Description
Porcupine meatballs are a classic comfort food dish made with ground meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The rice cooks inside the meatballs, creating a tender texture and a “porcupine” appearance. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef (or pork/beef mix)
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about the size of a golf ball). Set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a large skillet or pot, combine the crushed tomatoes, stock, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Carefully place the meatballs into the simmering sauce in a single layer. Spoon some sauce over the top to coat them.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked. Gently stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the meatballs with the sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.
- These meatballs freeze well—store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.