Air Fryer Pork Meatballs Recipe

Ground pork: The main protein for the meatballs, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Helps to bind the meatballs together and adds a slight crunch.

Beaten egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs from falling apart.

Minced garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor to the meatballs.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Dried oregano: Provides a hint of earthy and slightly bitter flavor, complementing the pork.

When forming the meatballs, ensure they are of uniform size to promote even cooking. Using a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon can help achieve consistent 1-inch meatballs. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this allows hot air to circulate properly around each meatball, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a nice, golden-brown exterior.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and has a similar texture, making it a healthier alternative.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is also a leaner meat and can provide a similar consistency to pork.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar binding effect and texture in the meatballs.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats can be used as a healthier, whole-grain alternative to breadcrumbs.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoon water) can be used as a vegan binding agent.

• beaten egg - Substitute with chia egg: A chia egg (1 tablespoon chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoon water) works similarly to a flax egg for binding.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Minced shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture to the mixture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute for regular table salt, often with a slightly different mineral content.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, often used in lighter-colored dishes.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a spicier kick, so use it sparingly if you prefer less heat.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can provide a different but complementary herb flavor to the meatballs.

• dried oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning often contains oregano along with other herbs, providing a more complex flavor.

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled meatballs to an airtight container. If stacking, place a layer of parchment paper between each layer to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are firm.
• Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Frozen meatballs can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the meatballs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave Method: Place the meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of broth to the pan. Add the meatballs and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• Slow Cooker Method: Place the meatballs in your slow cooker. Add a bit of broth or sauce to keep them moist. Set the slow cooker to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until they are thoroughly warmed.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the meatballs, ensuring they become golden brown and cooked through with minimal oil.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the breadcrumbs accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, black pepper, and dried oregano accurately.

• Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic cloves efficiently.

• Whisk: Used to beat the egg before adding it to the mixture.

• Spoon: Used to help mix the ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Tongs: Used to shake the basket halfway through cooking and to remove the meatballs from the air fryer.

• Plate: Used to place the formed meatballs before transferring them to the air fryer.

• Kitchen scale: Optional, but can be used to ensure the meatballs are of uniform size.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure out and mince garlic in advance to streamline the process.

Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Opt for store-bought breadcrumbs to save time on preparation.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra meatballs for future meals.

Uniform shape: Use a small ice cream scoop to form evenly sized meatballs quickly.

Preheat air fryer: Start preheating the air fryer while mixing the ingredients to save time.