Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup

Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup: A Classic Comfort Food Delight

Step into the realm of comforting nostalgia with our Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup recipe. These hearty meatballs, studded with rice and simmered in a rich tomato soup sauce, evoke memories of cozy family dinners and the simple joys of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re looking to recreate a beloved childhood favorite or seeking a comforting dish to warm your soul, these Porcupine Meatballs are sure to satisfy. Join us as we journey through the steps to create this timeless comfort food delight!

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
  • 1/2 cup Minute rice
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 x 10.5oz cans condensed tomato soup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
  2. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Minute rice, egg, diced yellow onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
  3. Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
  4. Prepare Tomato Soup Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together condensed tomato soup, water, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Pour the tomato soup mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  6. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.
  7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the Porcupine Meatballs from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the meatballs by adding minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme, or grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or quinoa flakes instead of Minute rice for a gluten-free version of these meatballs.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve the Porcupine Meatballs over cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a hearty meal.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

  • Keto Option: Substitute Minute rice with cauliflower rice or almond flour to reduce the carb content. Use a low-carb tomato soup alternative or make a homemade keto-friendly tomato sauce. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
  • Low-Carb Option: Similarly, opt for cauliflower rice or grated zucchini instead of Minute rice. Choose a low-carb tomato soup with no added sugars or carbohydrates. Be mindful of the carb content in the Worcestershire sauce and adjust accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that ground poultry may result in slightly lighter meatballs.
  2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and tomato soup sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply assemble the meatballs in the baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and bake as directed.
  3. What can I serve with Porcupine Meatballs? These meatballs pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. You can also serve them with crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftover Porcupine Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave until heated through.

healty meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

In conclusion, Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Soup offer a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their hearty texture, flavorful seasoning, and luscious tomato sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a beloved family favorite. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served as a comforting weeknight dinner, they embody the essence of home-cooked comfort food. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the nostalgic flavors of Porcupine Meatballs. Your taste buds will thank you for it!