Air Fryer Impossible Vegan Meatballs – Plant-Based Protein Main Dish

If you’re looking for a fast, plant-based protein to add to your meal, these Air Fryer Impossible Vegan Meatballs are a must-try! Ready in just 10 minutes with no defrosting required, they’re incredibly flavorful, making them a go-to for pastas, appetizers, or enjoying on their own with dipping sauces.

 

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Impossible Vegan Meatballs

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with no defrosting needed, these meatballs are perfect for busy days when you need a meal in a hurry. Just pop them in the air fryer, and you’re all set!
• Incredibly Tasty: These meatballs have a savory, meaty flavor that even non-vegans will love. They’re seasoned to perfection, offering a satisfying bite every time.
• Healthy and Plant-Based: Made with plant-based ingredients, Impossible Meatballs provide a high-protein alternative to traditional meatballs without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy a guilt-free meal that aligns with your dietary choices.
• Crispy and Tender Texture: The air fryer brings out the best of these meatballs, giving them a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Perfect for dunking in marinara or adding to your favorite pasta!
• Versatile: These vegan meatballs are ideal as an appetizer, a protein addition to pasta, or even on a sub with sauce and cheese. They work in so many dishes, making them a great choice for any meal.

 

Ingredients for Air Fryer Impossible Vegan Meatballs

• Frozen Impossible Meatballs – These plant-based meatballs are seasoned to taste like traditional meatballs, giving a savory, meaty flavor with no animal products.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

 

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Impossible Vegan Meatballs

• Air Fryer – Cooks the meatballs to a perfect crispy exterior while keeping them juicy inside.

 

How To Make Air Fryer Impossible Vegan Meatballs

• Place the frozen Impossible Meatballs directly into the air fryer basket without defrosting.
• Slide the basket into the air fryer and set the temperature to 390°F.
• Set the timer for 10 minutes and let the meatballs cook.
• Once the timer goes off, remove the basket and check the meatballs. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• Cut one open to ensure they’re fully cooked and serve as desired!

 

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the meatballs with a side of warm cherry tomato sauce for dipping or tossing for a classic Italian touch.
• Add these meatballs to your favorite pasta with homemade alfredo sauce for a comforting, plant-based meal.
• Place the meatballs in a hoagie roll with marinara and vegan cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
• Serve with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces like barbecue or spicy sriracha for a tasty party appetizer.
• For a lower-carb option, pair the meatballs with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles and a drizzle of tomato sauce.

 

Tips For Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Place the meatballs in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness. If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in batches to get the best texture.
• Adjust Time as Needed: Air fryer models can vary, so check your meatballs a minute or two early to avoid overcooking. You want them golden and crispy but not dried out.
• Add a Sauce After Cooking: For extra flavor, toss the cooked meatballs in marinara, barbecue, or another sauce of your choice after they’re done cooking in the air fryer. This helps keep their crispy texture while adding a burst of flavor.
• Experiment with Spices and Herbs: Try adding some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan on top after cooking for extra flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice heat for those who like it spicy.
• Serve Immediately: These meatballs taste best right after they come out of the air fryer, as they keep their crispy texture. If you need to hold them for a bit, a warm oven at a low temperature will help maintain their warmth without compromising the texture.

 

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Sauces: Try tossing the meatballs in various sauces like teriyaki, sweet and sour, or buffalo for a unique flavor twist. Each sauce brings a different taste, making these meatballs versatile for any meal.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re gluten-sensitive, check the package of Impossible Meatballs to ensure they meet your dietary needs, or substitute with another gluten-free vegan meatball brand.
• Herb and Spice Boost: Add extra seasonings, like garlic powder, Italian herbs, or smoked paprika, for a more intense flavor. Sprinkle the spices directly on the meatballs after cooking for the best flavor retention.
• Cheesy Vegan Meatballs: After air frying, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese over the meatballs and return to the air fryer for a minute to melt. This gives you a cheesy, satisfying meatball experience.
• Serve with Zoodles for Low-Carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb, nutrient-dense alternative. Simply cook or spiralize the zucchini and top it with meatballs and marinara.

 

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you won’t eat them within a few days, freeze the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them in 30-second intervals, but they may lose some crispiness.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook these meatballs from thawed instead of frozen?

Yes, you can cook them from thawed, but reduce the cooking time to around 6-8 minutes at 390°F. They may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

 

 

Are Impossible Meatballs gluten-free?

Impossible Meatballs contain some wheat-based ingredients, so they may not be suitable for a gluten-free diet. Be sure to check the packaging if you have dietary restrictions or opt for a certified gluten-free brand.

 

 

What’s the best sauce to pair with these vegan meatballs?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but they’re also delicious with barbecue, teriyaki, or even a creamy vegan alfredo. Feel free to experiment with your favorite sauces!

 

 

How can I make these meatballs extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, you can spray a light coat of cooking spray over the meatballs before air frying. This will help them get a golden, crunchy exterior.

 

Can I add these meatballs to pasta directly from the air fryer?

Absolutely! After air frying, they’re ready to be added directly to pasta or any dish you choose. Just add sauce and enjoy a quick, delicious meal.

 

Other Easy Meatball Recipes

Instant Pot Meatballs from Frozen: Make tender, juicy meatballs straight from frozen in your Instant Pot, perfect for a quick, hassle-free meal.

Low Carb Keto Meatballs in the Oven: These oven-baked keto meatballs are low in carbs and big on flavor, making them ideal for a satisfying, healthy dinner.

Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese: Enjoy every bite of these delicious meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese for an indulgent twist on a classic favorite.

Swedish Meatballs in the Slow Cooker: Slow-cooked to perfection, these creamy Swedish meatballs are a cozy, comforting meal with minimal prep.

Instant Pot Porcupine Meatballs with Rice: A hearty and flavorful dish, these porcupine meatballs with rice cook quickly in the Instant Pot for an easy, family-friendly dinner.

Baked Keto Turkey and Spinach Meatballs: These baked turkey and spinach meatballs are low-carb and packed with protein, perfect for keto meal prep.

Russian Rice Meatballs “Ezhiki”: Traditional Russian meatballs mixed with rice, these “Ezhiki” are a comforting, flavorful dish with a unique texture.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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