Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Air Fryer Meatballs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

   • Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of meat used.

2. What if I don't have a food processor?

   • You can finely chop the vegetables and herbs by hand or use a blender to make the sofrito mixture.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

   • Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage.

4. How do I store leftover meatballs?

   • Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. How do I reheat the meatballs?

   • Reheat the meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave or oven.

6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

   • Yes, you can use dried parsley if fresh is not available. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley as a substitute.

7. Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

   • Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and better results. It is recommended to preheat for 3 minutes before adding the meatballs.

8. Can I add other seasonings or spices?

   • Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. You can add spices like paprika, chili flakes, or your favorite seasoning blend.

9. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs?

   • Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs. If you want the Italian flavor, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning to the mixture.

10. What size should the meatballs be?

    • Using an ice cream scoop helps to create uniform meatballs, typically around 1.5 inches in diameter.

11. Can I cook the meatballs in the oven instead?

    • Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.

12. What dipping sauces go well with these meatballs?

    • These meatballs pair well with marinara sauce, tzatziki, barbecue sauce, or even a simple garlic aioli.

13. How many servings does this recipe make?

    • This recipe makes approximately 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size. It serves about 4-6 people.

14. Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?

    • Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

15. What sides go well with air fryer meatballs?

    • These meatballs are versatile and pair well with pasta, rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.