Porcupine Meatballs with Rice-a-Roni
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Category: One Dish Meal
Servings: 4
Description:
This delicious comfort food comes straight from my favorite aunt’s kitchen, and it’s an instant hit with her entire family. The recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and heartiness, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal in a hurry. Even better, this dish is so easy that her bachelor sons have mastered making it themselves—although, like most sons, they’d still prefer mom to do the cooking! With savory meatballs, rice, and a rich brown gravy, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Egg | 1 |
| Rice-a-Roni (any flavor) | 1 box |
| Brown Gravy Mix | 2 packets |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 262.2 kcal |
| Fat Content | 18.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 130 mg |
| Sodium | 92.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
| Protein | 22.6 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
Start by combining the ground beef, egg, and the contents of the Rice-a-Roni box (keeping the seasoning packet aside). Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. -
Shape the Meatballs:
Once the mixture is ready, shape it into meatballs. You can make them as large or small as you prefer, but aim for about 1-inch diameter to ensure they cook evenly. -
Brown the Meatballs:
In a frying pan over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Turn the meatballs gently with tongs or a spoon to make sure all sides are cooked. -
Drain the Grease:
Once the meatballs are browned, drain any excess grease from the pan to keep the dish from being too oily. -
Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the Rice-a-Roni seasoning packet over the meatballs. This will give the meatballs a wonderful flavor boost. -
Prepare the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, mix the brown gravy mix with water according to the package instructions. Pour the prepared gravy over the meatballs in the pan. -
Simmer the Meatballs:
Cover the pan with a lid and let the meatballs simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken. -
Serve:
Serve the porcupine meatballs over a bed of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience. The rich gravy pairs perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes.
Tips & Variations:
- Rice Variations: If you want to switch things up, try using a flavored Rice-a-Roni, such as Spanish or Chicken, for a different twist.
- Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat in a pan with a little water to refresh the gravy.
- Freezing: To freeze, cook the meatballs as directed, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and heat in a pan with the gravy.
This dish is a favorite not only because of its amazing flavor but also because it’s so simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy families looking for a hearty meal in no time. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced one, you’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is. Enjoy your meal!
