Mini BBQ Meatballs are tender, flavorful bites coated in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or snacks, these air-fried meatballs are juicy on the inside and glazed to perfection. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- Olive oil spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Shape the Meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Coat with BBQ Sauce:
- Remove the meatballs and toss them in barbecue sauce until well-coated. Return them to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with toothpicks and extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings:
- Makes approximately 20 meatballs, serving 4 people (5 meatballs per person).
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: ~400mg
Key Notes:
- Meat Variations: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
- Sauce Options: Experiment with honey mustard, sweet chili, or teriyaki sauce for different flavors.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and freeze uncooked. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
- Pairings: Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing or pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy these Mini BBQ Meatballs as a flavorful and versatile appetizer everyone will love! 😊