Craving a taste of nostalgia? Old fashioned porcupine meatballs are the perfect comfort food that combines simplicity, heartiness, and rich flavor. These tender ground beef and rice meatballs, simmered in a cozy tomato sauce, will transport you straight back to your grandma’s kitchen. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, this recipe is sure to win you over.

Made with pantry-friendly ingredients, porcupine meatballs offer a budget-friendly way to serve up a hearty meal. Plus, they’re versatile and easy to tweak for a personal touch. Read on to learn how to create this timeless dish, complete with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this classic dish to life. Each ingredient was carefully chosen for flavor and authenticity.

• 1 lb ground beef (use lean beef, or swap with ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (substitute with brown rice for added fiber)
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (yellow onion is ideal, but red or shallots work too)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove minced fresh garlic for a stronger flavor)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (a kitchen staple for the delicious base sauce)
• 1/2 cup water (enhances the sauce consistency)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (adds richness to the sauce)

Optional Additions:

• A pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Substitute tomato sauce with marinara for a tangier flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making porcupine meatballs is as easy as 1-2-3 (or 1 to 4 in this case!). Follow these simple steps for a no-fail dish:

1. Create the Meatball Mix

Combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, onion, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix until evenly combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into round meatballs around 1.5 inches in diameter.

2. Prepare the Sauce

Heat a skillet over medium-low. Combine tomato sauce, water, and Worcestershire sauce in the skillet, stirring to mix thoroughly.

3. Cook the Meatballs

Place the formed meatballs gently into the skillet, ensuring they’re submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the meatballs to simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve these juicy meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or even buttered egg noodles. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Health Benefits of Porcupine Meatballs

This classic dish doesn’t just taste great; it offers a host of nutritional benefits:

• Protein-packed: Ground beef is an excellent source of protein to keep you full and energized.
• Complex carbs: Rice adds a dose of sustained energy to your meal.
• Lycopene boost: Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for supporting heart health.

Serving Suggestions

Porcupine meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Sides:
• • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
  • A simple garden salad with vinaigrette
• Drinks:
• • A light red wine like Pinot Noir
  • Iced tea with lemon for a refreshing sip
• Extras:
• • A rustic loaf of bread to soak up extra sauce

Recipe Variations

Keep the classic charm but add your unique flair! Try these creative variations:

• Spicy Kick – Add a tablespoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Cheesy Delight – Stuff the meatballs with a cube of mozzarella for a gooey surprise.
• Veggie Boost – Mix finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots into the meatball mixture.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of rice for those avoiding gluten.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Meatballs

• Don’t overwork the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatballs dense and tough. A gentle hand goes a long way.
• Use a scoop: Use an ice cream scoop to ensure evenly sized meatballs for even cooking.
• Simmer slowly: Low heat ensures the meatballs cook through without falling apart.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Porcupine meatballs are perfect for make-ahead meals. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerator:
• • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce to maintain moisture.
• Freezer:
• • Freeze cooked meatballs in their sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the sauce check – Make sure the sauce doesn’t reduce too much during simmering. Add a little water if necessary.
• Overcooking – Cooking for too long can dry out the meatballs, so keep an eye on them.
• Using the wrong meat ratio – If using fattier ground beef, the meatballs may fall apart. Lean options work best for this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant rice instead of uncooked rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time since instant rice cooks much faster. You may need to reduce the simmering time.

Can I bake porcupine meatballs instead of simmering?

Absolutely! Arrange the meatballs in a baking dish, cover with the sauce, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes.

Why are they called porcupine meatballs?

The uncooked rice in the mixture expands during cooking, resembling porcupine quills when it pokes through the meatballs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet to cook the meatballs in a single layer.

Bring Old Fashioned Comfort to Your Dinner Table

Old fashioned porcupine meatballs embody the magic of turning simple, everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you serve them for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to be a hit.