Crispy Air Fryer Greek Meatballs: A Mediterranean Delight!

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs are a perfect blend of bold flavors and a healthier twist on a classic dish. By using the air fryer, you get crispy, golden brown meatballs with a tender and juicy interior, all without the extra oil typically needed for frying.

These meatballs are packed with savory herbs, tangy feta cheese, and zesty spices, offering a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, part of a main course, or on a pita with your favorite toppings, these Greek meatballs will be a hit at any table.

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

There’s so much to love about Air Fryer Greek Meatballs! First and foremost, they’re incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of herbs like oregano and parsley, and the addition of feta cheese for a creamy, salty kick.

The air fryer ensures that each meatball is cooked evenly, with a crispy exterior that locks in all the savory juices, while keeping the dish light by reducing the amount of oil used.

These meatballs are also super versatile. Serve them with a side of tzatziki, on a salad, or stuffed into a pita with your favorite Mediterranean toppings.

They make a fantastic weeknight dinner, and they’re just as perfect for meal prep as they are for impressing guests at a party.

Plus, they come together in no time!

The air fryer reduces cooking time significantly, and the ingredients are simple to find and easy to work with. If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t require hours of preparation, this is your go-to recipe.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

To make these delicious Greek meatballs, you’ll need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that bring all the Mediterranean flavors to life:

  • Ground Beef or Lamb – The base of the meatballs. You can choose beef for a more familiar flavor or lamb for an authentic touch.
  • Feta Cheese – Crumbled feta adds a rich, salty creaminess that’s key to the Greek flavor profile.
  • Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs together while also keeping them light and fluffy.
  • Egg – Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together and give them structure.
  • Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings a sharp, aromatic punch.
  • Oregano – A classic herb in Greek cooking, adding depth of flavor.
  • Parsley – Fresh parsley enhances the freshness and brightness of the meatballs.
  • Red Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch to balance out the richness of the meat.
  • Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste, bringing out all the other flavors.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flair and sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Making Air Fryer Greek Meatballs is easier than you might think, especially with the air fryer cutting down on cooking time. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the crumbled feta cheese and finely chopped red onion to the mixture, making sure everything is evenly incorporated.
  • Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can result in tough meatballs.

2. Form the Meatballs

  • Once the mixture is ready, start shaping it into meatballs. For even cooking, aim for about 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball.
  • Roll them gently between your palms to ensure they are firm and uniform in shape.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help the meatballs cook evenly and get a crispy exterior.

4. Arrange the Meatballs in the Air Fryer

  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

5. Cook the Meatballs

  • Air fry the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  • Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer – it should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or lamb to be fully cooked.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

  • Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
  • Serve your Air Fryer Greek Meatballs with your favorite sides, like tzatziki, pita, or a fresh Greek salad.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Getting these meatballs just right is simple if you follow a few helpful tips:

1. Use Ground Lamb for Authentic Flavor

  • While ground beef works fine, ground lamb is more traditional in Greek meatballs and gives them that rich, distinct taste. It’s well worth the switch if you want an authentic Greek dish.

2. Don’t Overmix the Meat Mixture

  • Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients and make the meatballs stick together.

3. Don’t Skip the Feta

  • Feta is key to the flavor profile of these meatballs. If you’re worried about it being too salty, you can rinse it under water before crumbling, but the saltiness adds to the savory Mediterranean taste.

4. Air Fryer Cooking Times Vary

  • Every air fryer is slightly different, so check the meatballs a couple of minutes before the recommended cooking time to prevent overcooking. The meatballs should be golden brown and cooked through.

5. Rest the Meatballs After Cooking

  • Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices inside and ensures they stay juicy when you bite into them.

6. Customize the Seasoning

  • If you like your meatballs spicier, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika for extra heat. You can also experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like thyme or dill for a twist.

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Storing Leftovers

  • If you have leftover Air Fryer Greek Meatballs, let them cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Simply arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

  • To reheat your meatballs, the air fryer is still your best friend! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), and air fry the meatballs for about 5-6 minutes or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
  • You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be aware that they won’t be as crispy. Heat them on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
  • If reheating from frozen, you can air fry them directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (5)

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken for this recipe?

  • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or lamb. However, these leaner meats can be a bit dry, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a bit more feta to maintain moisture and flavor.

2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

  • Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture, shape them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs and cook them straight from the freezer when you’re ready.

3. Do I need to spray the air fryer basket?

  • Yes, lightly spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray helps prevent the meatballs from sticking. Just be careful not to overspray—too much oil can result in greasy meatballs.

4. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

  • The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or lamb. You’ll also notice they’ll be golden brown and firm to the touch when properly cooked.

5. Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

  • Yes, you can replace breadcrumbs with alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version. You can also use a bit of oats for a more wholesome substitute.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs are a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional fried meatballs. With a combination of lean meat, fresh herbs, tangy feta, and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe delivers crispy, juicy meatballs every time. Whether you serve them with a side of tzatziki, on a pita, or as part of a Mediterranean feast, they’re sure to impress.

Plus, with simple prep and cooking steps, you can enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and always satisfying. And don’t forget, they’re perfect for meal prep, freezing, or enjoying as leftovers!

Give these Air Fryer Greek Meatballs a try—they might just become your new favorite go-to recipe!

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

Linda M. Harris
These Air Fryer Greek Meatballs offer a delicious Mediterranean twist with savory ground meat, fresh herbs, tangy feta, and the crispy crunch that the air fryer delivers. These meatballs are perfect for any occasion—whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a flavorful appetizer, or a healthy meal prep option. They are lightened up with the air fryer, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional frying methods, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 60 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer (at least 3-4 quarts)
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Measuring Cup for breadcrumbs
  • 1 Meat Thermometer (optional but helpful)
  • 1 Spoon or Scoop for shaping meatballs
  • 1 Cooking Spray (for greasing the air fryer basket)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450g Ground Beef or Lamb
  • 1/2 cup 50g Breadcrumbs
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 1/4 cup 30g Crumbled Feta Cheese
  • 2 Cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/4 cup 4g Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup 40g Red Onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • Olive oil spray for greasing the air fryer basket

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef or lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, crushed feta, garlic, oregano, parsley, red onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
  • Arrange Meatballs in Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch to allow for even air circulation.
  • Air Fry the Meatballs: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer—meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Meat Choices: You can use either ground beef or lamb. Lamb is more traditional, but beef will give a slightly milder flavor.
  • Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Cooking Times: Air fryer cooking times may vary slightly depending on the brand and size of your air fryer. Always check the internal temperature to be sure the meatballs are fully cooked.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve these meatballs with a side of tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
  • Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze them before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
Keyword Air Fryer Greek Meatballs

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