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1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
2. Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size you choose. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased plate.
3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), water, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Once the sauce is simmering, carefully add the meatballs to the sauce. Make sure they are submerged in the sauce as much as possible. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
6. Cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 30-35 minutes. Stir gently every 10 minutes to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
7. After 30-35 minutes, check the meatballs for doneness. They should be cooked through and the rice should be tender. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
8. If you’re using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover the pot again to allow the cheese to melt beautifully over the meatballs.
9. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and make it easier to serve.
10. Serve the porcupine meatballs over a bed of cooked pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. The sauce is delicious and pairs well with any of these options.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate the dish.
12. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad or steamed vegetables alongside the meatballs. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
13. If you have any leftovers, allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
14. To reheat, simply place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

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