Oven Porcupines
Oven Porcupines are a comforting dish featuring meatballs made with ground meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The combination of garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings creates a savory flavor profile that families will love. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck, these hearty meatballs are sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Mix ground meat, uncooked rice, 1/3 cup water, chopped onions, salt, garlic salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into round balls.
- Place the balls in an ungreased 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Stir together the remaining ingredients and pour over the meatballs.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano or parsley to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, use instant rice instead of uncooked rice, but reduce the water slightly. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Experiment with adding grated cheese to the center of the meatballs for a delightful surprise. This dish is a classic in American recipes, perfect for family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Oven Porcupines with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh salad, like Sunshine Salad, complements the dish well, adding a refreshing contrast. For a comforting twist, pair with crusty bread or Oatmeal Bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or as a hearty weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Oven Porcupines in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or sauce, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Porcupines contains roughly 125 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1944mg per serving (85% 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 Oven Porcupines ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with added seasoning. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can give a unique twist to the flavor profile, making for a delicious variation.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute the ground meat with a mix of cooked lentils, beans, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of water and ensure that your rice is vegan-friendly for a satisfying meatless meal.
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).