Mom'S Minute Rice Meatballs
Mom's Minute Rice Meatballs are tender, flavorful meatballs made with quick-cooking rice and savory tomato juice, perfect for a comforting family meal in just minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine rice with ground beef, egg, grated onion, salt, marjoram, pepper, and 1/2 cup tomato juice.
- Mix lightly until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into 18 meatballs and place them in a skillet.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to the remaining 2 cups of tomato juice.
- Pour the tomato juice mixture over the meatballs in the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using cooked rice instead of Minute rice for a firmer texture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you want a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over cooked pasta or rice for a hearty meal. A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad pairs wonderfully for a complete dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving them as an appetizer with toothpicks, similar to how you would with Pigs In A Blanket(Quick Method). They also go well with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of tomato juice to keep them moist. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Minute Rice Meatballs contains roughly 649 calories, with 20g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 710mg per serving (31% 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 make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked meatballs and cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice on hand, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce thinned with a bit of water. For a unique twist, try using vegetable broth mixed with tomato paste for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Alternatively, cut one meatball in half; it should be no longer pink inside and 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).