In a medium bowl, combine 1 pound lean ground beef, 1/2 small onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs, 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1 large egg, and 1/2 cup milk.
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are just combined; avoid overmixing.
Shape the mixture into 2-inch meatballs, rolling between your palms to form even balls.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (if your model requires preheating). Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each meatball so air can circulate.
Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, turning the meatballs once halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Check that meatballs are cooked through (no pink in the center). Remove from the air fryer and let rest a minute or two before serving.