Description
Classic Porcupine Meatballs are tender ground beef meatballs mixed with uncooked rice, then simmered slowly in a savory tomato sauce. As the rice cooks, it pokes out of the meatballs like tiny quills, giving this comforting dish its quirky name. It’s easy, satisfying, and made with pantry staples—a cozy weeknight favorite with old-school charm.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 12 evenly sized meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently until all sides are golden (optional but recommended).
4. In the same skillet or a separate pot, whisk together tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return the browned meatballs to the sauce. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the rice has expanded and meatballs are fully cooked through, remove from heat.
7. Garnish with additional parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
This dish freezes exceptionally well—just cool completely and freeze with sauce.
Avoid using instant or parboiled rice; they cook too quickly and ruin the texture.
For a deeper flavor, don’t skip the browning step before simmering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: porcupine meatballs, ground beef, comfort food