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Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe with Easy Marinara Dip

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These crispy air fryer mozzarella stuffed meatballs feature a golden crust with molten cheese centers, paired perfectly with a quick homemade marinara dip. A simple, quick, and addictive comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (reserve some for stuffing)
  • ½ cup (50 g) plain breadcrumbs (panko works great for lighter texture)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • For the Marinara Dip:
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinara: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds without browning. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside and keep warm.
  2. Make the Meatball Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, parsley or Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Stuff the Meatballs: Divide mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion, place about 1 teaspoon shredded mozzarella in the center, then fold meat around cheese and roll into a tight ball, sealing completely.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Cook the Meatballs: Place meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket without touching. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip each meatball, then cook another 8-10 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Serve: Plate meatballs and spoon warm marinara alongside for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix meat to avoid tough meatballs. Seal cheese well inside to prevent leaking. Preheat air fryer for best crispiness. Flip meatballs halfway through cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes to maintain crispiness. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. Dairy-free mozzarella alternatives can be used but melting may vary.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer meatballs, mozzarella stuffed meatballs, crispy meatballs, homemade marinara, easy appetizer, comfort food, cheesy meatballs

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/crispy-air-fryer-mozzarella-stuffed-meatballs-recipe-with-easy-marinara-dip/