Are you in search of a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home? Look no further than our mouthwatering Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup recipe! These tender meatballs, infused with savory flavors and nestled in a rich tomato soup sauce, are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Join us as we explore the art of crafting this classic comfort food dish, complete with easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and delicious variations.
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 Tomato Soup 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:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Minute rice, egg, diced yellow onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Soup Sauce
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed tomato soup, water, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the tomato soup mixture to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Carefully place the meatballs into the simmering tomato soup sauce, ensuring they are evenly spaced and submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid and cook the meatballs for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Stir the meatballs occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once the meatballs are cooked through, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add additional herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika for extra flavor.
- Make It Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the Minute rice with cooked quinoa or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
- Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content of the dish by adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the meatball mixture. Simply sauté the vegetables until tender before mixing them with the ground beef.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just be aware that ground turkey may result in slightly different flavor and texture.
Q: Can I freeze leftover meatballs? A: Absolutely! Porcupine meatballs freeze well and make for a convenient meal prep option. Allow the meatballs to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in a skillet or microwave.
Q: Can I use homemade tomato soup instead of condensed soup? A: Yes, you can use homemade tomato soup if you prefer. Simply substitute an equal amount of homemade tomato soup for the condensed soup called for in the recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can substitute the Minute rice with cauliflower rice or almond flour. Additionally, use a low-carb tomato soup or make your own using fresh tomatoes and keto-friendly ingredients.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of rice or omit it altogether to lower the carb content of the meatballs. You can also use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum instead of flour in the tomato soup sauce.
In conclusion, our Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender meatballs, flavorful tomato soup sauce, and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, these meatballs are sure to please. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and hearty meal that will warm both your body and soul.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get cooking! We hope you enjoy making and savoring these delectable Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup as much as we do.
If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you!
