Slow Cooker Amish Porcupine Meatballs: The Hearty Family Dinner Everyone Loves 🍽️
Slow Cooker Amish Porcupine Meatballs are a classic comfort food that has been shared in Midwestern kitchens for generations. The funny name “porcupine” comes from the way uncooked rice pokes out of the meatballs while they cook, creating little spikes that look like porcupine quills.
This easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe is popular in church cookbooks and family dinners because it’s simple, affordable, and incredibly filling. Just mix, shape, and let the slow cooker do the rest. The result is tender meatballs in a rich, savory gravy that everyone will ask for again.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, potlucks, and cozy comfort food dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup uncooked white rice
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, and onion soup mix. Mix gently until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 1–1½ inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs into the slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream soup and beef broth until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are tender and the rice is cooked.
Serving Suggestions
These savory slow cooker meatballs are delicious served with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Egg noodles
- Steamed rice
- Buttered bread or dinner rolls
The rich gravy makes them perfect for soaking into your favorite sides.
Tips for the Best Porcupine Meatballs
✔ Use lean ground beef so the sauce isn’t too greasy.
✔ Add garlic powder or black pepper for extra flavor.
✔ Stir gently halfway through cooking if possible to coat the meatballs in sauce.
Why Families Love This Recipe ❤️
- Only 5 ingredients
- Easy slow cooker dinner
- Budget-friendly comfort food
- Minimal prep time (10 minutes)
- Perfect for busy families
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