Gather all your ingredients and ensure they are measured accurately. Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor, so don't skip on those!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef and lean ground sausage. Add the bread crumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, fresh parsley, fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy transfer.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Once preheated, carefully place the meatballs in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each meatball to allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to do this in batches. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through for uniform browning.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If they need more time, continue cooking in 2-minute intervals until done.
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them with your favorite sauce, over pasta, or even in a meatball sandwich. They are perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner!
