There are a lot of meatball recipes for kids out there, to say nothing of the many more available for adults; we’ve written a few of our own, to be sure. But these, dare we say it, are the single best meatballs for kids we’ve conceived. They’re super moist; they’re deeply flavorful. They’re easy to make; they’re accessible, while also introducing kids to elemental Chinese flavors. And did we mention there are vegetables in them?
Our secret here is the use of tofu and a double–but fast and easy!–cook of searing and steaming, which draws out flavor while ensuring a soft and supple texture; our sneak are grated carrots, which are indiscernible in both taste and texture in the final product. In China, where the technique and product are often referred to as Lion’s Head, the meatballs would be ginormous, split by an entire table and mixed in with other foods; in our recipe, the meatballs go “fun size,” big enough to be a dinner protein but small enough that a toddler can easily cut through and eat them. Pair them with rice or noodles and you’ll a lion’s head of your own: your child’s roar of approval.
(P.S.: trying to figure out what to do with the rest of the tofu block? Check out our great tofu recipes for inspo!)
Overview
These Lion’s Head–style pork meatballs might just be the best meatballs for kids — juicy, tender, and packed with hidden nutrition. Inspired by a classic Chinese dish but adapted for smaller hands and milder palates, they deliver big flavor in a small, approachable package. The combo of pork and tofu gives these meatballs a light, bouncy texture, while grated carrots and scallions subtly add both color and vitamins. Whether served over rice or noodles, they’re easy to cut, easy to love, and easy to make again and again.
Ingredients at a Glance
You won’t need much for these toddler-friendly meatballs:
- Ground pork provides protein and savory depth.
- Silken tofu keeps them moist and tender—no dry, tough meatballs here.
- Grated carrots sneak in a vegetable boost while blending seamlessly into the mix.
- Sesame oil, soy sauce, and fish sauce layer in umami and a hint of complexity, giving kids a taste of gentle Asian-style seasoning.
- Ginger and scallions (or chives) round things out with aromatic warmth.
- Egg and a touch of cornstarch help bind everything together.
Breadcrumbs are optional; add them only if the mixture feels too soft.
Instructions Summary
Making these couldn’t be simpler:
- Mix all the ingredients until combined and chill briefly to firm up.
- Shape into small meatballs—no need for perfection!
- Dip and sear each one in a light soy-cornstarch glaze for a golden crust.
- Steam briefly until just cooked through, keeping the centers juicy and tender.
The result? Moist, flavorful meatballs that hold together beautifully and practically melt in your child’s mouth.
What Parents Will Like
- Nutritious but hidden vegetables: Carrots and tofu boost nutrition without changing flavor or texture.
- Soft, easy texture: Ideal for toddlers and young kids still developing chewing skills.
- Balanced flavor: Gentle Asian-style seasoning introduces new tastes without overwhelming little palates.
- Batch-friendly: They reheat perfectly, making them a great make-ahead meal or lunchbox option.
- Flexible pairings: Serve with rice, noodles, or even in a bento box for a quick, well-rounded meal.
FAQ
Can I use another meat?
Yes. Ground chicken or turkey works well, though pork gives the best flavor and juiciness.
Do I have to steam them?
Steaming ensures the delicate, tender texture that defines Lion’s Head meatballs. If you skip this step, they’ll be firmer and less moist.
What if I don’t have tofu?
You can substitute with an extra egg yolk or a splash of milk and breadcrumbs, though the texture will be slightly denser.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a container or bag. Reheat by steaming or microwaving until warm throughout.
Serving Ideas
These best meatballs for kids are endlessly versatile—serve over steamed rice, alongside sautéed noodles, or with a simple dipping sauce like soy-honey glaze. Add a few bright veggies (carrots, broccoli, peas) and you’ve got a dinner that looks as good as it tastes—one that will earn a big, proud roar from your little lion.
The Best Meatballs For Kids (Lion’s Head)
Description
These Lion’s Head–inspired pork meatballs are the best meatballs for kids, with tofu and carrots for a soft, juicy texture. Quick to make and fun to eat, they’re a guaranteed family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prep
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Grate the carrot(s) into a large bowl.
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Add the pork, tofu, egg, sesame oil, fish sauce, scallions, and ginger to the bowl, along with a pinch each of salt and pepper. Using a spatula or big spoon, scoop and stir until everything in the bowl is blended together; if meat mixture is wet and loose, add a shakes of breadcrumbs one at a time until the mixture is thick enough to hold together. If you have time, let the meat mixture sit in the fridge for 30-60 minutes in order to firm up.
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To form meatballs, scoop up a chunk of the meat mixture with a spoon and scrap the meat against one of your palms; roll it between both palms or fingers until it takes a rough ball shape. (Don’t worry if your balls are misshapen.)
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In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch, soy sauce, and 1/2 tablespoon of water until fully blended.
Cook
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Heat a large pot or Dutch oven to Medium High; coat the bottom of the pot with oil.
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Dip meatballs in soy-cornstarch mixture, then immediately place into pot, making sure that the meatballs are touching the bottom of the pot and not touching other pieces. Sear the meatballs until brown on the bottom, roughly 60-90 seconds; flip to another side and again sear until browned, 60 seconds. Remove meatballs from heat.
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Clean out your pot, then pour in a cup and half of water; heat until boiling. Place meatballs in a steamer tray and put the tray into pot; cover and steam meatballs for five minutes. (Note: if you’ve formed larger balls, they will likely need an additional 2-3 minutes of steaming to be completely cooked in the middle.)
Serve
Adapt
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Beef works just fine here, too. Don’t have and/or don’t want to use tofu? Add the whites of two eggs instead. If your kiddo demands a sauce, know that regular ol’ marinara sauce works just fine with the meatballs.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 2 meatballs
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 165kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11g17%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
- Sodium 125mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.25g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 13g26%
- Vitamin A 107 IU
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin B12 0.3 mcg
- Zinc 1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
