Are you looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to please the whole family? Look no further than our mouthwatering Porcupine Meatballs recipe! These savory meatballs, simmered in a rich and tangy tomato sauce, are a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, these Porcupine Meatballs are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of homemade meatballs and discover the secrets to making this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup Minute rice
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 2 x 10.5oz cans condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Minute rice, egg, diced onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into meatballs, forming them into approximately 1-inch diameter balls.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the condensed tomato soup, water, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer the Meatballs:
- Once the meatballs are browned, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the tomato sauce.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve alongside your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Alternative Meat Options: If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or ground pork for the ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different types of meat may cook at different rates.
- Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free Minute rice or substitute with cooked quinoa or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for later use. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Q: Can I use homemade tomato sauce instead of condensed tomato soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade tomato sauce in place of the condensed tomato soup. Just adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
Q: Are these meatballs suitable for a keto diet? A: While this recipe contains rice, which is not typically included in a keto diet, you can make a keto-friendly version by omitting the rice and increasing the amount of ground beef or adding almond flour as a binder instead.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: For a keto-friendly version of these meatballs, omit the Minute rice and replace it with almond flour or grated Parmesan cheese as a binder. Serve the meatballs with a low-carb tomato sauce or marinara sauce.
- Low-Carb Variation: To reduce the carb content of this recipe, you can substitute the Minute rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Additionally, use a low-carb tomato sauce or make your own by blending fresh tomatoes with herbs and spices.
In conclusion, our Porcupine Meatballs recipe is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy and flavorful meatballs, simmered in a rich and savory tomato sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, these meatballs are guaranteed to please. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to impress!
Indulge in the savory goodness of our Porcupine Meatballs today! For more culinary inspiration and mouthwatering recipes, be sure to explore our website. If you have any questions or feedback, we’d love to hear from you. Happy cooking!
Discover the savory delight of our Porcupine Meatballs recipe! Visit our website for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration. Have questions or feedback? Reach out to us – we’d love to hear from you. Happy cooking!
