Porcupine meatballs are a comforting classic, combining tender meatballs stuffed with rice, which resembles the quills of a porcupine as they cook. This dish is not only hearty but also incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Serve them with a side of fluffy rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of porcupine meatballs (about 3 meatballs) contains approximately 320 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is calculated based on the ingredients listed above.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, rice, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate saucepan, heat tomato sauce over medium heat.
- Add Italian seasoning to the sauce, stirring well.
- Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the meatballs to the sauce.
- Cover the saucepan and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or pasta.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, brown rice can be used instead of white rice for added nutrition, and vegetable broth can replace milk for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Porcupine meatballs are delicious served with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish freezes well; just ensure to separate the meatballs and sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the meat mixture can result in tough meatballs.
- Not letting the sauce simmer can lead to undercooked rice.
- Using too much salt can overpower the dish.
- Not browning the meatballs beforehand may affect flavor.
- Forgetting to cover the pot can dry out the meatballs.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
- Let the meatballs rest before serving for better flavor.
- Add herbs like parsley for extra freshness.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Try adding grated cheese to the meat mixture for richness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as alternatives to beef. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture but will work well in this recipe.
How do I know if my meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cutting one open to check for no pinkness is effective.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the sauce when you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with porcupine meatballs?
They pair well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. A side of vegetables or salad complements the dish nicely.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, porcupine meatballs freeze well. Store them in freezer-safe containers and reheat when needed. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Porcupine meatballs are a comforting and versatile dish that brings warmth to any table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that make this dish a family favorite!
Porcupine Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, rice, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate saucepan, heat tomato sauce over medium heat.
- Add Italian seasoning to the sauce, stirring well.
- Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the meatballs to the sauce.
- Cover the saucepan and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or pasta.
Nutrition
