Air Fryer Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
Juicy Italian-seasoned beef meatballs with a molten mozzarella center, cooked golden and crisp in the air fryer. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping or toss with pasta.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 4 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into 3/4-in cubes
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- as needed olive oil cooking spray
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade), warmed
Instructions
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1
In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20), 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs, 2 beaten large eggs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Mix just until combined — do not overwork.
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2
Divide the meat mixture into equal portions (about 1.5 oz each). Flatten each portion in your palm, place one cube of 4 oz cut into 3/4-in cubes low-moisture mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a tight ball, sealing completely.
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3
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly coat the basket with olive oil cooking spray.
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4
Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each. Cook in batches if necessary.
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5
Air fry at 380°F for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through, until the meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and browned on the outside.
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6
Rest for 2 minutes, then serve with 2 cups warmed marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) for dipping.