If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner or appetizer that’s packed with flavor, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are about to become a new favorite. Juicy seasoned meatballs are filled with melty mozzarella cheese, then cooked in the air fryer until perfectly golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. Every bite delivers a delicious cheesy surprise that makes this recipe irresistible.
Using the air fryer means you get crispy, evenly cooked meatballs without the mess of frying in oil or heating up the oven. They cook quickly and require minimal cleanup, making them ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or last-minute entertaining. Serve them as a protein-packed main dish, party appetizer, or even tucked into toasted rolls for amazing meatball subs.
These mozzarella stuffed meatballs pair wonderfully with warm marinara sauce, creamy Alfredo, or a side of roasted vegetables. You can also serve them over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or rice for a complete meal. Their versatility makes them a perfect recipe to keep in your regular dinner rotation.
Whether you’re feeding the family or making something special for guests, this easy air fryer meatball recipe is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients, bold Italian-inspired flavors, and gooey cheese centers, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are comfort food made fast and easy.
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Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
These juicy air fryer mozzarella stuffed meatballs are packed with savory flavor and a gooey melted cheese center. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect as an appetizer, pasta topper, or hearty main dish. Quick to cook and family-friendly, they’re a fun twist on classic meatballs.
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 3 meatballs per serving) 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork blend)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 cubes
Olive oil spray
Marinara sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Divide mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand.
Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of each portion and wrap meat around it, sealing completely. Roll into balls.
Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray basket with olive oil and arrange meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between each. Cook in batches if needed.
Air fry at 380°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking basket halfway through, until browned and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let rest 2 minutes before serving. Serve with warm marinara sauce or over pasta.
Notes
Cooking Tips
- Seal the cheese fully inside the meat to prevent leaking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches for even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Slightly chilled mozzarella cubes hold their shape better.
Variations
- Turkey Version: Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Spicy Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Cheddar Center: Swap mozzarella for cheddar cubes.
- Low Carb: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
- Pizza Style: Add diced pepperoni inside with the cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
