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Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

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These crispy air fryer mozzarella stuffed meatballs feature a golden crunchy exterior with a gooey melted mozzarella center, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup (25 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ½ cup (60 g) Italian breadcrumbs
  • 8 small fresh mozzarella bocconcini balls or 4 larger balls cut into quarters
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. If using larger fresh mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized cubes, about ¾ inch (2 cm). Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Parmesan, Italian breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined.
  3. Scoop about 2 tablespoons (30 g) of meat mixture, flatten it, place a mozzarella cube in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a smooth ball. Repeat to make about 16 meatballs.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each.
  6. Lightly spray the meatballs with olive oil spray.
  7. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C). If cheese oozes out, gently press it back in before flipping.
  8. Warm marinara sauce on stovetop or microwave while meatballs cook.
  9. Serve meatballs with warm marinara sauce on the side or spooned over.

Notes

Do not overpack the meatballs to keep them tender and prevent cheese leakage. Use fresh mozzarella balls rather than shredded cheese. Preheat the air fryer for best crispiness. Flip meatballs halfway through cooking. Let meatballs rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices. For extra crunch, roll meatballs in additional breadcrumbs before cooking. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer meatballs, mozzarella stuffed meatballs, crispy meatballs, easy dinner, quick recipe, Italian meatballs, finger food, appetizer

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/crispy-air-fryer-mozzarella-stuffed-meatballs-recipe-easy-and-perfect/