Porcupine Meatballs: A Heartwarming Family Favorite

Hello, my dear readers! Today, I’m beyond thrilled to share a recipe that’s close to my heart and a perennial hit in my family: Porcupine Meatballs. These aren’t your ordinary meatballs, oh no! Each bite is a delightful surprise, filled with tender rice that sticks out just a bit—reminiscent of a porcupine’s quills—hence the name!

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to pass on this gem of a dish. It’s one that’s been a comfort at many family gatherings, bringing smiles and warmth to the table. So, let’s dive into what makes these meatballs a must-try!

Ingredients

To get started on these savory treats, you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean works great)
• 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/3 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

How to Make Porcupine Meatballs

Making these meatballs is as fun as eating them! Here’s how:

1. Prep your ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, rice, water, onion, salt, garlic powder, pepper, egg, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Form the meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the dish.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the rice is tender.

Helpful Tips

• Check the rice: Make sure the rice is completely cooked through by tasting a meatball before serving. If the rice is still a bit crunchy, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Keep them moist: Covering the meatballs while baking helps keep them moist and ensures the rice cooks perfectly.

Substitutions/Variations

• Gluten-free option: Use tamari or a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce instead of regular Worcestershire sauce.
• Spicy kick: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne to the meat mixture or sauce for a bit of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce, store them separately in the fridge, and bake when ready to eat.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A: Yes, but increase the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover porcupine meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved these porcupine meatballs, you might also enjoy diving into these delicious treats from our blog:

• Banana Pudding Cheesecake Salad: This unique blend of banana pudding and cheesecake whipped into a delightful salad is perfect for dessert or a special side dish at any gathering.
• Pickled Eggs with Apple Cider Vinegar: If you’re in the mood for a tangy and flavorful snack, these pickled eggs are a must-try. They’re easy to make and great for picnics.

Porcupine Meatballs are more than just a meal; they’re a delightful experience that brings everyone at the table a little closer. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, they’re sure to leave everyone smiling and satisfied. Dive in and let the good times roll—one delicious meatball at a time!

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