Porcupines(Method: Skillet)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Hearty skillet porcupines combine ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce into comforting meatballs, perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings with a savory, slightly tangy kick.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. hamburger
  • 1 small onion
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1 c. water
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 c. uncooked instant rice
  • 1/2 c. water
  • 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Finely chop the onion.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use a lean ground beef for this dish to prevent excess grease. If you don't have instant rice, you can substitute with regular rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give a nice kick. Also, consider mixing in some finely chopped bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Porcupines with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Bacon Delight Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Porcupines can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. They can also be microwaved in a covered dish, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Porcupines(Method: Skillet) contains roughly 262 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1705mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).

262 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.5g 15% DV
Total Fat 8.9g 11% DV
Carbs 39.3g 14% DV
Fiber 4g 14% DV
Sugar 4.7g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1704.9mg 74% DV
Potassium 397.3mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 6.4mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.3mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 64.6mg 72% DV
Calcium 59.3mg 5% DV
Iron 2.4mg 13% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to hamburger in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey may yield a slightly different flavor and texture, so you might want to add extra seasoning to enhance the taste.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils. You may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through properly while maintaining the dish's integrity.

What can I serve with Porcupines?

Porcupines are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. For a comforting meal, serve with mashed potatoes or over rice. You can also serve them with sides like cornbread or steamed broccoli for a complete dinner experience.

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).

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