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Porcupine Meatballs

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Porcupine Meatballs are tender beef meatballs mixed with rice and simmered in a savory tomato sauce. A nostalgic comfort food with a playful look and hearty flavor, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

  • Ground Beef: 1 pound – The hearty base of the meatballs.
  • Uncooked Rice (parboiled or instant): ½ cup – Expands as it cooks, creating the “porcupine” look.
  • Onion (finely chopped): ½ cup – Adds sweetness and depth.
  • Garlic (minced): 2 cloves – Brings savory warmth.
  • Egg: 1 – Binds the meatball mixture.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances overall flavor.
  • Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon – Adds subtle spice.
  • Tomato Sauce: 2 cans (15 ounces each) – Forms the rich, tangy base for simmering.
  • Beef Broth: 1 cup – Adds savory depth to the sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon – Gives a bold umami boost.
  • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – For searing the meatballs before simmering.
  • Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): 2 tablespoons – Adds color and freshness at the end.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with clean hands until just combined.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them in the skillet and sear on all sides until browned.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce over the meatballs. Stir gently to coat.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
  6. Finishing Touches: Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Notes

  • Do not overwork the meat mixture, as it makes meatballs tough.
  • Use parboiled or instant rice to ensure it cooks evenly inside the meatballs.
  • Sear meatballs before simmering for richer flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyze.com/porcupine-meatballs/