Slow Cooker Amish Porcupine Meatballs
This 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe is the definition of a comforting, no-fuss family dinner. Known as “porcupine” meatballs for the way the rice pokes out of the meat as it cooks—resemblittle quills—this dish has been a staple in Amish and Midwestern kitchens for generations. It’s budget-friendly, requires minimal prep, and lets the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting.
Why This Recipe Works
Just 5 simple ingredients – Ground beef, rice, and a few pantry staples are all you need.
No browning required – The meatballs go straight into the slow cooker raw.
Rice cooks inside the meatballs – It absorbs flavor and creates that signature “porcupine” texture.
Built-in gravy – The soups create a rich, savory sauce as they cook.
Budget-friendly – A pound and a half of beef stretches into a generous meal.
Minimal prep, maximum flavor – Ready in 10 minutes, then the slow cooker takes over.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser – Kids and adults alike will ask for seconds.
The 5 Ingredients
Ingredient Amount Notes
Ground beef 1½ lbs 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio works best
Uncooked white rice ½ cup Long-grain or jasmine (do not use instant rice)
Onion soup mix 1 (1 oz) packet Dry mix (such as Lipton)
Cream of mushroom soup 1 (10.5 oz) can Cream of chicken can be substituted
Beef broth 1 cup Low-sodium recommended
No egg, no breadcrumbs, no complicated steps.
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