Beef Porcupines
Beef Porcupines are savory meatballs combined with rice, seasoned and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish offers comfort and bold flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The tender meatballs and flavorful sauce make it a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Cook the meatballs in hot oil in a skillet, turning frequently until they are light brown on all sides, but not crusty.
- Add tomato sauce and water to the skillet.
- Mix well, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use short-grain rice as it tends to stick better and absorb flavors. If you're out of tomato sauce, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or even a can of diced tomatoes blended until smooth. Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences; adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor. Consider preparing a batch of these meatballs and serving them alongside Zucchini With Meatballs for a delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Porcupines are delicious served over a bed of fluffy rice or with mashed potatoes. For a balanced meal, pair them with steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. They also make a great filling for sandwiches or wraps. Consider serving alongside Easy Skillet Supper for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Beef Porcupines can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, covering until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Porcupines contains roughly 1120 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 118g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1833mg per serving (80% 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 use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cook the brown rice partially before mixing it with the beef to ensure it cooks evenly during the simmering process.
What can I do if the meatballs fall apart while cooking?
If you find your meatballs are falling apart, try adding an egg to the mixture as a binding agent. Additionally, ensure that the meatballs are not overcrowded in the skillet, which can cause them to break apart.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Beef Porcupines can be frozen for up to three months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to enjoy a quick meal later.
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).