Porcupine Meatballs: A Comforting Family Favorite
If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than porcupine meatballs. This classic dish combines tender meatballs with rice, creating a unique texture that resembles a porcupine’s quills. It’s an easy recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a bit of nostalgia to your dining table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, porcupine meatballs are sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
To prepare porcupine meatballs, gather the following ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 cup water
These ingredients work together to create flavorful and juicy meatballs that are both filling and comforting. The combination of beef, rice, and spices provides rich flavors while keeping the dish simple.
Instructions
To make porcupine meatballs, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
In a baking dish, arrange the meatballs in a single layer.
In another bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and water. Pour this mixture over the arranged meatballs.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help distribute the flavors.
Serve your porcupine meatballs with crusty bread or over spaghetti for a delightful meal. Enjoy!
This simple recipe is perfect for families looking for comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Porcupine meatballs bring warmth to any table setting and are sure to be loved by kids and adults alike. The combination of ingredients creates a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. With just a few steps and basic ingredients, you can prepare this delightful meal any day of the week. So gather your family around the table and enjoy these tasty porcupine meatballs together!
Tips and tricks
To make the best porcupine meatballs, follow these helpful tips. Start by using a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. Adding cooked rice gives these meatballs their unique texture and name. Make sure to season the mixture well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance the taste. When shaping the meatballs, keep them uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Baking the meatballs in the oven rather than frying can make cleanup easier and reduce excess fat. Serve with a rich tomato sauce over spaghetti or on their own for a satisfying meal.
FAQs
What are porcupine meatballs?
Porcupine meatballs are a delicious dish made from ground meat mixed with rice, which creates a spiky appearance when cooked. The rice sticks out like quills, giving them their unique name. This dish is often simmered in tomato sauce, making it flavorful and hearty.
Can I use different types of meat for porcupine meatballs?
Yes, you can use different types of ground meat for porcupine meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you prefer leaner options. Mixing meats can also add depth to the flavor profile while keeping the traditional rice element intact.
How do I store leftover porcupine meatballs?
Store leftover porcupine meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy this tasty meal later without losing its flavor.
The porcupine meatballs recipe provides a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy your family or guests. With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, this dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal that everyone will love.