These Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, they make a delightful main dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a comforting meal at home, these meatballs are versatile enough for any occasion. Plus, they freeze well, so you can always have a quick meal on hand!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: These meatballs come together in just 25 minutes of prep time, making them a great choice for busy cooks.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of beef, rice, and savory seasonings results in a delicious dish that will please even the pickiest eaters.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze the extras for future meals that are ready in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use common pantry staples to whip up this dish—perfect for those last-minute dinner plans.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love these meatballs! Their fun shape and tasty sauce make them a hit with the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve directly from the oven.
Ingredients
These porcupine meatballs use everyday ingredients, come together fast, freeze well, and are great for making ahead!
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 egg
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pepper (to taste)
For the Sauce
- 2 (14 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (packed) brown sugar
How to Make Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350F and move the rack to the middle position. This step ensures even cooking throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large prep bowl, combine all meatball ingredients:
1. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef.
2. Stir in 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice.
3. Crack in 1 egg.
4. Mix in 1/2 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Form Meatballs
Shape the mixture into approximately 20 meatballs that are about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them into your greased 9×13 baking dish as you go.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine sauce ingredients:
– Pour in two cans of tomato sauce.
– Add 1 cup of chicken broth.
– Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs evenly.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 60 minutes. Check if rice is fully cooked; if not, return to oven until done.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs!
How to Serve Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
Easy baked porcupine meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these meatballs can shine on your table with the right accompaniments.
With Pasta
- Serve the meatballs over cooked spaghetti or fettuccine for a comforting Italian meal.
On a Sub Roll
- Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with cheese, and broil for a delicious meatball sub.
As an Appetizer
- Skewer small meatballs with toothpicks and serve with marinara sauce for dipping at parties.
In a Salad
- Slice the meatballs and toss them into a fresh garden salad for added protein and flavor.
With Rice Pilaf
- Pair the meatballs with a side of rice pilaf to complement the dish with additional textures and flavors.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Serve the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal that satisfies any comfort food craving.
How to Perfect Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
To achieve perfectly baked porcupine meatballs, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.
Use lean ground beef: This keeps the meatballs moist without excess fat.
Mix ingredients gently: Over-mixing can make the meat tough; combine until just incorporated.
Adjust seasoning: Feel free to add more spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Ensure tight coverage: Covering your baking dish tightly helps retain moisture, ensuring the rice cooks properly.
Check doneness: If the rice isn’t soft after baking, simply return it to the oven until it’s fully cooked.
Let rest before serving: Allowing the meatballs to rest for a few minutes helps them hold their shape when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
Complementing easy baked porcupine meatballs with sides enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options that work well:
Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up sauce from the meatballs.
Steamed Broccoli: Fresh steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the rich flavors of the dish.
Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing creates a refreshing contrast to hearty meatballs.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast them for a flavorful side full of nutrients.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that pairs nicely with savory meatballs.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber, making it an excellent health-conscious option alongside this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced cooks can make mistakes when preparing Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Mixing Step: Not mixing the meatball ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavors. Make sure to combine all ingredients well for consistent taste.
- Neglecting Rice Cooking Time: If you don’t cover the dish tightly while baking, the rice may remain undercooked. Ensure your foil or lid is secure to trap steam.
- Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Packing too many meatballs in one dish can cause uneven cooking. Use two baking dishes if needed for even heat distribution.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting your sauce and adjusting seasonings is important. Don’t hesitate to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
- Not Letting Meatballs Rest: Cutting into meatballs right after baking can lead to dry textures. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving for juicier results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
- Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Add meatballs and some sauce to a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs that may help you.
Can I use different types of meat for Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if you prefer a leaner option.
What can I serve with Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (70°C). You can also check if they’re no longer pink inside.
Can I make Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freeze them for later cooking.
Final Thoughts
Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs are a comforting and versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights. They freeze well and allow for various customization options—add different herbs, spices, or even cheese! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs
Easy Baked Porcupine Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, these meatballs feature a delightful blend of lean ground beef, rice, and savory spices. With minimal prep time and the convenience of being freezer-friendly, you can easily whip up a batch to enjoy later. Serve them over pasta, in a sub roll, or alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try this easy recipe today, and make it a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 egg
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 (14 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (packed) brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, rice, egg, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into approximately 20 meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the tomato sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes or until cooked through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 meatballs (approx. 170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
