Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs -

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming combination of meatballs and cheese. The Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take this classic dish to an exciting new level, offering a delightful surprise with each bite. Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked meatball, only to discover a gooey, melted center of mozzarella cheese. This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also brings a touch of creativity to your family meals. Plus, with the magic of the air fryer, you can enjoy this indulgence without the guilt that often accompanies fried foods.

Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with crispy air fryer mozzarella stuffed meatballs. This delightful twist on a classic features perfectly cooked meatballs with a gooey mozzarella center, offering a satisfying surprise in every bite. Easy to customize with ground beef or turkey and fresh herbs, these meatballs are air-fried for a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or crunch. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe will surely impress your loved ones!

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or for a lighter option, use ground turkey)

1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (or substitute with 2 tablespoons dried parsley)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

For the Stuffing:

8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

For the Coating:

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon salt

Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Stuff the Meatballs:

Take a generous handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Carefully fold the edges of the meat over the cheese and mold it into a round ball, ensuring that the cheese is completely encased within the meat. Place the stuffed meatball on a plate and repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Coat the Meatballs:

In a shallow dish, combine the additional breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and salt. Take each stuffed meatball and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. Set them aside on a plate or a wire rack.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.

Air Fry the Meatballs:

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Carefully place the meatballs into the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded (you may need to work in batches). For added crispiness, gently spray the tops of the meatballs with olive oil spray.

Cooking Time:

Air fry the meatballs at 380°F (193°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It's essential to check that they are cooked through and the mozzarella is melty.

Serve:

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them cool for about a minute. Serve them warm alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. For an appetizing touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the stuffed meatballs on a serving platter and drizzle with a bit of marinara sauce. Provide toothpicks for easy serving or offer them as sliders in small buns. Enjoy!