Ultra Simple Porcupine Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Bring comfort food to your table with these Ultra Simple Porcupine Meatballs in Tomato Sauce—a timeless recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These tender, flavor-packed meatballs combine ground beef, uncooked white rice, and a medley of simple seasonings, creating their signature "porcupine" texture as the rice cooks to perfection. Simmered in a rich and tangy tomato sauce, this one-pan dish is ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the savory sauce. Quick, satisfying, and made with pantry staples, this recipe is destined to become a household favorite.
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Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 0.5 cup uncooked white rice
- 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 15 oz canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 tbsp optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked white rice, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined.
Step 2
Shape the meat mixture into approximately 12-14 medium-sized meatballs and set aside on a plate.
Step 3
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, mix the canned tomato sauce and water. Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the meatballs in the skillet.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally and ensure the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 6
Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Step 7
Serve the porcupine meatballs warm with your favorite side, such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1379.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1774.8 |
| Total Fat 103.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 36.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g | |
| Cholesterol 500.5mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4038.6mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 122.1g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 10.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 20.9g | |
| Protein 87.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 53.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 212.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 12.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2828.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories