The Star Players: Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pork Meatballs:
- Ground Pork: 1 pound (the star of the show!)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (I prefer Panko for a lighter texture, but regular works too)
- Milk: 1/4 cup (helps keep them moist and tender)
- Egg: 1 large (binds everything together)
- Onion: 1/2 cup, finely chopped (adds essential flavor)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped (for freshness and color)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (adds a salty, savory note)
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (a shortcut to deliciousness)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for browning the meatballs)
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- Potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and quartered (Russets or Yukon Golds work great)
- Milk: 1/2 cup (warmed)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (cut into pieces)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Optional: Sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness (1-2 tablespoons)
Let’s Get Rolling: Step-by-Step Instructions
Meatball Prep: Get Your Hands Dirty!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Use your hands to gently bring everything together.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs. I find using a small cookie scoop helps keep them uniform in size. This also ensures they cook evenly.
Sizzle and Brown: Cooking the Meatballs
- Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when you add a meatball, but not so hot that it burns.
- Brown the Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. You’re not trying to cook them all the way through at this point, just get a nice golden-brown crust. If you overcrowd the pan, they’ll steam instead of brown. Work in batches if needed.
- Simmer and Cook: Once browned, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball should read 160°F (71°C). This ensures they are safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
Mash Those Potatoes: Creamy Perfection
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. They should easily pierce with a fork without resistance.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Add the Creaminess: Gradually add the warmed milk and butter, continuing to mash or mix until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, or they can become gluey. If you’re using sour cream or cream cheese, stir it in at this point.
- Season to Taste: Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra butter or milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Putting It All Together: Plating and Serving
- Plate It Up: Spoon a generous serving of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Top with Meatballs: Arrange the pork meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Level Up Your Meatballs: Flavor Variations
Sauce It Up
While these meatballs are delicious on their own, a simple sauce can elevate them to the next level! Consider these options:
- Tomato Sauce: A classic choice! Simmer the meatballs in your favorite tomato sauce for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
- Brown Gravy: A rich and savory brown gravy pairs perfectly with pork and mashed potatoes.
- Mushroom Gravy: Add some sliced mushrooms to your brown gravy for an earthy and delicious twist.
- Sweet and Sour Sauce: For a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, try a sweet and sour sauce.
Spice It Up
Want to add a little kick to your meatballs? Try these additions:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a subtle heat.
- Chili Powder: A teaspoon of chili powder will add a warm and smoky flavor.
- Sriracha: A drizzle of Sriracha on top of the meatballs will add a spicy and tangy kick.
Herb It Up
Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of your meatballs:
- Fresh Thyme: Adds a subtle earthy and herbaceous flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary: Adds a fragrant and slightly piney flavor.
- Fresh Sage: Adds a savory and slightly peppery flavor.
Pro Tips for Meatball Mastery
- Don’t Overmix: I know I’ve said it before, but it’s important! Overmixing the meatball mixture will result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
- Use a Light Hand: When forming the meatballs, don’t pack them too tightly. A lighter touch will result in more tender meatballs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and cause the meatballs to steam instead of brown. Work in batches if needed.
- Rest the Meatballs: After forming the meatballs, let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help them hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of a meatball; it should read 160°F (71°C).
Complete the Meal: Delicious Side Dishes
While mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to these pork meatballs, here are a few other side dish ideas to round out your meal:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish.
- A simple salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meatballs and mashed potatoes.
- Green beans: Steamed or sauteed green beans are a classic side dish that pairs well with almost anything.
- And for a really special occasion, consider serving these amazing Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Casserole! If you are looking for something a bit more upscale, you could try Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, it is always a hit!
Other Pork Perfection Recipes
If you enjoyed these Pork Meatballs, here are a few other pork recipes you might like:
- Garlic Butter Pork Chops: Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.
- Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: A sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Honey Garlic Sausage Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sausage and sweet potatoes, a fantastic combination.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: Add some sweetness to your main course.
Enjoy Your Homemade Pork Meatball Feast!
There you have it! A complete guide to making the most delicious and tender pork meatballs you’ve ever had. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your variations and make this recipe your own. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness!
What kind of breadcrumbs are best for these pork meatballs?
The recipe suggests Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
How can I ensure my meatballs are cooked through properly?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center of a meatball.
What are some sauce variations I can use to elevate the pork meatballs?
The article suggests tomato sauce, brown gravy, mushroom gravy, or sweet and sour sauce as delicious options.
What is the key to preventing tough meatballs?
Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until they are just combined.
Perfect Pork Meatballs and Mash
Enjoy juicy, tender pork meatballs bursting with savory flavors, nestled on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe provides a detailed guide to create the ultimate comfort food, ensuring flavorful and tender meatballs paired with perfectly creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a guaranteed family favorite!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix.
- Roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball should read 160°F (71°C).
- Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
- Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Gradually add the warmed milk and butter, continuing to mash or mix until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. If you’re using sour cream or cream cheese, stir it in at this point.
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Add more butter or milk for desired consistency.
- Spoon a generous serving of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Arrange the pork meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil (optional).
Notes
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture for tender meatballs. Resting the meatballs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape. Simmer meatballs in tomato sauce, brown gravy, mushroom gravy, or sweet and sour sauce for added flavor. Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or Sriracha for a spicy kick. Experiment with fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage to customize the flavor. Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Mashed potatoes can be stored similarly for 1-2 days.
