Rice Meatballs
Juicy rice meatballs with tender ground beef and aromatic onion, simmered in a flavorful tomato juice sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this comforting dish combines savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a hearty and versatile choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the minute rice, ground beef, egg, grated onion, and salt in a bowl.
- Mix well and shape into 18 balls.
- Place the meatballs in a skillet.
- Pour 1/2 cup of tomato juice over the meatballs.
- Cook until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, adding more tomato juice as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meatball mixture. If you want a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use brown rice instead of minute rice for a healthier alternative. Adjust the amount of salt based on your dietary preferences, especially if you're using canned tomato juice which can be salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rice meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or alongside garlic bread for a classic meal. A fresh green salad pairs well to balance the flavors. For a comforting twist, serve them with mashed potatoes or use them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese. They also make a great addition to any American recipes potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of tomato juice, cooking until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Meatballs contains roughly 369 calories, with 11g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2252mg per serving (98% 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 rice meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatballs. If freezing uncooked, shape them and place on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in sauce. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of minute rice?
You can use regular long-grain rice, but it will require cooking beforehand. Alternatively, quinoa or couscous can be used for a different texture and flavor. Adjust the liquid in the recipe according to the cooking instructions for the substitute you choose.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture. You can also mix in some hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper. Experiment with different spices to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
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).