Maggiano’s Meatball Recipe (Copycat)

Recreate the classic taste of Maggiano’s at home with these copycat meatballs. Juicy, flavorful, and simmered in rich marinara, they’re perfect for pasta, subs, or a hearty appetizer.

Bring the flavors of Maggiano’s right into your kitchen with this copycat meatball recipe.

These meatballs are juicy, perfectly seasoned, and simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, stuffing them into a sub, or offering them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they deliver that classic Italian-American comfort food experience without leaving home.

If you love easy meatball recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Beyond Meatballs, Vegan Chickpea Meatballs, Air Fryer Porcupine Meatballs, or Air Fryer Teriyaki Meatballs.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal effort.
• Air fryer makes meatballs crispy without extra oil.
• Delicious melted mozzarella inside each savory meatball.
• Perfect for meal prep or quick family dinners.
• Customizable with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
• Ideal for a tasty low-carb, protein-packed snack.
• Simple ingredients that create a mouthwatering dish.

If you love easy meatball recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Copycat Ikea Meatballs, Air Fryer Cranberry Meatballs, or Air Fryer Buffalo Meatballs.

Maggiano’s Meatball Ingredients

• Lean Ground beef: For a rich, hearty meatball base.
• Breadcrumbs: Add texture and help bind the meat.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor.
• Fresh parsley: For a burst of color and freshness.
• Garlic cloves:  Gives a savory and aromatic punch.
• Large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the meatballs.
• Black pepper: Adds a hint of mild heat.
• Mozzarella cheese provide creamy, melty centers in meatballs.
• Serving: Serve with marinara sauce or on a hoagie roll!

How To Make Maggiano’s Meatballs

Step One: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper.

Step Two: Mix the meat mixture thoroughly, then form into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.

Step Three: Press a mozzarella cube into the center of each meatball.

Step Four: Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F and set cook time for 8-10 minutes. Serve with marinara sauce or place in a hoagie roll for a delicious sandwich.

Maggiano’s Meatball Recipe Tips

• Freeze Before Cooking: Freeze the meatballs for 15-20 minutes before air frying to help keep the cheese inside during cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave space between meatballs in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispy results. Depending on how many meatballs you are making, you may need to cook in batches.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Season the Outside: Lightly season the outside of the meatballs with extra herbs or seasoning for enhanced flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the meatballs hot, as the mozzarella will be gooey and perfect when fresh out of the air fryer.

Storage

• Storing: Store leftover room temperature mozzarella stuffed meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until warm.

Serving Suggestions

Maggiano’s Meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, along with a crispy salad or garlic bread. You could also add a simple pasta, like spaghetti, for a complete meal, or opt for roasted vegetables for a healthier, low-carb option. For a fun twist, place them in a hoagie roll with some melted cheese to make a delicious meatball sub!

They also make a great appetizer, serve with fresh herbs!

Maggiano’s Meatball Recipe Recipe Faqs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives, and they still provide a juicy, tender texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! You can use provolone, cheddar, or even ricotta for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

How do I keep the cheese from oozing out? Freezing the meatballs for 15-20 minutes before cooking helps the cheese stay in place while they cook. For best results, use a cookie scoop.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prep them in advance, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I cook these in the oven instead? Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.

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• BBQ AIR FRYER CHICKEN BREAST
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• AIR FRYER STEAK FAJITAS

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