Porcupine Meatballs(No Quills Inside This One!)
Porcupine Meatballs are savory, comforting meatballs with rice, simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, rice, beaten egg, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup tomato soup in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into about 20 to 25 meatballs and place them in a casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix remaining tomato soup, water, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs.
- Cover the casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Spoon sauce over meatballs during baking and serve over noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the meatball mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, swap out ground chuck for ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, you can use quinoa instead of rice for a more nutritious twist. To enhance the sauce, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a handful of fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
These porcupine meatballs are delicious served over egg noodles or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complements the meal perfectly. For a comforting twist, pair them with garlic bread or serve alongside a slice of the Refrigerator Strawberry Shortcake for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover porcupine meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or you can reheat them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupine Meatballs(No Quills Inside This One!) contains roughly 597 calories, with 16g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% 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 cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?
Yes, you can use cooked rice, but reduce the amount of water in the recipe to accommodate. Typically, you would use about 1/4 cup less water if using cooked rice, as it already contains moisture.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free porcupine meatballs, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free and substitute the regular rice with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice noodles. Always check the label for any hidden gluten.
Can I freeze the meatballs before or after cooking?
You can freeze the meatballs both before and after cooking. If freezing uncooked, shape them and arrange on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can also be frozen in their sauce, just ensure they cool completely before storing.
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).