Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy meatball! My air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs recipe is a total game-changer when it comes to quick dinners that pack a flavor punch. Seriously, who doesn’t love the idea of perfectly cooked meatballs with gooey mozzarella oozing from the center? The air fryer makes everything so easy, and it cuts down on cooking time while still giving you that crispy outer layer we all crave. Plus, they’re so versatile! You can serve them as a main dish with pasta, as an appetizer, or even pop them into a sub for a killer meatball sandwich. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them again and again!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these mouthwatering meatballs. I promise, these ingredients come together beautifully and are super easy to find!
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the star of the show! Go for a good quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: I like to use plain breadcrumbs, but you can also use seasoned ones for an extra flavor kick!
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a delightful nuttiness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 1 egg: This acts as a binder, helping everything stick together nicely.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: A must for that savory punch! Feel free to use fresh garlic if you prefer.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This is where the magic happens! It brings all those classic herb flavors together.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed: Make sure to cut this into small cubes so it melts perfectly inside the meatballs.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season well! It really elevates the overall flavor.
Make sure to gather everything before you start; it makes the whole process so much smoother. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
How to Prepare Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! These steps are laid out to make things super simple for you. Just follow along, and you’ll be on your way to cheesy meatball heaven in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a large mixing bowl. Toss in the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Now, mix it all together until everything is nicely combined. I usually use my hands for this because it’s just easier, but a spoon works too!
- Once it’s all mixed up, start forming the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. This recipe should give you around 16 meatballs, but feel free to make them bigger or smaller depending on your preference!
- Here comes the fun part! Take a cube of mozzarella cheese and press it into the center of each meatball. Then, shape the meatball around the cheese, making sure to completely seal the cheese inside. You don’t want any escapes during cooking—that gooey center is part of the magic!
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial, so don’t skip it! A hot air fryer means crispy meatballs!
- Once preheated, place your meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; you want them to cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown color.
- Cook the meatballs for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can give them a little shake halfway through to ensure they’re getting that even crispiness all around.
- When they’re done, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Serve them hot, and enjoy that delicious cheesy goodness!
And there you have it! You’re all set to impress your family or friends with these delightful meatballs. This recipe is so fun and satisfying, you’ll want to make it time and time again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for my air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs! These little bites are not only delicious but also pack a pretty decent nutritional punch. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so your exact numbers might vary a bit based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 25g
With a good balance of protein and flavor, these meatballs make for a satisfying meal. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something scrumptious while keeping it somewhat healthy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have these tasty meatballs ready to go in no time!
- Easy Air Fryer Cooking: The air fryer does all the work, making it a breeze to achieve that perfect crispy exterior without the hassle of frying.
- Delicious Cheese Center: Each meatball is filled with gooey mozzarella, making every bite a delightful surprise!
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy meatballs, making them a hit for family dinners or game day snacks.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, with pasta, or stuffed in a sub—there’s no wrong way to savor these meatballs!
Tips for Success with Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Now that you’re ready to dive into making these incredible meatballs, let me share some of my top tips to ensure your air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs turn out perfectly every time!
- Consistency is Key: When mixing your ingredients, aim for a well-blended mixture that’s not too wet or dry. If it feels too sticky, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs can help balance it out, but don’t overdo it!
- Seal the Cheese: Make sure you completely encase the mozzarella cubes in the meat mixture. If you leave any gaps, the cheese might ooze out during cooking, and we definitely want all that melty goodness inside!
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your meatballs as they cook! Depending on their size and your air fryer model, cooking times can vary. It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature; they should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe eating.
- Batch Cooking: If you’re making a big batch, consider cooking the meatballs in two batches. This way, you’ll ensure they cook evenly and get that lovely crispy outside without overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste! If you love a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes, or if you’re a fan of herbs, fresh parsley or basil can add a nice touch!
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them nice and moist!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the meatball master in no time! Enjoy the process and the delicious results—your taste buds will thank you!
Variations on the Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
One of the best things about my air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs recipe is how easily it can be customized! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, here are some fun variations to try:
- Cheese Choices: Why stick to just mozzarella? Try using cheddar for a sharp flavor, pepper jack for some heat, or even feta for a Mediterranean twist!
- Herb and Spice Mixes: Experiment with different herbs and spices! Adding fresh basil or oregano can really brighten up the flavor, or toss in some smoked paprika for a touch of smokiness.
- Mix Up the Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could even use a blend of meats, like beef and pork, for added richness.
- Stuffing Surprises: Try stuffing the meatballs with other goodies like diced jalapeños for heat, or even a spoonful of pesto for a burst of flavor!
- Gluten-Free Options: For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead. It works beautifully while keeping the texture intact.
- Vegetarian Variation: For a meatless option, use a combination of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables mixed with breadcrumbs and cheese. They’re hearty and delicious!
Feel free to get creative! The beauty of these meatballs is that they can adapt to your mood and pantry. Try out these variations, or mix and match until you find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Now that you’ve got those golden, cheesy meatballs ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve them up for an unforgettable meal! These meatballs are super versatile, so you can pair them with a variety of sides and sauces to really elevate your dining experience.
- Pasta Delight: Serve these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti with your favorite marinara sauce. The sauce soaks into the meatballs, making each bite absolutely divine!
- Fresh Salad: For a lighter option, toss them on top of a crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a delicious way to balance the richness of the meatballs.
- Sub Sandwiches: Craving something hearty? Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, drizzle with marinara, and sprinkle some extra mozzarella on top for a cheesy meatball sub that’s totally drool-worthy!
- Dip It: Pair these meatballs with a side of creamy ranch or zesty marinara sauce for dipping. It’s perfect for parties or game days when everyone can just grab and go!
- Veggie Medley: Roast some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus alongside the meatballs in the air fryer for a colorful and nutritious side that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve your meatballs over cheesy cauliflower rice. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all that cheesy goodness without the carbs!
Whatever you choose, these air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs will undoubtedly steal the show. Enjoy mixing and matching until you find your perfect flavor combo—trust me, every meal will feel like a special occasion!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No worries! These air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs store really well, and I’m here to tell you the best ways to keep them tasty for later. Proper storage and reheating can make all the difference in preserving that delicious flavor and gooey cheese!
- Storing Leftovers: Once the meatballs have cooled down, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re sealed tight to prevent drying out!
- Freezing Options: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked meatballs! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. This method helps prevent them from sticking together!
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps them regain that crispy exterior we all love. You can also microwave them for a quick option, but be aware they might not be as crispy.
- Check for Temperature: When reheating, ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to be safe for eating. A quick kitchen thermometer can be super handy for this!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your cheesy meatballs more than once without losing any of that mouthwatering goodness. Happy munching!
Print
Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe: 5 Reasons to Try
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and easy recipe for air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball.
- Shape the meatball around the cheese to seal it.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed in the meatball.
- Cooking time may vary based on meatball size.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: air fryer cheese stuffed meatballs recipe
