How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer German-Style Sauerbraten Meatballs with Tangy Red Cabbage Slaw

Name: Air Fryer German-Style Sauerbraten Meatballs with Tangy Red Cabbage Slaw
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef; 1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp finely chopped onion; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp ground allspice; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing); 3 cups red cabbage, shredded; 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 10, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Crispy air fryer beef meatballs seasoned with German sauerbraten spices, served alongside a zesty, crunchy red cabbage slaw. This wholesome meal is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Start cooking

Air fryerGermanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time18 mins

Total Time28 mins

Servings4

Temperature375°F / 190°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tbsp finely chopped onion
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
3 cups red cabbage, shredded
1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, gluten-free breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground allspice, black pepper, salt, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Place them on a plate.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil to help achieve a crispy exterior.
Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 9 minutes.
After 9 minutes, carefully flip the meatballs and cook for another 9 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
While the meatballs air fry, prepare the tangy red cabbage slaw: In a medium bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Add shredded red cabbage and shredded carrot to the dressing. Toss well to evenly coat. Let the slaw sit for at least 5 minutes to develop flavor.
Serve the crispy sauerbraten meatballs hot from the air fryer alongside a generous helping of the tangy red cabbage slaw for a fresh, comforting German-inspired meal.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the lean ground beef dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer German-Style Sauerbraten Meatballs with Tangy Red Cabbage Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer German-Style Sauerbraten Meatballs with Tangy Red Cabbage Slaw ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.