Why do we love a meatball? They're so easy for little bubs to pick up and feed themselves, but they also mash easily if your little one isn't quite up to self-feeding yet. Mince is a really affordable way to get meat into your family (hello, protein and iron). It cooks quickly and is super versatile.
This recipe freezes well too, so you could double it and freeze half for the freezer stash.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Makes: About 20 small meatballs
Freezer friendly: Yes
Texture: Soft
Age & Texture Guidance
Suitable from 6 months.
6–9 months: Offer whole meatballs to grab and gum, or mash with a fork for bubs not yet self-feeding.
9–12 months: Offer halved or in smaller pieces as pincer grip develops.
12 months+: Serve as is with veggies and a dip.
Allergens Present
Wheat (breadcrumbs). This recipe uses a flax egg, so it is naturally egg free.
Allergen Substitutions
Wheat/gluten free: swap the breadcrumbs for almond meal.
Why We Love This Recipe
Soft and easy for little hands to pick up or mash
An affordable way to offer protein and iron
Naturally egg free
Freezer friendly — double the batch
Pork and Pear Meatballs
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 500g pork mince
- 100g pear puree
- ½ brown onion, diced
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 flax egg (could use egg if not egg free)
- Olive oil spray
Method
- Preheat oven to 200C and line 2 baking sheets with baking paper
- Add all ingredients to a mixing bowl and mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into balls and place on prepared trays. Spray with olive oil spray.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Serve with
- Steamed or grilled broccoli or green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon
- Greek yogurt mixed with 1 tsp of tahini and some lemon juice
Storage Instructions
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat until piping hot all the way through, then cool to a safe temperature before serving.
Nutrition Notes
Pork mince is an affordable source of protein and iron, while the pear adds natural sweetness and moisture. A soft, easy-to-grip way to offer iron-rich meat to growing babies.
Parent Tip
Double the batch and freeze half for your stash. For younger bubs, or those not yet self-feeding, simply mash the meatballs with a fork.
Frequently Asked Questions
From what age can babies have these?
From around 6 months. They're soft and easy to mash, or to pick up as little ones develop their grip.
Are these egg free?
Yes — the recipe uses a flax egg, so they're naturally egg free. You can use a regular egg if you prefer.
How do I make them wheat free?
Swap the breadcrumbs for almond meal.
What should I serve with them?
Lovely with steamed broccoli or green beans and a yoghurt-tahini dip.