Porcupine Meat Balls(Club Member: Jason Harvey)
Porcupine Meat Balls are savory, hearty meatballs with rice inside, baked in a tangy catsup sauce. Perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, beaten eggs, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Place the meatballs in a baking dish.
- Mix catsup and water together and pour over the meatballs.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meat mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a different texture, try using cooked quinoa instead of rice. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the meatballs; they should reach 160°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve porcupine meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a complete dinner, consider serving with garlic bread or a side of your favorite pasta dish, like Stew Stroganoff.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover porcupine meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupine Meat Balls(Club Member: Jason Harvey) contains roughly 384 calories, with 15g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1527mg per serving (66% 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. Make sure to adjust the water and baking time accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.
What can I use if I don't have catsup?
If you don't have catsup, you can use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes mixed with a little sugar and vinegar for sweetness and acidity. Barbecue sauce can also be a tasty alternative for a different flavor profile.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can freeze them after shaping and then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).