Air-Fryer Creamy Garlic Meatball Orzo Pot

Home Alone · Recipe For One

Air-Fryer Creamy Garlic Meatball Orzo Pot

Sometimes you want something that feels like you've spent hours cooking it, when in reality it's one tray and about half an hour. Juicy homemade meatballs, tender orzo and a rich creamy garlic sauce come together into a proper comfort meal that's perfectly sized for one. No leftovers, no waste, just one bowl of serious comfort food.

Air-Fryer Creamy Garlic Meatball Orzo Pot
Air-Fryer Creamy Garlic Meatball Orzo Pot preparation stage

You’ll Need

Meatballs
150g lean beef mince (5–10% fat)
1 tbsp breadcrumbs
1 tbsp grated Parmesan
½ small egg, beaten
1 clove garlic, finely grated
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper
Orzo Pot
75g dried orzo
¼ small onion, finely diced
1 clove garlic, finely sliced
1 tsp olive oil
50ml chicken stock
50ml double cream
20g grated Parmesan
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper
Small handful of chopped fresh parsley

Optional but Dangerous
Garlic bread
Chilli flakes
Extra Parmesan
Fresh spinach

Method

Preheat your air fryer to 190°C.

In a bowl, combine the beef mince, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, grated garlic, oregano, salt and black pepper.

Shape into 4–5 small meatballs.

Place the meatballs into the air fryer basket and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through until browned.

Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to the packet instructions until just tender. Drain well.

In a small foil tray or heatproof dish, combine the onion, sliced garlic and olive oil.

Air fry for 4–5 minutes, until softened.

Stir in the cooked orzo, chicken stock, double cream, Parmesan, thyme, salt and black pepper.

Add the cooked meatballs and stir gently so they're coated in the creamy sauce.

Return to the air fryer for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly and everything is piping hot.

Finish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Lad Tip: Orzo is one of the most underrated cupboard ingredients for cooking alone. It cooks quickly, takes on loads of flavour and makes small meals feel much more substantial without needing loads of extra ingredients.

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