Easy and comforting Porcupine Meatballs recipe! Ground beef and rice simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. A simple and satisfying family favorite.

Looking for a dinner that’s both nostalgic and incredibly easy to make? These classic Porcupine Meatballs are a long-time family favorite! The unique texture from the rice “quills” and the savory tomato sauce make this a dish that disappears quickly. It’s the perfect solution for a fuss-free and satisfying meal.

Anecdote/Historical Tidbit: The name “Porcupine Meatballs” comes from the way the rice grains stick out of the meatballs as they cook, resembling the quills of a porcupine. This dish gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a simple and economical way to stretch ground meat and incorporate grains into a meal.

Make it Easier (Shortcuts):

• Use pre-chopped onions from the grocery store to save on prep time.
• Instead of shaping individual meatballs, you could gently drop spoonfuls of the mixture directly into the simmering sauce for a more rustic (and quicker) approach, though they might not be perfectly round.

Add More Flavor (Enhancements):

• Brown the meatballs: For a deeper, more complex flavor, lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little olive oil before adding them to the tomato sauce.
• Add herbs: Stir in a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or a tablespoon of fresh, chopped parsley or basil to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Serving Suggestions/Drink Pairings:

• Serve over your favorite rice.
• Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
• A simple side salad with a vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
• Pair with a light-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is refreshing.

Interesting Variations:

• Cheesy Porcupine Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese to the center of each meatball before shaping for a melty surprise.
• Mushroom Porcupine Meatballs: Sauté finely chopped mushrooms and add them to the ground beef mixture for an earthy flavor.
• Spicy Porcupine Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a little heat.