Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs (Printer-Friendly Version)
Juicy beef meatballs air-fried and tossed in a hot, zesty firecracker sauce for a bold appetizer or meal.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Meatballs
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Olive oil non-stick spray, for greasing
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1 pound lean ground beef
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2 large eggs
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0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
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0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
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0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
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0.5 teaspoon black pepper
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0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
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0.5 teaspoon onion powder
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon sesame seeds
→ Firecracker Sauce
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0.33 cup buffalo hot sauce
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0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
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0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
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0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure an even cooking temperature.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, minced garlic, and sesame seeds. Mix thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
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Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll between your palms to create 2-inch meatballs.
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Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick olive oil spray. Arrange meatballs in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs.
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Cook meatballs at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F to 155°F.
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Repeat forming and air frying with any remaining mixture, ensuring meatballs are always arranged in a single layer.
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In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together buffalo hot sauce, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, whisking frequently, until sauce begins to thicken.
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Transfer cooked meatballs to a large bowl, pour firecracker sauce over, and gently toss to coat each meatball evenly.
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Serve meatballs warm as an appetizer or entrée. Garnish with fresh parsley, additional sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
For uniform sizing, use a cookie scoop when shaping meatballs. Adjust heat by varying the amount of firecracker sauce or by adding red pepper flakes. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for optimal browning.
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These meatballs can be assembled and frozen raw. For best results, freeze on parchment until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
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Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through.