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Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs

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Cook Time 14 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 19 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Frozen meatballs: Any brand. Beef, pork, turkey, chicken, or plant-based all work.
  • Oil spray (optional): Avocado or olive oil for extra browning.
  • Sauce (optional): Marinara, BBQ, buffalo, teriyaki, sweet chili, or honey-garlic.
  • Seasonings (optional): Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes.
  • Garnishes (optional): Fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, green onions, sesame seeds.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Give it 3–5 minutes so the basket is hot. Preheating helps with browning.
  • Prep the basket. Lightly spray the basket with oil or use a perforated liner to prevent sticking. Don’t over-spray.
  • Add the meatballs in a single layer. Keep a little space between them. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
  • Air fry for 10–12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through. Smaller meatballs may finish in 8–10 minutes; jumbo ones may take 12–14.
  • Check doneness. They should be hot throughout and lightly browned. If using a thermometer, aim for 165°F (74°C) in the center for poultry or mixed-meat varieties.
  • Toss with sauce (optional). Warm your sauce separately, then toss cooked meatballs to coat. For a sticky glaze, air fry sauced meatballs 1–2 more minutes to set.
  • Serve right away. Top with parsley or Parmesan, or slide into rolls with melted provolone for meatball subs.