Juicy pork meatballs, fluffy rice, and a simple tomato sauce cook together in one pan for an easy family dinner. This one pan meatballs and rice recipe is full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Recipe

One pan meatballs and rice served in a white bowl, featuring juicy homemade meatballs over seasoned tomato rice

Why You'll Love This One Pan Meatballs and Rice

Everything cooks in one pan for easier cleanup.
The rice absorbs all the flavor from the meatballs and sauce.
Made with simple pantry-friendly ingredients.
Great for weeknight dinners and leftovers.

A friend of my father used to make meatballs whenever we visited his house on weekends. They were rarely served with pasta. Instead, he would cook them with rice so everything absorbed the flavor from the meat and sauce. This recipe reminds me of those meals because the rice cooks right alongside the meatballs, soaking up every bit of flavor. If you enjoy one-pan rice dinners, my One Pot Spanish Chicken and Rice and Chicken Thigh and Rice Casserole have that same comforting family-style feel.

What I like about this recipe is how much it delivers with such simple ingredients. The pork meatballs stay juicy, the tomato sauce adds freshness, and the rice turns tender as it cooks in the same pan. It feels comforting without requiring hours in the kitchen, much like my Smothered Pork Chops or Creamy Balsamic Chicken. Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup easier while still creating a dinner that feels complete.

Key Ingredients in Meatballs and Rice

You'll find the exact measurements in the recipe card, but here's a closer look at key ingredients and why I use them.

Pork Meatballs: I use ground pork, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, breadcrumbs, parsley, and eggs for meatballs that stay juicy and tender. The paprika adds warmth, while the breadcrumbs and eggs help hold everything together.
Vegetables & Tomato Sauce: The onion, red bell pepper, tomatoes, and garlic build the base of the sauce. I like how the tomatoes cook down into the rice and give the whole pan a simple, fresh flavor.
Rice & Seasoning: Long-grain white rice works best here because it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce without becoming too heavy. The divided salt seasons both the vegetables and the rice properly.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil to soften the vegetables and brown the meatballs. It adds flavor from the start and helps everything cook beautifully in the same pan.

How to Make a Meatball Rice Skillet

You can find the complete printable recipe with measurements below, but for now, here's a quick overview of how it goes:

1. Make the Meatballs: Combine the ground pork, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, breadcrumbs, parsley, and eggs in a large bowl. Mix until just combined, then shape into 11-12 meatballs.

2. Cook the Vegetables and Meatballs: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, red bell pepper, salt, and black pepper, then cook until softened. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides.

3. Add the Tomato Sauce and Rice: Blend the tomatoes and garlic until smooth, then pour into the pan. Cook until slightly thickened, then add the rice, water, and remaining salt. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.

4. Cover and Cook: Cover and cook over low heat until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from the heat and let the pan rest, covered, before serving.

Close up one pan meatballs and rice served in a white bowl, featuring juicy homemade meatballs over seasoned tomato rice

Helpful Swaps

Ground Chicken or Turkey: I sometimes use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork when I want a lighter version. The meatballs will be a little leaner but still delicious.
Basmati Rice: Long-grain white rice is my first choice, but basmati rice also works well and stays nice and fluffy in the pan.
Canned Tomatoes: When fresh tomatoes are not at their best, I use canned whole tomatoes and blend them with the garlic for a similar sauce.

Tips for the Best Meatballs and Rice

Brown the Meatballs Well: I like to give the meatballs enough time to develop a golden crust before adding the tomato mixture. Those browned bits add extra flavor to the rice.

Keep the Lid Closed: Once the rice starts cooking, I try not to lift the lid too often. The trapped steam helps the rice cook evenly.

Use a Large Pan: A wide skillet allows the rice to cook in an even layer, which helps it absorb the liquid properly.

Storage

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. A splash of water when reheating helps keep the rice from drying out.

What to Serve With Meatballs and Rice

I like serving this dish with a fresh tomato burrata salad or a simple salad for some contrast. Warm garlic bread or crusty ciabatta is perfect for soaking up the tomato sauce, and a light lemon mousse makes a nice dessert afterward.