Go Back
Air fryer keto meatballs with juicy browned meatballs, fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, olive oil, and a lemon wedge, served as a high protein low carb dinner.
Print Recipe

Air Fryer Keto Meatballs - Juicy, Fast, and Full of Flavor

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for juiciness) or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup almond flour or 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds (zero-carb binder)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, but brightens the flavor)
  • 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk (optional for extra tenderness)
  • Olive oil spray for the air fryer basket
  • Low-sugar marinara sauce, pesto, or aioli for serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps brown the meatballs.
  • Make the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, Parmesan, almond flour (or pork rinds), egg, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, parsley, and cream if using. Mix gently with your hands or a fork. Don’t overwork it.
  • Form the meatballs: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons per meatball (roughly golf-ball size). Roll lightly with damp hands. You should get 16–18 meatballs.
  • Prep the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange meatballs in a single layer with a little space between them. Work in batches if needed.
  • Air fry: Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the meatballs halfway. They’re done when browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for poultry or 160°F for beef/pork.
  • Rest and serve: Let them rest 2–3 minutes to lock in juices. Serve with warm low-sugar marinara, pesto, or toothpicks for snacking.