Beef Porcupine Balls
Beef porcupine balls are savory meatballs cooked in a flavorful gravy, perfect for hearty family dinners or comfort food lovers seeking a nostalgic, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix rice and ground beef together in a bowl.
- Add beaten egg to the mixture and combine well.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet until cooked on all sides.
- In a separate pan, combine the beef seasoning packet from the rice mix with 2 1/2 cups hot water.
- Pour the seasoned hot water over the browned meatballs.
- Cover the pan and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Thicken the gravy as desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can substitute for ground beef. You can also use brown rice instead of the rice mix for a more nutritious dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed if you switch to a different grain. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Porcupine Balls are delicious served over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful gravy. Pair with steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, serve alongside the Hearty Beef 'N Cheese Crescent Pie, which complements the hearty flavors of this dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, covering to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Porcupine Balls contains roughly 654 calories, with 19g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Beef Porcupine Balls?
Yes, you can freeze Beef Porcupine Balls! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
What can I use instead of beef flavor rice mix?
If you don't have beef flavor rice mix, you can use plain rice and add beef broth or stock for flavor. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, try using a flavored rice pilaf or even quinoa for a different texture and taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure meatballs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don't have one, cut one meatball in half; it should be no longer pink inside, and the juices should run clear.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).