bagel Dogs
• Air Fryer Soft Pretzels
• Easy Air Fryer Pizza Bagel Bites
• Air Fryer Copycat Applebee’s Cheese Sticks

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