Beef Rice Balls
Juicy beef rice balls baked in a savory mushroom gravy, perfect for hearty family dinners or comfort food lovers seeking a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, uncooked rice, cracker crumbs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Mix mushroom soup and water together and pour over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use cooked rice instead of uncooked for a softer texture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, stale bread or panko can work as a substitute. For a twist, incorporate herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning. Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve beef rice balls with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair well with mashed potatoes or rice, and a drizzle of the mushroom soup sauce enhances their flavor. For a hearty option, try serving alongside *Chili Beef And Biscuits* for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef rice balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. They can also be microwaved for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Rice Balls contains roughly 660 calories, with 24g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2382mg per serving (104% 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 rice balls?
Yes, you can freeze the beef rice balls before or after baking. To freeze before baking, form the meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. Alternatively, a mix of broth and sour cream can create a similar creamy consistency and flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F for beef. Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and the rice should be tender when cooked through.
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).