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Air fryer Greek meatballs (keftedes) on a white plate with tzatziki and lemon

Air Fryer Greek Meatballs (Keftedes): Crispy, Juicy & Ready in 20 Minutes

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: greek, Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 500 g 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or a mix)
  • 1 small red onion grated
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh mint chopped
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs panko works great
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing
For Serving (Optional):
  • Tzatziki dip
  • Lemon wedges
  • Pita bread
  • Cherry tomatoes and fresh rocket

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, garlic, parsley, mint, egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overwork the meat—this makes meatballs tough .
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
  1. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the mixture.
  2. Roll into 1.5-inch (4cm) balls.
  3. Tip: Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking .
Step 3: Air Fry
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes .
  2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
  3. Place meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook in batches if needed .
  4. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
  1. The meatballs are ready when they're golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground meat .
  2. Always use a meat thermometer—it's the only way to guarantee safety and prevent dry meatballs .
Step 5: Rest and Serve
  1. Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving .
  2. Serve with tzatziki, lemon wedges, and warm pita.

Video

Notes

  • Air Fryer Setup: Space the meatballs in a single layer without touching so hot air circulates evenly.
  • Doneness Check: Cook until golden brown on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer.
  • Key Ingredients: Ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, dill, garlic, oregano, cumin, and paprika.
  • Best Paired With: Creamy tzatziki, fresh mint, lemon wedges, and warm pita bread.
    Serve warm on a dish garnished with parsley, fresh mint, lemon wedges, pita bread, and a side of creamy tzatziki