Porcupine meatballs are fun and tasty! These little meatballs are packed with rice and ground meat, making them nice and hearty. Plus, they get a lovely glaze from the tomato sauce!
I love how quirky they look with the rice poking out like a porcupine’s quills! They’re also easy to make—just mix, shape, and cook. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use ground beef for its flavor and texture, but ground turkey is a leaner option. Both work well here. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try meat substitutes like lentils or a blend of mushrooms and quinoa instead.
Long-Grain White Rice: Uncooked long-grain rice is perfect for this recipe because it cooks alongside the meatballs. If you want a quicker option, use cooked rice instead, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Brown rice can also be a great substitute for added nutrients, just increase the cooking time.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute it with shallots for a milder taste or skip it entirely if you’re not a fan of onions. Adding onion powder could also work in a pinch.
Tomato Sauce: This sauce is the base of the dish’s flavor. You can use marinara or canned diced tomatoes if you’re looking for a bit more texture. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper to the sauce.
How to Shape Perfect Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs might seem tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward! The key is to keep your hands wet while forming them, as this prevents sticking. Here’s how to do it:
- Take a scoop of the mixture (about 1/4 cup) in your hands.
- Roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Avoid squeezing too hard; a gentle roll is enough to keep them tender.
Don’t stress about them being perfect; even irregular shapes will taste great! Just try to make them roughly the same size for even cooking.
How to Make Porcupine Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook. You’ll mix the ingredients, shape the meatballs, and bake them in a delicious sauce, making it a simple and satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it nice and warm for baking your meatballs.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), uncooked rice, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s nicely combined.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take a handful of the mixture and roll it into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. This sauce is going to add great flavor to your meatballs!
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are nicely covered. Then, cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil, which helps keep them moist while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Let the meatballs bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and get more flavorful.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the meatballs are cooked, take them out of the oven and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch. Serve your porcupine meatballs over a bed of cooked rice, drizzled with the tasty sauce from the baking dish. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it takes longer to cook. Consider pre-cooking the brown rice or increasing the baking time by about 15-20 minutes for the meatballs to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. For even more variety, you can use ground chicken or a plant-based meat substitute if you’re making it vegetarian. Just ensure the texture is similar to ground beef to maintain the meatball structure.
How to Store Leftover Porcupine Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just make sure to let them cool fully before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, add your sauce and bake as directed. You can also freeze formed meatballs for later use—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen!
