This easy porcupine meatballs recipe is a classic family favourite made with beef mince, rice, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect with mash and veggies for a hearty dinner.
There are some recipes that just feel like a hug on a plate, and porcupine meatballs is one of them. I hadn’t made this in years, and when I cooked it the other night, I was reminded just how good it is. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and so nostalgic. The rice inside the meatballs makes them plump and fluffy, while the rich tomato sauce ties everything together. This is one of those dinners that brings the family to the table, and there are rarely leftovers!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Budget friendly – uses pantry staples and Woolies beef mince.
- Hearty and filling – the rice inside the meatballs makes them extra satisfying.
- Family favourite – kids and adults love it, and it’s great for leftovers.
- One-pot wonder – the meatballs cook right in the tomato sauce, making it simple and fuss-free.
- Comfort food at its best – serve with creamy mashed potato and steamed veggies for a wholesome dinner.
How to make porcupine meatballs
- Mix the meatball ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the beef mince, uncooked jasmine rice, diced onion, dried Italian herbs, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Use clean hands to mix everything together until well combined.
- Shape into meatballs
Roll the mixture into meatballs, using about ¼ cup of mixture for each one. You should get around 16–18 meatballs.
- Prepare the tomato sauce
In a large saucepan or deep frying pan, pour in the passata, chopped tomatoes, and 1 cup of water. Bring it to the boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the meatballs
Carefully drop the meatballs into the sauce. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks, and let the rice inside the meatballs cook through.
- Serve and enjoy
Once the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender, serve them hot with mashed potato and veggies. Spoon plenty of sauce over the top — it’s too good to waste!
Porcupine Meatballs
Ingredients
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750g beef mince
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1/2 cup uncooked jasmine rice
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1 small onion, finely diced (or 1/2 large onion)
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2 tsp dried Italian herbs
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Salt + pepper, to season
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1 x 680g jar tomato passata
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1 tin chopped tomatoes with herbs
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1 cup water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together beef mince, rice, onion, herbs, and seasoning until well combined.
- Roll mixture into balls (about ¼ cup of mixture per ball).
- In a large saucepan, add passata, chopped tomatoes, and water. Bring to the boil.
- Place meatballs into the sauce. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with mashed potato and steamed vegetables.
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