Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs

Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs are so good, and they make for a great snack, dinner, or lunch! And they are done in less than 20 minutes, from start to finish!

Truthfully, I used to make these in my Slow Cooker all the time before I had my air fryer. Since then, I have been making these for years. They are one of my family’s favorites and are easy to make.

This recipe can not be any more accessible, and once you make them, you will be hooked! They are so good!

If you are looking for some other great Air Fryer Appetizers, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER DRY RUBBED CHICKEN WINGS, AIR FRYER FROZEN FRENCH FRIES WITH FRENCH FRY SEASONING, AIR FRYER BAKED BRIE, and AIR FRYER POTATO WEDGES.

Easy Air Fryer BBQ Meatball Recipe

Dive into the world of effortless cooking with this Easy Air Fryer BBQ Meatball Recipe, a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal.

Whether you need a simple weeknight dinner, a tasty appetizer for your next gathering, or a comforting snack, these BBQ meatballs made in the air fryer are your answer.

They pack a flavorful punch and offer the perfect blend of juiciness and crispiness that can only be achieved in the air fryer. Say goodbye to standing over a hot stove and hello to more free time with this straightforward and delectable recipe.

These meatballs will become a fast favorite in your culinary repertoire, perfect for both cooking novices and seasoned chefs.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

This Air Fryer BBQ Meatball Recipe is bound to become a cherished addition to your cooking routine for several compelling reasons:

• Quick and Convenient: The air fryer significantly reduces cooking time, making this recipe a quick option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Effortlessly Flavorful: With the BBQ sauce adding a rich, smoky sweetness to the meatballs, you get a burst of flavor in every bite without many ingredients.
• Healthier Option: Cooking meatballs in the air fryer requires less oil than traditional frying methods, resulting in a more nutritious dish without compromising taste or texture.
• Perfect Texture: The air fryer ensures the meatballs are beautifully browned and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender.
• Versatile Serving Options: These BBQ meatballs can be a hit as an appetizer, a satisfying addition to a main course, or even a flavorful filling for sandwiches.
• Minimal Cleanup: The air fryer’s cooking basket minimizes mess, making cleanup a breeze and giving you more time to enjoy your meal.

With its convenience, flavor, and versatility, this Air Fryer BBQ Meatball Recipe will surely delight your taste buds and become a go-to for quick and delicious meals.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs

Embark on a culinary journey with this straightforward yet delightful Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs recipe, designed to bring a fusion of flavors to your dining table with minimal effort. Featuring a handful of simple ingredients, this dish promises to deliver meatballs that are not only succulent and flavorful but also a testament to the convenience and versatility of air frying. Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouth-watering dish:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Ground Beef: The foundation of your meatballs, ground beef lends rich flavor and juiciness. Opt for a mix with some fat for the best texture, such as an 80/20 blend.
• Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together, preventing them from falling apart during cooking. They also contribute to the meatballs’ tender texture.
• Egg: Acting as a binding agent, the egg ensures that your meatballs maintain their shape and add moisture, enhancing their tenderness.
• BBQ Sauce: This star ingredient gives the meatballs distinctive smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. Choose your favorite brand or homemade recipe for customization.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a subtle sweetness and crunch, infusing the meatballs with additional layers of flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic cloves introduce a pungent, aromatic element that complements the beef’s meatiness and the BBQ sauce’s sweetness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper elevate the meat’s natural flavors and the meatballs’ savory depth.
• Optional Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or smoked paprika to tailor the meatballs to your taste preferences, adding complexity to the flavor profile.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, making the Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs a perfect addition to any meal occasion.

How To Make BBQ Meatballs In Air Fryer

Making BBQ Meatballs in an air fryer is a straightforward process that results in delicious, juicy meatballs enveloped in a flavorful BBQ glaze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create this mouthwatering dish:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C). You may skip this step if your air fryer model doesn’t require preheating.

Mix the Ingredients: Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl. If desired, add any optional herbs or spices at this time.

Mix everything until well combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent the meatballs from becoming tough.

Form the Meatballs: With clean hands, form the mixture into meatballs. The size is up to you, but meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter typically cook well and evenly in the air fryer.

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket or on the tray, leaving some space between each to ensure they cook evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Cook: Air fry the meatballs at 400 degrees F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes until they are browned outside and no longer pink in the center. Halfway through the cooking time, you can gently turn them to ensure even browning.

Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the meatballs with additional BBQ sauce for a sticky, caramelized finish.

Rest and Serve: Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot as an appetizer with toothpicks, as a main with sides, or over rice or pasta for a hearty meal.

Enjoy your BBQ Meatballs made in the air fryer, a dish that promises to be a hit for its ease of preparation, delicious taste, and versatility. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Recipe Variations

Adding a twist to the classic BBQ meatballs can keep your meals exciting and cater to various tastes. Here are some delicious recipe variations for BBQ Meatballs made in an air fryer:

• Spicy BBQ Meatballs: Amp up the heat by mixing in some finely chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili flakes into your meatball mixture. Alternatively, use a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Center Meatballs: Before forming your meatballs, place a small cube of cheese (mozzarella or cheddar works great) in the center of each meatball. As they cook, you’ll get a deliciously gooey cheesy center.
• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These meats also pair wonderfully with BBQ sauce, offering a lighter alternative.
• Hawaiian BBQ Meatballs: Mix in some finely diced pineapple into your meatball mixture or glaze the meatballs with a pineapple-infused BBQ sauce for a sweet, tangy twist that brings a taste of the tropics.
• Vegetarian Meatballs: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute and ensure your BBQ sauce is vegetarian-friendly. This variation provides a meatless alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs: Wrap each meatball in a slice of bacon before air frying. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and crisp texture that perfectly complements the BBQ glaze.
• Herb-Infused Meatballs: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like parsley, cilantro, or rosemary into your meatball mixture. Herbs add a fresh, aromatic quality that brightens the rich BBQ flavors.
• Smoky BBQ Meatballs: Add a dash of liquid smoke to your meatball mixture for a deeper smoky flavor or choose a smoky BBQ sauce. This gives the meatballs an enhanced barbecue profile, mimicking the taste of outdoor grilling.

Each variation brings its unique twist to the traditional BBQ meatball recipe, allowing you to explore different flavors and textures. Experiment with these ideas or create your own to keep your air fryer meatball game fresh and exciting.

Pro Tips

To ensure your BBQ meatballs in the air fryer turn out perfectly every time, consider these pro tips that can elevate your cooking game:

• Choose the Right Meat: Selecting a mix of meats, such as beef and pork, can enhance the flavor and juiciness of your meatballs. The fat content is crucial for tender, moist meatballs, so aim for a blend with around 20% fat.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs. Use your hands for better control and gentler mixing.
• Uniform Size: Ensure all meatballs are the same size for even cooking. Using a cookie scoop or a measuring spoon can help create uniform balls.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that your meatballs start cooking at the optimal temperature right away, leading to a better sear and even cooking.
• Use Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, consider placing parchment paper in the air fryer basket. Just make sure it doesn’t cover all the vents to allow for proper air circulation.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the meatballs in batches if necessary to ensure there’s enough space for the air to circulate freely. This helps to achieve an even cook and a nice crust on all sides.
• Turning Meatballs: Halfway through cooking, gently turn the meatballs to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Use silicone-tipped tongs to avoid breaking them.
• Sauce at the Right Time: If you’re adding BBQ sauce, consider brushing it on during the last few minutes of cooking. This prevents the sauce from burning and allows it to caramelize nicely.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your meatballs even more tender and flavorful.
• Internal Temperature Check: Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for poultry or 160°F (71°C) for beef or pork. Using a meat thermometer can prevent undercooking or overcooking.
• Experiment with Sauces: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of BBQ sauce. Experiment with different flavors, such as honey BBQ, spicy, or smoky, to find your perfect match.
• Make Ahead: You can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This can save time and makes the recipe even more convenient.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful BBQ meatballs made in your air fryer, sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Faq’s

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes. There’s no need to thaw them first, but ensure they’re cooked through before serving.

Do I need to flip the meatballs during cooking? Yes, it’s a good idea to flip the meatballs halfway through the cooking time. This ensures they brown evenly and cook thoroughly on all sides.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free? Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or a substitute like almond flour to bind the meatballs, and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

How do I know when the meatballs are done? The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or pork, or 165°F (74°C) for poultry, measured with a meat thermometer. They should be browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center.

Can I prepare the meatball mixture in advance? Yes, you can mix the ingredients and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before you plan to cook them.

How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer basket? Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or use parchment paper with holes in it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

What can I serve with these BBQ meatballs? They pair well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. They’re also great as an appetizer with toothpicks.

How should I store leftover meatballs, and how long will they last? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, oven, or back in the air fryer until warmed through.

Can I freeze cooked meatballs? Yes, cooked meatballs freeze well. Let them cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Is it better to use homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce? Both work well, but homemade BBQ sauce allows you to customize the flavor and sweetness/spiciness level to your liking. Store-bought is a convenient and quick option.

Can I make these meatballs with other types of meat? Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats can be used. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat and its fat content.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER GARLIC BREAD
• AIR FRYER FROZEN FISH STICKS
• EASY AIR FRYER LEMON CRAB CAKES
• AIR FRYER HARD BOILED EGGS
• AIR FRYER AVOCADO FRENCH FRIES

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