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