Get ready to dig into a culinary adventure like no other! Porcupine meatballs are a unique and delicious twist on traditional meatball recipes. With their compact, rolled shape and rich flavor profiles, these little bundles of joy can be served in a variety of ways – from classic beef and rice porcupines to cheesy stuffed masterpieces. Whether you’re looking for a comforting casserole or a bold, spicy kick, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 savory porcupine recipes.
From the humble beginnings of a slow cooker porcupine meatball in gravy to the sophisticated flavors of porcupine meatballs with spinach and feta, there’s something on this list for every palate. So why settle for plain old meatballs when you can try something new and exciting? Dive into our world of porcupines and discover the endless possibilities!
Classic Beef and Rice Porcupine Meatballs
This hearty dish combines tender beef meatballs with a savory mixture of cooked rice, tomato sauce, and spices, perfect for a comforting meal or dinner party. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat crushed tomatoes and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, spooning tomato sauce over the meatballs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Porcupine Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this creative twist! These bite-sized treats combine tender beef and pork with a gooey cheesy center, all wrapped up in a crispy porcupine-inspired coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, cheddar cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Stuff each meatball with about 1 tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese.
5. Dip each meatball in flour, shaking off excess, then fry in hot oil until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Porcupine Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
This recipe combines the savory flavors of meatballs with the spicy kick of porcupine-inspired ingredients, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a party that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1-2 dashes hot sauce (such as sriracha or hot sauce of your choice)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups homemade tomato sauce (or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, scallions, and hot sauce. Mix until just combined.
3. Form meat mixture into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with homemade tomato sauce (or store-bought) over your favorite pasta, rice, or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs in Gravy
This hearty recipe is a twist on traditional meatballs, featuring ground beef and pork mixture coated with a sweet and tangy mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and pineapple. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, crushed pineapple, and oregano. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in slow cooker.
4. Pour beef broth over the meatballs. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Porcupine Meatball Casserole with Mozzarella
A creative twist on traditional meatball subs, this casserole combines the flavors of porcupine meatballs (made with ground pork and beef) with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the meatballs according to package instructions or bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the onion and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the meatball mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour the marinara sauce over the top of the meatballs.
7. Sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs with Mushroom Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty dish, featuring tender meatballs wrapped in a savory tomato-based mixture and served in a creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the tomato paste and beef broth in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve the meatballs with the mushroom sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Glazed Porcupine Meatballs
Transform your meatball game with this unique combination of pork, beef, and sweet potato, topped with a tangy BBQ glaze. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 lb ground beef
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: toothpicks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, beef, sweet potato, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Brush with BBQ glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve warm, garnished with toothpicks if desired.
Cooking Time: 23-25 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs in Creamy Alfredo Sauce
A twist on the classic meatball recipe, these porcupine meatballs are wrapped in a layer of cream cheese and baked to perfection. Serve them in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce for a satisfying comfort food meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 jar Alfredo sauce (about 16 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Wrap each meatball with cream cheese, tucking ends under to seal.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat Alfredo sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Serve warm porcupine meatballs in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Porcupine Meatball Soup with Vegetables
This comforting soup is a creative twist on traditional meatball soup, featuring a unique combination of ground beef and pork mixed with tomato sauce and served with a medley of vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, green beans, and peas)
– 8 oz pasta, cooked and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the baked meatballs to the soup and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Stir in the mixed vegetables and pasta.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Porcupine Meatball Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional sliders! This recipe combines savory meatballs, sweet Hawaiian rolls, and tangy BBQ sauce for an unforgettable bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 Hawaiian rolls
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Split Hawaiian rolls in half. Top each half with a meatball, a dollop of BBQ sauce, and chopped parsley.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes (including baking time)
Porcupine Meatballs with Sweet and Sour Sauce
Get ready to sink your teeth into a unique twist on traditional meatballs! This recipe combines the flavors of porcupine quills (aka pork rinds) with sweet and sour sauce, creating a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds (porcupine quills)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet and Sour Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed pork rinds, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
1. Combine 1 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce in a bowl.
2. Whisk until smooth.
Porcupine Meatballs Stuffed with Cheddar
Transform classic meatballs into a delicious, cheesy treat with this recipe. Porcupine meatballs are stuffed with cheddar cheese and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
5. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs with Spinach and Feta
This classic Greek-inspired dish combines juicy meatballs with a tangy tomato sauce, crispy spinach, and crumbly feta cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh spinach leaves for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, and feta cheese in a bowl.
2. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat crushed tomatoes and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add baked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot with fresh spinach leaves on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs in Spicy Sriracha Glaze
A twist on traditional meatballs, these Porcupine Meatballs are wrapped in sweet and tangy pineapple rings and smothered in a spicy Sriracha glaze. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual dinner parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple rings
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap each meatball with a pineapple ring, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine Sriracha sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with spicy glaze.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs with Teriyaki Sauce
This recipe brings together the flavors of Japan and Italy to create a unique and delicious twist on traditional meatballs. With the sweetness of teriyaki sauce and the crunch of toasted sesame seeds, these porcupine meatballs are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are cooking, heat teriyaki sauce in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
7. Remove meatballs from oven and toss with toasted sesame seeds and teriyaki sauce.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Porcupine Meatball Skewers with Peppers
These meatball skewers are a flavorful twist on traditional appetizers, featuring tender beef and pork meatballs wrapped in bacon and served with sweet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each into a meatball.
4. Wrap each meatball with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with roasted peppers (drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs in Marinara with Pasta
This classic Italian-American recipe combines the rich flavors of beef, pork, and tomato sauce with al dente pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form meat mixture into 20-25 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are cooking, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and baked meatballs. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
8. Serve meatball mixture with cooked pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Porcupine Meatballs with Garlic Parmesan Cream
A twist on traditional meatballs, these porcupine meatballs are coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and served with a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and sprinkle minced garlic evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are cooking, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve porcupine meatballs with garlic parmesan cream sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 savory porcupine recipes! From classic beef and rice meatballs to cheesy stuffed and spicy variations, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make mouthwatering meatball casseroles, soups, sliders, and more with creative twists like mushroom sauce, BBQ glaze, and creamy Alfredo. Whether you’re a meatball newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking and create your own unique flavor profiles.
