Chickpea Meatballs

Chickpeas are one of the most versatile ingredients you can use. The mild, tender legume works in soups or salads, and is an easy substitute for meat in veggie burgers or vegetarian meatballs. These chickpea meatballs are a simple recipe to whip up for a quick and light dinner that pairs with a wide variety of sides. Whether you serve them with a simple salad or pile them high on a toasted baguette, these flavorful meatballs are easy to prep. We crisp them to perfection in a hot air fryer, but you can easily bake or sear them in a pan.

Ingredients for Chickpea Meatballs

• Chickpeas or garbanzo beans: These soft, tender beans are perfect for meatballs because they’re easy to form and they hold their shape. We prefer the canned option here because it’s much quicker than using the dried alternative.
• Sweet onion: Onion gives these meatballs some sweet, earthy flavor. Chop the onion before putting it in the food processor to ensure that you’re left with consistent bits rather than large chunks.
• Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is perfect for adding savory flavor here. Once cooked, the parmesan melts and lends a creamy texture to each bite.
• Egg: Egg is a great way to bind together meatballs of any kind, especially these chickpea meatballs. It also adds necessary moisture to prevent the balls from getting too hard or drying out.
• Basil leaves: Sweet, fragrant and slightly spicy, basil is a fantastic herb to add to these mild meatballs. Since chickpeas don’t hold a ton of flavor, basil makes a bold addition that’s reminiscent of true Italian-style meatballs.
• Garlic cloves: Pungent and strong with a hint of sweetness, garlic is essential to any meatball recipe. Cut them in half before adding them to the food processor to ensure that you don’t end up with any large chunks.
• Dry bread crumbs: Along with the egg, dry bread crumbs act as a binding agent to hold these meatballs together. You can opt for preseasoned or unseasoned depending on your preference.

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Directions 

Step 1: Pulse the ingredients

Place the chickpeas, onion, Parmesan, egg, basil, garlic, salt and pepper in a food processor then add 1/3 cup of  bread crumbs. Process the ingredients until totally combined (the mixture will be soft).

Step 2: Form the balls

Shape the mixture into 1-1/2-in. balls. Place the remaining 2/3 cup bread crumbs in a shallow bowl. Gently add the balls, a few at a time, and toss to coat, then shake off any excess.

Step 3: Fry in the air fryer

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Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. In batches, place the balls in a single layer in a greased air fryer; spritz with cooking spray. Cook until golden brown, 11 to 13 minutes. If desired, top with additional fresh torn basil leaves.

Chickpea Meatball Variations

Add flavor enhancers: These meatballs are really versatile and can absolutely be adapted with different ingredients. For more enhanced flavor, try adding some chopped olives, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, or herbs such as parsley, dill or chives.

Add some heat: If you like your meatballs spicy, you can add some hot peppers here. Try including chopped jalapeños, poblano peppers or even dried chili flakes.

How to Store Chickpea Meatballs

Once the chickpea meatballs are cooked, allow any leftovers to come down to room temperature. Once they’re cooled, transfer the meatballs to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Place them in the refrigerator and store for about three to five days.

Can you freeze chickpea meatballs?

Yes. You can freeze your leftovers or an extra batch of meatballs in a well-sealed container for about three months. While you don’t need to defrost them before reheating in the air-fryer, be mindful that they may need to cook for an additional minute or two.

Chickpea Meatball Tips

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How can you make chickpea meatballs vegan?

To make these chickpea meatballs vegan, try substituting nutritional yeast or your favorite vegan cheese shaker for the Parmesan. Then, instead of using an egg as a binder, consider adding olive oil or even tomato paste for flavor, color and extra moisture.

What can you serve with chickpea meatballs?

You can serve these garbanzo bean meatballs in place of Italian-style meatballs in spaghetti or on top of pizza. You can also enjoy them on their own with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Because they’re breaded, avoid adding them to liquid-heavy dishes such as soup.

Can I bake these instead of putting them in the air fryer?

You can certainly bake these chickpea meatballs instead of cooking them in an air fryer. To do so, place them on a prepared sheet tray and pop them into an oven that’s preheated to 350°. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cook time.