Porcupine meatballs are a nostalgic comfort food classic that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Ground beef is mixed with uncooked rice and spices, then formed into small balls. As they bake in a rich tomato and Worcestershire sauce, the rice absorbs the liquid and expands, creating a texture reminiscent of risotto inside the meatball. The name comes from the way the tiny grains of rice poke out of the meat, resembling a porcupine’s quills. This dish is incredibly satisfying, offering a perfect balance of savory meat, aromatic herbs, and tender rice. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or simple steamed vegetables. The sauce reduces into a delicious glaze, making every bite moist and flavorful.
Porcupines
Description
Porcupine meatballs are a nostalgic comfort food classic that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Ground beef is mixed with uncooked rice and spices, then formed into small balls. As they bake in a rich tomato and Worcestershire sauce, the rice absorbs the liquid and expands, creating a texture reminiscent of risotto inside the meatball. The name comes from the way the tiny grains of rice poke out of the meat, resembling a porcupine's quills. This dish is incredibly satisfying, offering a perfect balance of savory meat, aromatic herbs, and tender rice. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal weeknight dinner that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or simple steamed vegetables. The sauce reduces into a delicious glaze, making every bite moist and flavorful.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177ðC).
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, 1/2 cup water, chopped onion, salt, celery salt, garlic powder, and pepper.
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Mix thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls.
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Place meatballs in an ungreased 8x8-inch baking dish.
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In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, 1 cup water, and Worcestershire sauce.
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Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs.
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Cover the dish tightly with foil.
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Bake for 45 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until sauce is thickened and meatballs are cooked through.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 394.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18.9g30%
- Saturated Fat 7.2g36%
- Cholesterol 88.5mg30%
- Sodium 6929.2mg289%
- Total Carbohydrate 20.6g7%
- Dietary Fiber 5.7g23%
- Sugars 13.2g
- Protein 34.5g69%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
You can also brown the meatballs in a skillet with a tablespoon of oil before baking for a deeper flavor, but the oven method is simpler and keeps the meatballs moist.
Ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the meat mixture so each meatball cooks consistently.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist.
