Porcupine Meatballs(Oven Meatballs)
Porcupine Meatballs are hearty oven-baked meatballs with rice, seasoned with herbs and served in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F.
- Combine ground beef, rice, salt, pepper, Italian herb seasoning, and chopped onion in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix the tomato soup with water and pour over the meatballs.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture or substituting the rice with quinoa for a healthier option. If you have leftover cooked rice, you can use that instead of uncooked. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly. Keep an eye on the meatballs while baking to prevent them from overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Porcupine Meatballs are best served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness. For a comforting meal, pair them with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. They also go well with bread rolls for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce. Consider serving with Quick And Easy Green Beans With Hamburger for a complete meal.
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, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven until hot, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupine Meatballs(Oven Meatballs) contains roughly 87 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% 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 a different type of meat for these meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness to ensure they're fully cooked.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Porcupine Meatballs, simply replace the regular rice with a gluten-free variety, such as brown rice or cauliflower rice, and ensure your tomato soup is gluten-free as well. This will keep the dish flavorful without compromising your dietary needs.
Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Shape them and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
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).