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Veggie Balls (Air Fried) Recipe

4.7 from 114 reviews

These crispy and flavorful Veggie Balls are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meatballs. Made with cauliflower rice, broccoli rice, and almond flour, they are seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, then cooked to perfection using an air fryer or baked in the oven. Perfect as a gluten-free, low-carb side or main dish, they pair wonderfully with your favorite pasta and sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs:

  • 1 ½ Cups Fresh Cauliflower Rice
  • 1 Cup Broccoli Rice
  • ½ Cup Almond Flour
  • 1 Whipped Egg
  • 1 Teaspoon Olive Oil

Seasoning:

  • ¼ Teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ Teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ¼ Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 2 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Basil
  • 1 Tablespoon Chopped Parsley

Instructions

  1. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cauliflower rice, broccoli rice, whipped egg, olive oil, and almond flour. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a consistent mixture.
  2. Add Seasonings and Herbs: To the mixture, add salt, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil, and parsley. Use a fork or spatula to combine everything evenly, ensuring the herbs and spices are fully distributed throughout the mixture.
  3. Shape the Veggie Balls: Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or preheat your air fryer. Roll the mixture into 1 ½ inch diameter balls; you should be able to make approximately 15 meatballs.
  4. Cook the Veggie Balls: For air frying, place the balls in the preheated air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, until they turn golden and firm.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, serve the veggie balls hot alongside your favorite gluten-free pasta and sauce for a wholesome and tasty meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the mixture is compact enough when forming balls so they hold their shape during cooking.
  • Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more herbs or spices if desired.
  • These veggie balls can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
  • For a vegan version, substitute the whipped egg with a flax egg or other binder alternatives.
  • Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model or oven, so keep an eye on the balls to prevent burning.

Keywords: veggie balls, air fried veggie balls, cauliflower meatballs, gluten free meatballs, healthy appetizers, low carb snacks