Porky Pines
Porky Pines are hearty, flavorful meatballs made with pork, beef, rice, and spices, baked in tomato soup and water for a comforting, family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, uncooked rice, egg, salt, pepper, and torn dry bread in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into oblong balls and place them in a baking pan.
- Pour water and tomato soup over the meatballs.
- Bake covered for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown.
- Serve with a green salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like parsley and oregano to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use cooked quinoa instead of rice for added nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to experiment with various proteins and grains.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are delicious served with a simple green salad for a light meal. For a heartier option, pair them with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. They also pair beautifully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the tomato soup sauce. Consider offering a tangy coleslaw on the side for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish with a splash of water or additional tomato soup, cover, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porky Pines contains roughly 992 calories, with 13g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2532mg per serving (110% 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 freeze the Porky Pines meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after baking. If freezing before baking, shape them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen; just add extra cooking time.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Mixing in a bit of vegetable broth can help achieve a similar consistency. For a creamier option, consider using a creamy tomato soup variant.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. Form the meatballs and bake them when you're ready to serve. This makes for a convenient and quick meal on busy days.
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).