Name: Porcupine Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 1/2 cup long grain white rice, uncooked; 1 lb. lean ground beef; 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 15oz. can tomato sauce; 1 15oz. can crushed tomatoes, with juices; 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 Tbsp sugar; 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 cup water; 2 Tbsp chopped parsley (to garnish)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting and nostalgic dish that’s packed with flavor and hearty goodness, this delightful Porcupine Meatballs Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender meatballs, studded with bits of rice that puff up like tiny porcupine needles as they cook, swim in a rich, tangy tomato sauce that perfectly balances savory and sweet. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable dish that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl contains five separate layers of ingredients before mixing. In the center is a large portion of light pink ground meat. On the top left side is a pile of white breadcrumbs. To the bottom left is a heap of finely chopped white onions. In the top middle right, two small portions of light yellow minced garlic sit next to a heap of mixed black and white pepper and salt on the far right. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s fantastic about this Porcupine Meatballs Recipe is how approachable and essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role: from the aromatic Italian seasoning adding layers of flavor, to the rice providing that signature texture, and the combination of tomato sauces creating a luscious base. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this dish to life!

2 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbaceous punch that forms the backbone of the flavor.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Deepens the savory profile without overpowering the other spices.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives a subtle, warm garlic aroma that’s essential for any hearty dish.
1 1/2 tsp salt: Balances and enhances the flavors throughout the meatballs and sauce.
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Provides a gentle spice that awakens the palate.
1/2 cup long grain white rice, uncooked: The star ingredient that swells inside the meatballs, adding delightful texture.
1 lb. lean ground beef: The protein foundation creating tender, juicy meatballs.
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and crunch to the meatball mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses fresh garlic flavor, enhancing every bite.
1 large egg: Binds all the ingredients together, ensuring the meatballs hold shape.
2 Tbsp chopped parsley (to garnish): Brightens the dish with a pop of green and fresh flavor.
1 15oz. can tomato sauce: Forms a smooth, rich base for the savory sauce.
1 15oz. can crushed tomatoes, with juices: Adds body and a hint of sweet acidity to the sauce.
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Contributes a deep umami richness that enhances the sauce complexity.
1 Tbsp sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a smoother taste.
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Extra seasoning to keep the sauce lively.
1/4 tsp garlic powder: Reinforces the garlic notes, linking the sauce and meatballs seamlessly.
1/2 cup water: Helps the sauce simmer gently while keeping the meatballs moist.

How to Make Porcupine Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Seasoning Mix

Begin by combining the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This aromatic blend is the secret to the Porcupine Meatballs Recipe’s mouthwatering flavor punch, ensuring every bite is savory with just the right balance of herbs and spices.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Rinse the rice well under cool water to remove excess starch and drain thoroughly. In a large bowl, add the lean ground beef, rice, finely diced onion, minced garlic, the seasoning mixture, and the egg. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly mix everything together, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep your meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Divide the mixture into 24 equal portions, each about two tablespoons in size. Roll each portion into a smooth ball shape and place them snugly but without overcrowding in a large pot or Dutch oven. Feel free to stack them a bit if your pot requires it—the meatballs will hold their shape beautifully as they cook.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

In a separate bowl, stir together the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and water until everything is well blended. This luscious sauce is what makes the Porcupine Meatballs Recipe truly special, offering a tangy, savory liquid that infuses the meatballs and keeps them moist during cooking.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the meatballs in the pot, covering them evenly. Place the lid on, bring the pot to a low boil over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low, allowing the meatballs to simmer gently for 35 to 40 minutes. This slow cooking helps the rice inside expand perfectly, while the flavors meld into a rich and comforting dish.

How to Serve Porcupine Meatballs Recipe

A white pot filled with many raw meatballs arranged at the bottom. Bright red tomato sauce is being poured over the meatballs from a clear container held by a woman's hand on the left side. The background and surface are white marble with grey veins. The scene is well lit with natural light showing texture on the sauce and meatballs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley over the hot meatballs adds a fresh burst of color and an herbal brightness that balances the richness of the dish. The parsley is a simple touch that elevates the presentation and taste, making your meal feel vibrant and complete.

Side Dishes

Porcupine Meatballs pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy bed of rice to soak up every drop of the delicious tomato sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad also make excellent sides, offering texture contrasts and a pop of freshness to round out your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs inside warm sub rolls with a little extra sauce and melted cheese for a hearty sandwich. Alternatively, turn this recipe into a pasta night classic by spooning the meatballs and sauce over spaghetti or egg noodles. No matter the presentation, these meatballs will be the star of your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Porcupine Meatballs keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen overnight, making for an even more delicious second meal. Just reheat gently and enjoy the comforting goodness anew.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Cool the meatballs and sauce completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for quick meals on busy days when you want comfort food without the fuss.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator if possible, then warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If refrigerated, reheat until just warmed through so the meatballs stay tender and juicy.

FAQs

What are porcupine meatballs?

Porcupine meatballs are savory beef meatballs that get their unique texture and name from the rice cooked inside them, which looks like tiny porcupine quills poking out as it expands during cooking. They’re simmered in a rich tomato sauce, making them a comforting and hearty dish.

Can I use different meats for this Porcupine Meatballs Recipe?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes use ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just keep in mind the fat content, as leaner meats may require slight adjustments to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice before mixing it in?

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing the meatballs from becoming gluey and helping the rice cook up fluffy inside the meatballs. It’s a simple step that improves the final texture immensely.

Can I make the sauce from scratch instead of canned tomato products?

Yes, fresh tomato sauce can be used if you prefer, but canned tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes offer consistent flavor and acidity, making the recipe easier and more reliable. If using fresh tomatoes, be sure to cook them down until thickened to mimic the canned versions’ texture.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Using the egg as a binder and not overmixing the meat mixture are key. Gently mixing ingredients and shaping the meatballs firmly helps them hold together during cooking. Also, simmering them gently in sauce instead of boiling keeps them intact and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Porcupine Meatballs Recipe holds a special place in my heart as a go-to comfort food that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat. It’s a delightful mix of simple ingredients and timeless flavors that come together effortlessly in one pot. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and bring a cozy, homemade touch to your table—you won’t regret it!