Pork and rice meatball bake
This Pork and Rice Meatball Bake features tender meatballs made from ground pork, rice, and spices, simmered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with feta cheese. It's a comforting, one-dish meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
24 oz ground pork1 onion
1/2 cup white rice
1/2 cup fresh parsley
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
2 cans canned tomatoes
1 cup chicken gravy
1/3 cup feta cheese
Dive into a comforting and hearty dish with this Pork and Rice Meatball Bake. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this recipe brings together ground pork, fragrant spices, and a delightful tomato sauce, all topped with savory feta cheese. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a delicious meal in no time.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, finely chopped onion, white rice, chopped fresh parsley, ground cumin, and dried oregano.
- Mix thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well combined.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a plate or tray as you go.
- In a large baking dish, pour in the canned tomatoes (including the juice) and chicken gravy.
- Stir to combine evenly.
- Nestle the meatballs into the tomato and gravy mixture in the baking dish.
- Ensure the meatballs are slightly submerged in the sauce to keep them moist while baking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the meatballs and sauce.
- Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through, and the feta cheese is slightly browned.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the meatballs hot with the tomato gravy spooned over the top. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh parsley.
- Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this Pork and Rice Meatball Bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. It's an easy way to bring a gourmet feel to your dinner table with minimal effort. Enjoy the delicious combination of ground pork, fragrant spices, and savory feta in every bite!
Pork and rice meatball bake FAQ:
The total baking time is 60 minutes: 45 minutes covered with foil, followed by an additional 15 minutes uncovered to brown the feta cheese.
The meatballs should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one in half to check that there is no pink meat inside.
Yes, you can substitute ground pork with ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Adjust cooking times as necessary, ensuring the meat reaches the safe minimum temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months.
A large baking dish, approximately 9x13 inches, is recommended to accommodate the meatballs and sauce comfortably.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before baking. This will add a nice crust and deepen the overall taste.
- Use fresh herbs if possible, as they will enhance the flavor. Fresh parsley and oregano can make a big difference.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
- Ensure your rice is rinsed before using to remove excess starch, which can make it gummy.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the meal.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 740kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 7g
Fat 40g
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