Porcupine Meatballs and Rice are fun and tasty! These meatballs are made with ground beef, rice, and delicious seasonings, making them super easy to enjoy.
The rice poking out like a porcupine’s quills adds a silly touch. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and makes mealtime feel special. I love serving them with a tangy tomato sauce for an extra zing!
“`
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Quality matters! Use lean ground beef for less fat, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Rice: Long-grain rice works best for its texture but you can swap it with brown rice or any other favorite grain. Keep in mind that cooking times might change a bit, so adjust accordingly!
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add sweetness and depth to the dish. If you don’t have fresh, frozen diced onion and bell pepper can be used. Shallots can also add a nice touch if you want a milder flavor!
Canned Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Soup: The tomatoes are key for the sauce’s flavor. You can use fresh tomatoes and a pinch of sugar instead. For health, opt for low-sodium soup.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a nice umami flavor. If you don’t have it, try using soy sauce or balsamic vinegar as a tasty substitute!
How Do You Ensure the Meatballs Stay Juicy and Soft?
The secret to juicy meatballs is all about the mixing process. You’ll want to combine the ingredients without overmixing, as this keeps the meatballs tender. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Mix everything gently until just combined—this helps keep them soft.
- Form meatballs gently without packing them too tightly.
- Cook them in a simmering sauce rather than frying, as this adds moisture.
Letting them sit a few minutes after cooking helps them set and makes them easier to serve!
“`
How to Make Porcupine Meatballs and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup long-grain rice, uncooked
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30-35 minutes to cook. In a little over an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal of Porcupine Meatballs and Rice ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, diced bell pepper (if you’re using it), beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well combined. It should all stick together nicely!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Next, take a small amount of the mixture and form it into meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 20-25 meatballs. Place the meatballs on a plate as you go to keep them organized.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, combine the diced tomatoes (with their juice), condensed tomato soup, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir the mixture well until it’s evenly combined. This will be the tasty sauce for your meatballs.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to add those lovely meatballs. Gently place the meatballs into the sauce mixture in the skillet. Turn the heat up to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It’s important to cook them slowly so they soak up that delicious sauce!
5. Cover and Simmer:
Once it’s simmering, cover the skillet with a lid. Let the meatballs cook for about 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender!
6. Rest and Garnish:
After cooking, take the skillet off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps everything settle. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Porcupine Meatballs are now ready to enjoy! Serve them over some extra rice or with crusty bread if you like. Sit down and savor the goodness of this hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may need a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor, so consider adding more spices or herbs if you prefer.
What if I Don’t Have Long-Grain Rice?
No problem! You can substitute with other types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, but you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the particular rice you choose. Just make sure it’s uncooked when mixing with the meat.
How Should I Store Leftover Porcupine Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water to keep the sauce moist.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs! Just arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen; just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time in the sauce when you’re ready to enjoy them!
