Porcupine Meatballs: The Nostalgic Dinner Everyone Loves Again

 

Remember that cozy, comforting dish from childhood? Porcupine Meatballs are making a comeback! This updated version is just as easy and delicious as you remember. It’s perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a potluck gathering. Let’s rediscover the magic of this classic meal!

Why You’ll Love This Porcupine Meatball Recipe

• Ready in under an hour.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have.
• Comfort food that brings back memories.
• Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd.
• Less mess than making individual stuffed peppers.
• The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth.
• A satisfying and hearty meal the whole family will love.
• Easy enough for beginner cooks to master.

These meatballs are a delightful blend of savory and slightly tangy, making them absolutely irresistible. Plus, they are incredibly versatile. Serve them over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal!

Ingredients Needed for Porcupine Meatballs

For the Meatballs:

• 1 1/2 pounds (680g) ground beef. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or use a blend of ground beef and ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup (90g) uncooked long-grain rice. Long-grain rice works best, providing a nice “porcupine” texture.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup/150g). Finely chop the onion to ensure it cooks evenly and blends well into the meatball mixture.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten. The egg acts as a binder, holding the meatballs together.
• 1 teaspoon salt. Enhances the flavor of the meatballs.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Adds a subtle spice to the meatballs.
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley. Adds a fresh, herbal note to the meatballs. You can also use dried parsley if fresh isn’t available, but use half the amount.

For the Sauce:

• 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes. Crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce, providing a rich tomato flavor.
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce. Tomato sauce adds thickness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth. Beef broth enhances the savory flavor of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Adds a complex, umami flavor to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Provides a convenient way to add garlic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Complements the fresh onion in the meatballs and adds depth to the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). Adds a touch of heat to the sauce. Omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil. Used to sauté the sauce ingredients and add richness.

For the best flavor, consider using high-quality canned tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible. Toasting the spices lightly before adding them to the sauce can also enhance their aroma and flavor.

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Essential Equipment List

• Large Bowl: For mixing the meatball ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
• Large, Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: Provides ample space for simmering the meatballs in the sauce.

A sturdy skillet or Dutch oven is essential for even cooking and heat distribution. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large, deep skillet with a lid will work just fine.

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
• Total Time: 65-80 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up this recipe for a larger gathering or meal prep. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley.
2. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.

Form the Meatballs

1. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You should get about 24-30 meatballs.
2. Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet while you prepare the sauce.

Make the Sauce

1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Stir to combine. Bringing the sauce to a simmer before adding the meatballs helps to develop the flavors and ensure even cooking.

Simmer the Meatballs

1. Gently place the meatballs into the sauce.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the meatballs are tender.
3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out.

Serve

1. Serve the porcupine meatballs hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese also makes a delicious addition.

CHECK OUT: Easy Cabbage Casserole – Another comforting casserole to try out this season.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the meatballs: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined.
• Use quality ingredients: High-quality ground beef and canned tomatoes will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Simmer gently: Simmering the meatballs over low heat ensures they cook evenly and remain tender.
• Adjust the sauce to your liking: Feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or onion powder to suit your taste preferences.
• Check for doneness: The meatballs are done when the rice is cooked through and the meatballs are tender.

For a deeper flavor, consider browning the meatballs in the skillet before adding them to the sauce. This adds a rich, caramelized note to the dish.

Variations & Substitutions

• Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
• Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Vegetarian: Make a vegetarian version using plant-based ground meat substitute.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

Get creative with your variations! Try adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for added vegetables.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Porcupine Meatballs

• Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and classic combination.
• Toss with your favorite pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Porcupine Meatballs are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. They are also a great option for meal prepping, as they taste even better the next day!

Health Benefits

Here are the key nutritional benefits of this dish:

• The protein content contributes to satiety, helping you feel full and satisfied.
• Ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron, which are essential for building and repairing tissues.
• The tomato sauce adds Vitamin C and antioxidants.
• The dish can be made lower in sodium by choosing low-sodium broth and reducing added salt.

Storage & Reheating

• Here are the best ways to store and reheat leftover porcupine meatballs:
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
• To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave until heated through.
• For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them when you’re ready to cook.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Long-grain rice works best, but you can experiment with other types of rice if you prefer. Keep in mind that cook times may vary.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, porcupine meatballs freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Be gentle when mixing the meatball ingredients and avoid overmixing. Also, make sure the sauce is simmering gently and not boiling vigorously.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would be great additions to the sauce.

What if the sauce is too thick?

Add a little more beef broth to thin it out.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this in a slow cooker. Brown the meatballs first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 20g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful meals? Check out these delightful recipes:

• Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat – A sweet and spiced loaf perfect for autumn days.
• Cheesy Garlic Rolls – Soft, garlicky, and cheesy rolls that make the perfect side dish.
• Irresistible Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites for Parties – Perfect for parties!

Conclusion

These Porcupine Meatballs are a fast, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Whip them up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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