20 Kid-Friendly Air Fryer Meatballs That Will Make Dinner a Fun Adventure!
June 1, 2025 | by Roz L
Dinner should never be boring, especially when you have kids in the house! Air fryer meatballs are not only delicious but also super easy to make, making them the perfect option for a family meal. These bite-sized beauties can be packed with flavors and are incredibly versatile. From classic Italian to sweet and tangy Asian flavors, there’s a meatball recipe here for every tiny foodie in your family. Plus, the air fryer makes them unbelievably crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside without all the added oil. Get ready for a fun culinary adventure that will turn dinnertime into a tasty adventure for your little ones!
Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, these meatballs will be a hit. You can even get your kids involved in the kitchen by letting them roll the meatballs, creating a bonding experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious!
1. Classic Italian Meatballs
Start off with the timeless classic – Italian meatballs! Made with ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, and a blend of Italian herbs like oregano and basil, these meatballs can be served with pasta or on their own with a drizzle of marinara sauce.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions: 1. In a bowl, mix all the ingredients until just combined.
2. Roll into bite-sized balls.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
These meatballs are sure to make your kids cheer! Pair them with spaghetti for a full meal or serve with toothpicks for a fun appetizer at parties.
For extra flavor, add some chopped parsley or a splash of milk to keep them moist!
Fun Idea: Let the kids decorate their meatballs with their choice of toppings!
2. Cheesy Spinach Meatballs
If you’re looking to sneak in some veggies, cheesy spinach meatballs are a fantastic choice! These delightful bites combine ground meat with chopped spinach and gooey cheese, giving your kids a healthy dose of greens while keeping them tasty.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or chicken, 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped), 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, salt and pepper.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl until mixed well.
2. Form into meatballs.
3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
The gooey cheese oozing from the meatballs will make dinner time a fun event. Serve them with a side of marinara or a simple dipping sauce for extra fun!
Swap spinach for kale or any other greens your family enjoys. The cheese is the star here, so don’t be afraid to mix in different types of cheese!
Fun Idea: Let the kids create their own meatball sandwich with their favorite toppings!
3. Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs
Transport your taste buds to Asia with teriyaki chicken meatballs! These sweet and savory bites are perfect for kids who love a bit of flair in their meals.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken, 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, green onions (for garnish).
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl, forming small balls.
2. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Cook for 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
Serve these meatballs with a side of rice and steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Adjust the sauce to suit your family’s taste – if they like it sweeter, add a bit of honey or brown sugar!
Fun Idea: Pair the meatballs with colorful skewers for a fun party dish!
4. BBQ Meatballs
For a tangy and smoky flavor, BBQ meatballs hit the spot! These meatballs are a crowd-pleaser and can be served alone or as sliders.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 1 egg, 1 onion (finely chopped).
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients together. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, brushing with extra BBQ sauce halfway through.
Serve these delightful meatballs with mini buns and extra BBQ sauce for dipping!
Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a unique flavor. You could even add some crushed pineapple for a sweet twist!
Fun Idea: Set up a BBQ meatball slider bar with various toppings.
5. Sweet and Sour Meatballs
These sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful mix of flavors that kids will love! Combining sweetness with a hint of tang, they are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground pork, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Mix ingredients until well combined. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 12 minutes.
Serve these meatballs with rice and some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Adding small pineapple chunks to the mixture will elevate the flavor!
Fun Idea: Let kids build their own meatball bowls with rice and veggies!
6. Taco Meatballs
Taco Tuesday just got a whole lot more exciting with taco meatballs! These flavorful bites are a fun twist on a classic meal.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey, 1/2 cup taco seasoning, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Serve taco meatballs with mini tortillas, toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a fun dinner experience.
Experiment with different types of cheese or beans added to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Fun Idea: Let kids create their own mini taco platters with all their favorite toppings!
7. Greek Meatballs
Introduce your family to the flavors of Greece with these tasty Greek meatballs! Packed with herbs and spices, they are incredibly flavorful.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb or beef, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup feta cheese, 1 egg, 1 tbsp oregano, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: 1. Mix everything in a bowl. 2. Form small balls. 3. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Serve these meatballs with tzatziki sauce and pita bread for a fun Mediterranean feast.
Add some fresh mint or dill to the mix for an extra burst of flavor!
Fun Idea: Set up a Greek-inspired meal with a build-your-own pita station!
8. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Spice things up with buffalo chicken meatballs! These fiery bites are sure to please the older kids in the family.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken, 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes.
Serve these with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a perfect dip!
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spice level.
Fun Idea: Create a ‘buffalo bar’ where kids can add their desired toppings!
9. Mediterranean Quinoa Meatballs
Looking for a healthier option? These Mediterranean quinoa meatballs are packed with nutrients and flavor!
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1 lb ground turkey, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup feta cheese, 1 egg, Italian herbs.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients together. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
These meatballs are a great source of protein and can be served with a yogurt sauce.
You can add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor!
Fun Idea: Kids can create their own meatball wraps with fresh veggies and sauces!
10. Breakfast Meatballs
Why not bring breakfast to dinner with these delicious breakfast meatballs? Packed with all the morning flavors, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients: 1 lb ground sausage, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup shredded cheese, 1 egg, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Serve them with scrambled eggs or as a breakfast sandwich – they’re that versatile!
Add some chopped bacon or bell peppers for an extra kick!
Fun Idea: Let kids build their own breakfast sandwich with all the toppings!
11. Curry Meatballs
Add some international flair with these curry meatballs! Sweet, spicy, and packed with flavor, they’ll make dinner feel like an adventure.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or chicken, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup curry paste, 1 egg, chopped cilantro.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients together. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Serve these meatballs over rice, along with a side of yogurt to cool down the spice.
Experiment with different types of curry paste for varied flavors.
Fun Idea: Kids can create their own curry bowls with their favorite toppings!
12. Moroccan Meatballs
Spice things up with Moroccan meatballs! These exotic bites are infused with warm spices and dried fruits, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb or beef, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 cup raisins, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Serve alongside couscous and a yogurt sauce for a complete Moroccan experience.
Add chopped fresh mint for a refreshing twist!
Fun Idea: Kids can create their own Moroccan-inspired bowls with couscous and assorted toppings!
13. Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs
Take a trip to Thailand with these peanut butter chicken meatballs! Creamy and delicious, they are sure to be a favorite.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken, 1/4 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, sesame seeds, chopped green onions for garnish.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes.
Serve these with rice and a drizzle of extra peanut sauce, if you dare!
You can adjust the peanut butter to suit your family’s preference.
Fun Idea: Let kids create their own peanut sauce dipping station with different toppings!
14. Veggie Meatballs
For the veggie lovers in your family, these veggie meatballs are a perfect choice! Packed with nutritious vegetables and beans, they are deliciously healthy.
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils, 1 cup grated carrot, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into small balls. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Serve with a tangy dipping sauce or on a salad for a nutritious meal!
You can add any leftover veggies you have in the fridge for extra flavor!
Fun Idea: Let kids build their own veggie bowls with fresh toppings!
15. Pumpkin Spice Meatballs
Get into the fall spirit with these pumpkin spice meatballs! They’re a fun twist that kids will love, especially during the holiday season!
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, pumpkin spice mix.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Serve with a sweet dipping sauce or alongside autumn-inspired sides!
Adjust the pumpkin spice to your family’s taste for that perfect fall flavor.
Fun Idea: Let kids create a pumpkin-themed meal with decorative toppings!
16. Baked Ziti Meatballs
Combine two classics with baked ziti meatballs! These hearty bites are packed with pasta flavors that kids adore.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup cooked ziti pasta (chopped), 1/2 cup marinara sauce, 1/4 cup cheese, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients together. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 12 minutes.
Serve them with more marinara sauce and melted cheese on top for an irresistible dish!
Use different types of pasta for a twist!
Fun Idea: Set up a pasta bar for the kids to create their own combinations!
17. Sloppy Joe Meatballs
Bring a classic favorite to the table with sloppy joe meatballs! These messy but delicious bites are a fun way to enjoy a favorite dish.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup sloppy joe sauce, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Serve with mini buns and extra sloppy joe sauce for a fun twist on a classic meal!
Adjust the sauce amount to suit your family’s taste.
Fun Idea: Let kids customize their own sloppy joe sliders with toppings!
18. Honey Garlic Meatballs
Sweet and sticky, honey garlic meatballs are a delightful treat! Kids will love the savory-sweet combo that makes these meatballs simply irresistible.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 12 minutes.
Serve these with rice or noodles for a deliciously sweet meal!
You can add sesame seeds for an extra crunch!
Fun Idea: Kids can create their own honey garlic noodle bowls!
19. Cilantro Lime Meatballs
For a fresh and zesty flavor, try cilantro lime meatballs! These vibrant bites are perfect for taco night or on their own as a tasty snack!
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey or chicken, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients. 2. Form into meatballs. 3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Serve these with a fresh salsa or on a taco for a lively dinner experience.
For an extra kick, add some jalapeño to the mixture!
Fun Idea: Let kids build their own cilantro lime tacos with various toppings.
20. Chocolate Chip Meatballs
And for a fun dessert twist, try chocolate chip meatballs! Yes, you read that right! These sweet bites use ground meat and chocolate chips for a delightful treat.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup oats, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1 egg, 1/4 cup brown sugar.
Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients. 2. Form into balls. 3. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or just on their own for a fun dessert!
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combo!
Fun Idea: Let kids create their own dessert bowl with toppings like whipped cream or sprinkles!
Conclusion
With these 20 kid-friendly air fryer meatball recipes, dinner time is bound to become an exciting adventure that everyone will look forward to. Not only are these recipes easy to make, but they also encourage kids to explore new flavors and engage with their meals in creative ways. Get your little chefs involved in the cooking process, and watch as they develop a love for food that lasts a lifetime!
Now it’s time to gather your ingredients and start your air fryer adventure. Happy cooking!
