Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs (Printer-Friendly)
Tender beef meatballs tossed in zesty, spicy-sweet sauce for a flavorful appetizer or main course.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meatballs
01 -
1 pound lean ground beef
02 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 -
2 large eggs
04 -
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
05 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
06 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
07 -
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
09 -
1 clove garlic, minced
10 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 -
2 teaspoons sesame seeds, plus extra for garnish
12 -
Olive oil non-stick spray
→ Firecracker Sauce
13 -
1/3 cup buffalo sauce
14 -
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
15 -
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
16 -
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
17 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
18 -
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, parmesan, parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and sesame seeds.
03 -
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 2-inch diameter meatballs.
04 -
Lightly coat air fryer basket with olive oil non-stick spray. Arrange half of the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Spray meatballs with non-stick spray.
05 -
Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Carefully flip meatballs, then continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until internal temperature measures 140–155°F.
06 -
Remove finished meatballs and repeat air frying steps with remaining mixture.
07 -
Set a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Combine buffalo sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
08 -
Transfer cooked meatballs to a large bowl. Pour firecracker sauce over the meatballs and toss to evenly coat.
09 -
Sprinkle with additional sesame seeds and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For spicier meatballs, increase the buffalo sauce or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the firecracker sauce.
02 -
Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatball portions, promoting even cooking.
03 -
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure consistent browning and proper airflow.
04 -
Meatballs can be frozen before or after cooking for convenient meal prep.
05 -
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.