Beef Porcupines In Tomato Gravy
Beef Porcupines in Tomato Gravy are savory meatballs coated with rice and bread crumbs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce—perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, rice, bread crumbs, salt, parsley, and water in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a square or pack evenly in an 8-inch pan.
- Cut 3 lines on one side and 4 lines on the other side to make 20 equal sections.
- Shape each section into a meatball.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the meatballs in hot oil, turning frequently, until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding grated cheese to the meat mixture or mixing in some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor. If you don't have long grain rice, you can substitute it with instant rice or quinoa. Using a higher fat content ground beef will yield juicier meatballs, though lean ground beef is a healthier choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these beef porcupines with a side of mashed potatoes or over egg noodles to soak up the delicious tomato gravy. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make a great accompaniment, balancing the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with 'Mom's Famous Chili (Fast And Easy)' for some added variety.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over low heat and cover, allowing them to warm through without drying out. Alternatively, microwave them in short intervals, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Porcupines In Tomato Gravy contains roughly 920 calories, with 27g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1303mg per serving (57% 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 the beef porcupines?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef porcupines. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in a skillet or microwave.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so you may want to adjust seasonings to enhance the taste.
What can I serve with these beef porcupines?
These beef porcupines pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple side salad. You could also serve them with crusty bread to soak up the tomato gravy.
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).