How To Cook Frozen Meatballs In The Air Fryer Recipe

Discover the ultimate guide on how to cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer for quick and crispy results. Elevate your mealtime with this convenient method, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave delicious meatballs without the hassle.

Frozen meatballs are a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.  From classic spaghetti and meatballs to hearty meatball subs. 

But did you know that you can achieve perfectly cooked meatballs with a crispy exterior and juicy interior using just your air fryer? 

Let’s explore the step-by-step process of cooking frozen meatballs in the air fryer, ensuring a quick and delicious meal every time.

If you love these air-fried meatballs you may also want to try my Air Fryer Tempura Shrimp or my Frozen Potstickers In The Air Fryer.

WHY CHOOSE THE AIR FRYER?

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook by using hot air circulation to crisp up food without the need for excess oil.

When it comes to frozen meatballs, the air fryer not only cooks them faster than traditional methods but also ensures an even and crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.

Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s the perfect kitchen appliance for busy weeknights or quick meals on the go.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE FOR HOW TO COOK FROZEN MEATBALLS IN THE AIR FRYER

1. Quick and Convenient: With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked frozen meatballs ready to enjoy in a matter of minutes. The air fryer speeds up the cooking process, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meal solutions.
2. Crispy and Flavorful: The air fryer’s hot air circulation ensures that the meatballs develop a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy and flavorful interior. Say goodbye to soggy and unevenly cooked meatballs – with this recipe, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results every time, making it a favorite among home cooks and meatball enthusiasts alike.
3. Healthier Option: Cooking frozen meatballs in the air fryer requires minimal to no added oil, resulting in a lighter and healthier alternative compared to traditional frying methods. You can enjoy the same crispy texture without the excess grease, making it perfect for those watching their calorie intake or looking for nutritious meal options.
4. Versatile: This recipe opens up a world of possibilities for incorporating frozen meatballs into various dishes. Whether you serve them as appetizers with dipping sauce, toss them in pasta, or use them to make meatball subs, the options are endless. With the air fryer, you can easily customize the flavor profile of your meatballs by experimenting with different seasonings and sauces.
5. Family-Friendly: Frozen meatballs cooked in the air fryer are a hit with both kids and adults alike. They’re convenient for busy parents looking to whip up a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, since they cook up so quickly, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food with your loved ones.

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE AIR FRYER FROZEN MEATBALLS

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make the quick meal (the exact measurements, step-by-step instructions, nutritional information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

• Frozen meatballs
• Cooking spray (optional)
• Your favorite sauce – such as marinara sauce, barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, etc.

HOW TO MAKE

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Place the frozen meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching or overcrowded.
3. If desired, lightly spray the meatballs with cooking spray to help them crisp up even more.
4. Cook the meatballs in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Once the meatballs are golden brown and crispy on the outside, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.
6. Serve the meatballs with your favorite sauce for dipping or toss them in sauce to coat evenly before serving.
7. Enjoy your perfectly cooked and deliciously crispy frozen meatballs straight from the air fryer!

STORING THE LEFTOVER MEATBALLS RECIPE

To store leftover air fryer meatballs, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for longer-term storage. 

When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the air fryer until warmed through, ensuring a quick and convenient meal whenever you need it.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THE EASY AIR FRYER RECIPE

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
• If cooking different sizes of meatballs, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller meatballs may cook faster than larger ones.
• Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or sauces to customize the flavor of your meatballs to your liking.
• Serve the meatballs as an appetizer, on top of pasta, in sandwiches, or as a protein-packed snack.

FAQS

CAN I USE BBQ SAUCE TO FLAVOR THE FROZEN MEATBALLS BEFORE AIR FRYING?

Absolutely! BBQ sauce adds a delicious flavor to the meatballs. Simply toss the frozen meatballs in BBQ sauce before placing them in the air fryer basket for a tasty twist on classic meatballs.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO COOK HOMEMADE MEAT BALLS IN THE AIR FRYER?

To cook homemade meatballs in the air fryer, follow the same steps as you would with frozen meatballs. 

Ensure they are properly seasoned and shaped, then cook them in the air fryer according to the recommended cook time until they are cooked through and golden brown.

HOW DO I KNOW WHEN THE FROZEN RAW MEATBALLS ARE DONE COOKING IN THE AIR FRYER?

Use an instant read thermometer or meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs. They should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Additionally, they should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

CAN I SERVE THIS AIR FRYER MEATBALLS RECIPE AS AN APPETIZER?

Absolutely! Air fryer meatballs make a great appetizer for parties or gatherings. 

Serve them with toothpicks and a dipping sauce of your choice for a crowd-pleasing snack that everyone will love.

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER COOKING METHODS FOR THIS MEATBALL RECIPE?

1. Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the Swedish meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
2. Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and evenly browned.
3. Slow Cooker: Place the meatballs in a slow cooker and cover them with your favorite sauce (such as BBQ sauce or marinara sauce). Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
4. Instant Pot: Place the meatballs in the Instant Pot and cover them with sauce. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then allow for a natural release. Once cooked, carefully remove the tender meatballs and serve.

Other Air Fryer Recipes You May Enjoy Trying!

• Air Fryer Tortilla Garlic Bread
• Easy Air Fryer Parmesan Truffle Fries
• Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast
• Air Fryer Bacon
• Tortilla Pizza In The Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Steak French Fries
• Easy Air Fryer Hamburgers (Quick And Juicy)
• Air Fryer Frozen Pickles

IF YOU TRIED THESE GROUND BEEF MEATBALLS RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS EASY SNACK ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails