Porcupine meatballs are a classic, tasty dish that everyone can enjoy. They are called "porcupine" because they have rice mixed in, which pokes out like porcupine quills as they cook. This dish is a combo of meatballs and rice all in one, and it is super easy to make. You can serve them with tomato sauce, gravy, or any sauce you like.
It's a good meal for weeknights, special occasions, or even meal prep for the week. Kids and adults both love them, and they can be a hit at any family dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
The first great thing about porcupine meatballs is that they are easy to make. You mix ground meat, rice, and some spices, then shape them into balls. You don't need to be a cooking expert to get this right. Plus, the rice cooks while the meatballs are cooking, so it's a simple one-pot dish. It saves you time and lessens the amount of dishes you have to clean afterwards.
Second, this dish is super versatile. You can use any ground meat like beef, turkey, or chicken. And for the sauce, you have lots of options too. Some people like a classic tomato sauce, while others go for a creamy gravy. You can even make it spicy if you like. It can be tailored to fit what you and your family like best, making it a go-to recipe that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Ground Beef - This forms the base of your meatballs. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Rice - White rice helps give the "porcupine" effect. Brown rice can be used but it takes longer to cook.
Tomato Sauce - Adds flavor and forms the cooking liquid. You can swap it for marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes.
Onion - Gives flavor to the meatballs. If you don't like onion, you can use onion powder instead.
Garlic - For a little kick. You can use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn't available.
Tips
- Make sure your hands are wet when forming meatballs; this prevents sticking.
- Don't pack the meatballs too tightly; they should be firm but not hard.
- Use a slow cooker if you have one. It makes the meatballs super tender.
- For extra flavor, you can add a small cube of cheese in the middle of each meatball.
- Freezing the meatballs? Cook them first, then freeze. It saves time later.
How to Serve
Porcupine meatballs are a versatile dish. They're great as is, but they also pair well with various side dishes. Serve them over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the tasty sauce.
- Over Mashed Potatoes - The tomato sauce acts as a gravy for the potatoes.
- In a Sub Sandwich - Just place a few meatballs in a bun, add some cheese, and broil until melty.
- As an Appetizer - Stick toothpicks in them and serve with a small bowl of the tomato sauce for dipping.
Similar Recipes
Porcupine Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup uncooked white rice
- 1 can 15 ounce tomato sauce
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, rice, half of the chopped onion, and a clove of minced garlic. Add salt and pepper.
- Form mixture into small meatballs.
- In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, the rest of the onion and garlic.
- Place meatballs in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce mixture over meatballs.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Make sure your hands are wet when forming meatballs; this prevents sticking.
- Don't pack the meatballs too tightly; they should be firm but not hard.
- Use a slow cooker if you have one. It makes the meatballs super tender.
- For extra flavor, you can add a small cube of cheese in the middle of each meatball.
- Freezing the meatballs? Cook them first, then freeze. It saves time later.