Air Fryer Vegan Meatballs

Do you love vegan meatballs? If so, you’re going to love this air fryer vegan meatball recipe. They’re easy to make, and they taste delicious. Plus, they’re a healthy alternative to traditional meatballs. So why not give them a try? You won’t be disappointed!

Cooks who are looking for a vegan-friendly way to make meatballs can do so with an air fryer. Air frying is a healthy cooking method that doesn’t use any oil, and the results are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These vegan meatballs are made with chickpeas, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then air fried until golden brown. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or over pasta for a delicious meal.

What Are Vegan Meatballs?

If you’re anything like me, the words “vegan meatballs” probably conjure up a mental image of a dry, hockey puck-sized glob of tofu or seitan. But trust me when I say that vegan meatballs don’t have to be anything like that! In fact, they can be downright delicious. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, main course, or party food, vegan meatballs are a great alternative to traditional meat-based recipes. So what are vegan meatballs? Read on to find out.

Today we’ll be taking a look at one of my favorite vegan dishes – vegan meatballs! These savory little orbs are perfect as an appetizer or main course, and they’re really easy to make. Let’s get started!

Why Make Vegan Meatballs In The Air Fryer

Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to make vegan meatballs? If so, then you should definitely try making them in the air fryer! Air frying is a great way to cook food without using a lot of oil, and it results in wonderfully crispy meatballs. Plus, the air fryer is a small appliance that doesn’t take up much counter space, so it’s perfect for people who want to reduce their kitchen clutter. If you’re not sure how to make vegan meatballs in the air fryer, don’t worry – I’ll show you how

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Vegan Meatballs

Whether you’re new to the air fryer or a seasoned pro, there’s no doubt that this kitchen appliance is a game changer. And when it comes to vegan cooking, the air fryer is a true powerhouse. These days, there are so many delicious plant-based recipes that can be made in an air fryer – including vegan meatballs.

• Ground Flax Seed: Make sure to soak them, before using them in this recipe.
• Onions: Finely chop, this will add a lot of flavors, to your vegan meatballs.
• Mushrooms: A great way to add some meaty texture to the meatballs.
• Minced Garlic: Adds a lot of flavors, to your meatballs.
• Chickpeas: Make sure you either use cooked chickpeas, or canned chickpeas. Both have been cooked.
• Rolled Oats: Make sure to use rolled oats, rather than Instant Oats, or Steel Cut Oats.
• Tomato Paste: Adds some moisture and flavor to your meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: If you want to make gluten-free vegan meatballs, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs as well.
• Walnuts: Finely chopped.
• Vegetable Oil: To saute the vegetables.
• Seasonings/Spices: Basil, Oregano, Crushed Red Pepper, Salt, and Black Pepper

How To Make Vegan Air Fryer Meatballs

Place flax in a small bowl with the 5 tablespoons of water and set aside for 10 minutes to gel.  Peel and finely chop the onions.  Place in a large skillet with optional vegetable oil or a little bit of water.  Cook on medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes.  

Wash the mushrooms and chop them into small pieces and add them to the onion mixture and cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes. Add the chopped garlic with the remaining 5 minutes of cook time.  Set aside to cool.

Place chickpeas into a food processor and pulse into very small chunks (almost smooth but leave some texture). 

Place all of the ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix well and evenly.  If there is time you can place the mixture into the refrigerator and let stand for 20-30 minutes or even overnight. 

Take one ¼ cup scoop of the mixture and form it into a meatball.  Repeat until the mixture is finished roughly 14-16 meatballs. 

Place into the air fry for 12 to 14 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit.  Let cool for 5-10 minutes and serve.

Substitution ideas

• Breadcrumbs: If you want to make this recipe Keto or low-carb you can either use almond flour. You can also use crushed pork rinds.
• Gluten-Free Recipe: If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute it for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure that all of the other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Mushrooms: If you want to make denser meatballs, you can use dried mushrooms, as an add-in, just make sure that you add them to water, before adding them to the meatball mixture.
• Seasonings: You can add any of your favorite seasonings! I used traditional meatball seasonings, but you can add some spice, by adding some ground cumin, curry powder, or even garam masala.

Freezing The Air Fried Vegan Meatballs

If you’re anything like me, you love a good vegan meatball. And if you air fry them, they’re even better! The only trouble is that they can be a bit time-consuming to make. But what if I told you there was an easier way?

You can freeze them! Just cook the meatballs, as called for in the recipe below, and then let them cool completely, and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. When you’re ready to eat them, just pop them in the air fryer and reheat them!

Sauce Ideas For Vegan Meatballs

OK, so you’re making vegan meatballs. Good on you! But what to do with the sauce? Here are some ideas to get you started.

Option 1: Marinara sauce is a classic choice for vegan meatballs. Try simmering them in a pot of marinara with some sliced mushrooms and onions for a hearty dish.
Option 2: For something a little different, try pairing your vegan meatballs with cranberry sauce. It’s an unexpected but delicious combo!
Option 3: Got a sweet tooth? Why not try making a sweet and sour sauce for your vegan meatballs? Add in some pineapple chunks and ginger for extra flavor. Yum!

More Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes

The air fryer is a great way to cook vegetables. They come out crispy and delicious. Here are some more recipes for you to try out.

• AIR FRYER FROZEN CARROTS: Love air fryer recipes? Me too! Today, I’m sharing one of my family’s favorites: air fryer frozen carrots. This recipe is simple, healthy, and delicious. You’re going to love it!
• AIR FRYER FRIED POTATO PEELS: If you’re like me, you probably don’t want to waste any part of the potato. But peeling can be a tedious task. That’s where the air fryer comes in! You can use it to fry up those pesky potato skins for a delicious, nutritious snack. So gather up your scraps and let’s get cooking!
• AIR FRYER PORTOBELLO MUSHROOM BURGERS: Looking for a healthier burger option? Check out these air fryer portobello mushroom burgers! They’re easy to make and taste delicious. Plus, they’re vegan and gluten-free. Give them a try today!

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