Meatballs can be a lighter dinner when you start with lean mince — and the air fryer helps, letting the fat drain away as they brown. Serve in a light tomato sauce. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How do you make low-fat meatballs in an air fryer?
A: Use lean (5%) mince, roll into balls, and air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes to an internal 74°C — the fat drains away.
Q: How do you keep them juicy?
A: Add grated onion and a little breadcrumb, and don't overcook.
The method
Use lean beef or turkey mince with grated onion for moisture, roll into balls, and air fry until browned — the fat drips away rather than sitting in a pan. Simmer them briefly in a simple tomato sauce, or serve as they are.
The recipe
Low-Fat Air Fryer Meatballs
Ingredients
- 500g lean (5%) beef or turkey mince
- ½ onion grated, garlic
- 30g breadcrumbs, herbs
- 400g passata for the sauce
Method
- Mix and roll into balls.
- Air fry at 190°C for 12–15 minutes.
- Simmer briefly in the passata.
- Check 74°C; serve.
Tips
- Lean mince and drained fat keep them light.
- Grated onion keeps them juicy.
- Light tomato sauce rather than creamy. More in our low-fat recipes.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make low-fat meatballs in an air fryer?
Use lean 5% mince with grated onion, roll into balls, and air fry at 190°C for 12–15 minutes to an internal 74°C. Simmer in a light tomato sauce if you like.
Do air fryer meatballs drain the fat?
Yes — as they brown, the rendered fat drips away rather than sitting in a pan, so they end up leaner.
Is this medical advice?
No. These are general lower-fat ideas. A fatty liver should be managed with your GP or dietitian, alongside guidance from the NHS and the British Liver Trust.