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Air fryer recipes have gained immense popularity in recent years, thanks to their ability to produce delicious meals with less oil and fewer calories than traditional frying methods. Among the many delightful dishes you can prepare in an air fryer, Sweet & Smoky BBQ Meatballs stand out as a versatile option that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or preparing a snack for game day, these meatballs deliver an irresistible flavor profile that will please everyone at the table. Additionally, using an air fryer not only enhances the taste but also retains the nutritional value of the ingredients, making this recipe a healthier alternative.

Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs with Sweet Glaze

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Sweet & Smoky Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs! This easy recipe features juicy meatballs made with ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, and a delicious blend of spices. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner, they're cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a healthier twist. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, these meatballs will delight everyone. Try them with your favorite BBQ sauce for an irresistible taste sensation!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter alternative)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (substitute with panko for added crunch)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 egg, beaten

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand)

2 tbsp honey

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly blended to create a cohesive mixture.

    Form the Meatballs: With your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs approximately 1 inch in diameter. This recipe should yield around 20 meatballs.

      Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the optimal cooking temperature.

        Air Fry the Meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other to allow for even cooking. Depending on your air fryer's capacity, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and thoroughly cooked.

          Prepare the Sweet Glaze: While the meatballs are cooking, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl until well combined to create a sweet glaze.

            Glaze the Meatballs: Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a large bowl and pour the sweet glaze over them. Gently toss to evenly coat each meatball with the glaze.

              Optional Caramelization Step: For a slightly caramelized finish, you can return the glazed meatballs to the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the glaze.

                Serve: Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Whether served on skewers as a delightful appetizer, alongside a crisp salad for a main course, or at your next gathering, these sweet and smoky meatballs are sure to please!

                  Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Servings: 4