Enjoy a hearty and nostalgic meal with Porcupine Meatballs! These flavorful meatballs are named for their unique appearance, with rice sticking out like quills, and are cooked in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish combines simplicity with delicious comfort.
Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful meatballs!
Ingredients
1 For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
2 For the Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, finely chopped onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined but don’t overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet or a large plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a large saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook the Meatballs
Carefully place the meatballs into the saucepan with the sauce. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the meatballs are coated with the sauce.
5. Serve
Serve the porcupine meatballs hot, spooned over cooked rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Rice: Use long-grain rice for best results, as it cooks evenly and remains separate during cooking.
- Meatball Size: Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Simmering: Allowing the meatballs to simmer slowly helps the flavors meld together and ensures the rice is fully cooked.
Substitutions/Variations
- Ground Meat: You can substitute ground turkey or pork for the ground beef if you prefer.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
For best results, use uncooked rice. Pre-cooked rice may not absorb the flavors as well and could affect the texture of the meatballs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover porcupine meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce. Let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Storage Instructions
Store cooled meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
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Enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Porcupine Meatballs—a classic dish that’s sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your table. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, these meatballs are a delicious way to savor a bit of nostalgia. Happy cooking!