Homemade Porcupine Meatballs: A Comforting Classic Family Dinner

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Imagine a dish that instantly transports you back to childhood – warm, hearty, and packed with nostalgic flavor. These porcupine meatballs are more than just a meal; they’re a culinary hug that brings families together around the dinner table. With tender beef, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, tangy sauce, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a memorable comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (454g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 120g (½ cup) uncooked white rice
  • 60ml (¼ cup) ketchup
  • 50g (1/3 cup) onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1g (¼ tsp) celery salt
  • 5g (1 tsp) salt
  • 1g (¼ tsp) black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

Sauce:

  • 1 can (305g/10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 240ml (1 cup) water

Optional Topping:

  • 170g (1½ cups) shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, rice, ketchup, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, celery salt, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  2. Gently mix the ingredients until well combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make the meatballs tough.
  3. Using your hands, roll the mixture into uniform meatballs approximately 1½ inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 20 meatballs.
  4. Arrange the meatballs in a large skillet or baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce, and water until smooth.
  6. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure they are well-coated.
  7. Cover the skillet or baking dish and simmer on the stovetop for 40-45 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes, removing the cover halfway through to allow slight browning.
  8. Once cooked, optionally top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley before serving hot.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-60 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6
  • Total Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Nutrition Highlights

  • High in protein
  • Good source of iron
  • Moderate carbohydrate content

Pro Tip: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.