Print

Porcupine Meatballs with Gravy

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Porcupine Meatballs with Gravy are tender ground beef meatballs mixed with uncooked rice and simmered in rich brown gravy. The rice expands while cooking, creating a ‘porcupine’ appearance. It’s a nostalgic, hearty dish perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (divided)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  2. Shape into meatballs about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to be cooked through). Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in beef broth and 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce until smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through and rice is tender.
  7. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.
  8. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Substitute tomato-based sauce for a different twist.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
  • Can be made in a slow cooker after browning the meatballs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/porcupine-meatballs-with-gravy/