Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners, you’ve come to the right place! This Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe is a true classic that’s been passed down through generations. These meatballs are not only delightful but also super easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with loved ones. The hearty flavors and warm tomato sauce make it feel like a big hug on a plate!

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve relied on this recipe when I needed something quick yet satisfying. Just one bite of these meatballs will transport you back to simpler times, and they pair beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes. Trust me; your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep and 55 minutes of cook time, this dish is ready before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! They’re fun to eat and packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare these meatballs in advance and simply reheat them when it’s time to eat.
• Deliciously Versatile: Serve them over rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that suits any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that this recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that create an irresistible flavor combination. Gather these staples from your kitchen, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying some delicious porcupine meatballs!

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup long grain rice (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tbsp dark brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp ground pepper

Variations

The beauty of porcupine meatballs is their flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Mix in grated carrots or finely chopped bell peppers to sneak in more nutrients.
• Change up the grains: Experiment with quinoa or barley instead of rice for a different texture.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little kick if you like things spicy!

How to Make Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, water, diced onion, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, worcestershire sauce, parsley, and ground pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every meatball is flavorful and has that tender texture everyone loves.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once everything is combined nicely, shape the mixture into balls about 2 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for cooking evenly while still being hearty enough for a satisfying bite.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shaped meatballs to the pan and brown them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. Browning adds depth of flavor and gives the meatballs a lovely texture!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While those delicious meatballs are browning away, whisk together the tomato sauce, water, dark brown sugar, worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground pepper in another bowl. This sweet-savory sauce will coat your meatballs perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Gently arrange them so they’re all coated nicely—this is where all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Cover your skillet and let everything simmer on low heat for about 45-50 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen while ensuring that your rice cooks through inside those tender meatballs.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done simmering, serve those delicious porcupine meatballs over rice or mashed potatoes if desired. Enjoy every mouthful with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these helpful tips, your porcupine meatballs will turn out even better!

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing lean ground beef not only helps reduce the fat content but also ensures that your meatballs hold together beautifully while still being juicy.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: After shaping the meatballs, let them rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.

• Brown the meatballs well: Ensure you brown the meatballs on all sides before adding the sauce. This step adds depth of flavor and a lovely texture that enhances the overall dish.

• Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer without a lid; for a thinner sauce, add a bit more water or tomato sauce to your liking.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil for an extra layer of flavor. Customizing the spices can make this classic recipe feel uniquely yours!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe

Porcupine meatballs are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here’s how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkle some over your meatballs just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For those who enjoy cheesy flavors, a light dusting of grated cheese adds richness and an appealing finish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green veggie is not only healthy but its slight bitterness complements the savory sweetness of the meatballs.

• Garlic bread: A crunchy side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. The garlicky aroma makes it irresistible!

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic companion that pairs wonderfully with the rich tomato sauce, creating a comforting meal.

• Mixed green salad: Lighten up your dinner with a simple salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. The crispness of fresh greens balances out the hearty meatballs perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs are sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy each bite as you savor this comforting dish together.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious meatballs later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep fresh for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the meatballs are completely cooled before sealing them to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Meatballs can be frozen for longer storage.
• Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
• You can also microwave them for 2-3 minutes, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
• If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and ensure they are heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works wonderfully. Just follow the same steps as you would with ground beef.

What can I serve with Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe?

These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even steamed vegetables. You can also serve them over pasta for an Italian twist!

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If you’re unsure, cut one open; it should be no longer pink inside and juices should run clear.

Can I make this recipe without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, you can omit Worcestershire sauce if preferred. Try adding additional herbs or a splash of soy sauce for flavor instead!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Old-Fashioned Porcupine Meatballs Recipe! It’s not just about feeding your family; it’s about creating warm memories around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience! Happy cooking!