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Porcupine Meatballs

Porcupine Meatballs

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 20-24 meatballs 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Contains meat, gluten (can be adapted gluten-free)

Description

Porcupine Meatballs are a comforting classic dish combining tender ground beef and uncooked white rice to create juicy meatballs that ‘sprout’ rice grains like porcupine quills. Simmered gently in a savory tomato sauce, these meatballs offer a nostalgic, family-friendly meal that balances protein and carbohydrates in one hearty dish, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 1 can (10.75 oz) tomato soup or tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water or beef broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked white rice, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently by hand or with a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs. You should get about 20-24 meatballs, each holding together well without being too packed.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully brown the meatballs on all sides to seal in juices and develop a golden crust. Meatballs do not need to be fully cooked in this step.
  4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a large pot or Dutch oven, mix the tomato soup or canned tomato sauce with water or beef broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, seasoning lightly if desired.
  5. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Gently place the browned meatballs into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmer cooks the rice inside the meatballs and infuses the sauce with rich flavors.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the rice is tender and the meatballs are cooked through, serve immediately with your favorite sides for a warm, satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use uncooked rice to ensure it cooks properly inside the meatballs during simmering.
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
  • Simmer covered to help rice steam and prevent sauce reduction.
  • Use beef or vegetable broth instead of water for richer flavor.
  • Cook one meatball first to test seasoning and rice texture before shaping the rest.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 meatballs with sauce
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Find it online: https://cooktune.com/porcupine-meatballs/