Porcupine Meatballs(Crock-Pot)
Creamy and savory porcupine meatballs cooked in tomato soup, featuring seasoned beef and rice, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, rice, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in the crock-pot.
- Pour the tomato soup over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant flavor. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adding garlic and herbs like oregano or basil can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. This recipe is also great for adapting to a vegetable version by using a mix of 'Vegetable Meatballs'.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Porcupine Meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside 'Chilighetti' for a hearty combination. Garnishing with fresh parsley or grated parmesan cheese can also add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupine Meatballs(Crock-Pot) contains roughly 846 calories, with 15g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2452mg per serving (107% 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 for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use brown rice; however, it requires a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the cooking time in the Crock-Pot to ensure the rice is fully cooked. Generally, brown rice may need an additional hour of cooking on low.
What can I serve with Porcupine Meatballs?
These meatballs go well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can also serve them with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes to balance the meal.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly until you're ready to cook. This makes meal prep easier and allows the flavors to meld before cooking.
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).