Frozen Meatballs in Air Fryer

These Frozen Meatballs (in Air Fryer) are a simple appetizer, lunch, or dinner solution. Serve them tossed in barbecue sauce over mashed potatoes or in marinara sauce over pasta. Either way they are delicious and most importantly easy!

Sometimes you just need a quick meal or snack! Frozen meatballs are a great freezer staple for these moments. 

I love to toss these frozen meatballs (in air fryer) with lots of my favorite homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce.  
If you love easy air fryer recipes, try these Air Fryer Frozen Burgers, Air Fryer Frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi, or Air Fryer Bagel Bites.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe & What You’ll Learn
• Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
• Helpful Equipment & Tools
• How to Make Frozen Meatballs in Air Fryer
• Make Ahead & Storage
• Expert Tips
• Recipe Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Related Recipes
• Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe & What You’ll Learn

• Frozen meatballs (in air fryer) are quick and easy. 
• Frozen foods are great to keep on hand because of their long shelf life. 
• Air fryer frozen meatballs brown nicely on the outside while staying moist in the center. 
• Frozen meatballs are super versalite. They can be served as a meal or an appetizer and tossed in a variety of sauces. 
• This recipe is kid friendly. 
• Turkey meatballs are lower in fat compared to beef or pork. Some meatballs are low carb/keto, but always check the nutrition label.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Frozen Meatballs: I used the frozen turkey meatballs from Trader Joes. Any medium sized frozen meatballs will work. Do not thaw. You can cook as many meatballs that can fit in a single layer in your air fryer basket. 

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

Helpful Equipment & Tools

• COSORI Air Fryer Oven Combo 5.8QT Max Xl
• 2 Pack Black Kitchen Tongs, Premium Silicone

How to Make Frozen Meatballs in Air Fryer

Quick Overview

• Place the frozen meatballs in a single layer.
• Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Place the meatballs in the air fryer in a single layer. Spray with oil if desired.

Step 2: Air fry at 380 degrees for 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Shake the basket to rotate the meatballs and spray again with oil.

Step 4: Air fry at 380 degrees for another 5-6 minutes, or until completely heated through.

Make Ahead & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover air fried frozen meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. 
  • Reheating: Reheat leftover meatballs in the microwave or in the air fryer at 380 degrees for 5-6 minutes or until heated through completely. 
• Do not refreeze cooked air fryer meatballs.

Expert Tips

• Do not thaw the meatballs. There is no need to defrost the meatballs. They cook perfectly directly from frozen.
• Do not overcrowd the basket. Place the meatballs in a single layer so they heat and brown evenly. 
• Use oil. While oil is usually optional for my air fryer recipes, I highly recommend it. It prevents food from sticking or drying out.  
• Toss in your favorite sauce. Try barbecue, sweet chili, or marinara sauce.

Recipe Notes

• This recipe was tested in my COSORI Air Fryer. Every air fryer cooks differently and that is why the cook time is a range. Be sure to check on the meatballs as they air fry and adjust the time as needed to ensure the frozen meatballs are heated through.

Variations

• Meat: Pre-cooked turkey, chicken, beef, or pork meatballs can all be used. You can even try plant based or vegan “meatballs”. Just be sure the meatballs are not raw and are frozen. 

FAQs

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