Air Fryer Holiday Meatballs

Air Fryer Holiday Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for festive gatherings. These juicy meatballs are seasoned to perfection and coated in a sweet and tangy holiday glaze.

Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick appetizer, these meatballs are easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Cooked to perfection in the air fryer in just minutes.
2. Holiday Flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze adds festive flair.
3. Juicy and Tender: Perfectly cooked meatballs that stay moist.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead and cook when ready.
5. Versatile: Great as an appetizer, main course, or party snack.

What to Serve with Holiday Meatballs

1. Mashed Potatoes: A comforting side that pairs well with the glaze.
2. Cranberry Sauce: Adds an extra burst of holiday flavor.
3. Green Beans: A light veggie side to balance the rich meatballs.
4. Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the glaze.
5. Cocktails: Serve with festive drinks like mulled wine or sparkling cider.

Yield: Serves 4-6

Air Fryer Holiday Meatballs

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Juicy, flavorful meatballs cooked in the air fryer and coated in a sweet and tangy holiday glaze, perfect for festive gatherings.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes

Total Time 22 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking.
3. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 2-3 minutes.
4. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
6. While the meatballs cook, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon.
7. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth and heated through.
8. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the glaze until evenly coated.
9. Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm with toothpicks.

Notes

1. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or on the stovetop.
2. Make Ahead: Shape the meatballs and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
4. Dipping Sauce: Serve extra glaze on the side for dipping.
5. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for some heat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping it up

Air Fryer Holiday Meatballs are a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s easy to make and perfect for any gathering. Juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy glaze will be the star of your holiday spread.

Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with family, this recipe is sure to delight you.

Give them a try and savor the taste of the holidays!