Beef Porcupine
Beef Porcupine features seasoned ground beef and rice mixture formed into meatballs, simmered in savory gravy—comforting, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the beef Rice-A-Roni with the ground beef and beaten egg in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into approximately 20 small meatballs.
- In a skillet, brown the meatballs on all sides.
- Mix the contents of the beef seasonings packet with 2½ cups hot water.
- Pour the seasoned water over the browned meatballs.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Thicken the gravy if desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful beef porcupine, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef. Additionally, using brown rice instead of the Rice-A-Roni may enhance the dish’s nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve beef porcupine with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh green salad pairs nicely, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory meatballs. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside recipes like Dried Beef Noodle Casserole or Best Beans In The West.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef porcupine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and gravy in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave in a covered dish for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Porcupine contains roughly 551 calories, with 12g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% 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 meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, shape the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, but may require additional cooking time.
What can I use instead of Rice-A-Roni?
If you don't have Rice-A-Roni, you can use plain cooked rice mixed with some beef broth and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, quinoa or couscous can be good substitutes, giving the dish a different texture and taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. Simmering them in the gravy for 30 minutes also helps ensure they are fully cooked.
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).