Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These oven-baked porcupine meatballs are a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. They’re packed with flavor, incredibly tender, and require minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy cooks! This recipe provides a simple, healthy meal perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, rice, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Shape and bake: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes and water. Pour the tomato mixture evenly over the meatballs. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake until cooked through: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Tips for the Best Porcupine Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Gently combine the ingredients to prevent tough meatballs.
- Use good quality ground beef: The flavor of the meatballs will depend heavily on the quality of your ground beef.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or seasonings to suit your preference. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are cooked through.
- Make it ahead: These meatballs can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the porcupine meatballs over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
This easy recipe for porcupine meatballs offers a healthy and delicious meal option. The oven-baked method ensures juicy, flavorful meatballs and minimizes cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!