Porcupine Meat Balls And Veggies
Porcupine Meat Balls and Veggies is a comforting baked dish featuring seasoned meatballs, tender vegetables, and savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, egg, salt, rice, and half of the onion soup mix; mix well and form into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Mix the tomato soup and water together.
- Pour the soup mixture into an oven bag.
- Add vegetables and meatballs into the oven bag with the remaining soup mix.
- Seal the oven bag and bake in a 350°F oven for 45 to 60 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped garlic or using seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain. If you prefer, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust the vegetable mix to include your favorites, such as bell peppers or zucchini. To save time, precook the rice slightly before mixing it in to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the porcupine meatballs over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting meal. Pair with a side salad or steamed green beans for a well-rounded dinner. These meatballs also go well with a slice of fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a dish like Hamburger And Cheese Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and veggies in a covered dish in the microwave, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupine Meat Balls And Veggies contains roughly 2529 calories, with 66g protein, 445g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (217% of the Daily Value), and protein (132% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 porcupine meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape the meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. If cooked, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup on hand, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of sugar and Italian seasoning to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, try using a homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste. Consider adding some Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the center of a meatball. Additionally, the meatballs should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear when pierced. If you're unsure, bake them a little longer until done.
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).