Porcupine Meatballs

Luckily, porcupine meatballs do not contain any actual porcupines. That would be spiky. What they do contain is a generous helping of flavor and fun. They’re a tasty and hearty meatball where rice acts as the binder. As the meatballs simmer away in tomato sauce, the rice puffs up as it cooks, creating little “quills” that stick out of the meatballs. The rice keeps the meatball moist and tender, but also adds a pretty adorable twist to this meal.

These meatballs may not be anything new, but that might be why we love them so much. They’re a nostalgic dish that we remember from our childhood and we still get a kick out of removing the lid and seeing those little rice spikes poking every which way. It also doesn’t hurt that they taste amazing. (Around here they get gobbled down instantly. Mostly by yours truly.) Really, it’s a dish for kids of all ages.

Our version is a little different from the original Hunts ad, mainly in that we’ve bumped up the seasoning a bit and skipped the browning. We’ve found that leaving out that step saves a little time but doesn’t affect the overall outcome. In any case, these are easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Porcupine Meatballs offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The rice not only adds a whimsical touch but also makes the meatballs incredibly tender and juicy. They’re a comforting, nostalgic meal that’s perfect for family dinners.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Large skillet with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, beaten egg, 1/4 cup of the tomato sauce, onion, basil, thyme, rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Mix well.
2. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. You should have about 20 meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs into a large skillet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this sauce over the meatballs in the skillet.
5. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Gently turn the meatballs over and continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Serve the meatballs as they are, or over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for even cooking.
• Be gentle when turning the meatballs to avoid breaking them apart.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can add a kick by including some red pepper flakes in the mix. For a different flavor profile, try using ground turkey instead of beef. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your preferences.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Porcupine Meatballs is packed with protein and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. Cook them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the meatballs? Absolutely! Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw and reheat in the sauce when you want to serve them.

What other sides go well with Porcupine Meatballs? These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Porcupine Meatballs are a nostalgic, fun, and delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and let those adorable rice quills bring a smile to your face. We’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so be sure to share your experiences in the comments below!