5-Ingredient Amish Porcupine Meatballs in the Slow Cooker

This 5-ingredient Amish porcupine meatball recipe is the ultimate no-fuss, stick-to-your-ribs meal that has been nourishing farm families for generations. The name comes from the little grains of rice that peek out of the meatballs after cooking—like tiny quills.

On days when the fridge is looking bare, this dish never disappoints: just mix uncooked rice into ground beef, add a few pantry staples, set the slow cooker, and let time work its magic. The result is simple, hearty, and packed with the kind of comfort you remember from church potlucks and grandma’s kitchen.

Serve these meatballs in their rich tomato sauce over mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, with sides like green beans or sweet corn. A crisp salad helps balance the richness, and warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the sauce. For a classic Midwestern touch, finish the meal with applesauce or a slice of pie.

Slow Cooker Amish Porcupine Meatballs 🍲🌾

Ingredients

• Ground beef (80–85% lean) – 1½ lbs (base protein)
• Long-grain white rice, uncooked – ½ cup (mixed into beef)
• Kosher salt – 1 tsp (or ¾ tsp table salt)
• Black pepper – ½ tsp (seasoning)
• Condensed tomato soup – 2 cans (10.5 oz each) (sauce base)

Directions

1. Prep slow cooker: Lightly grease the insert to prevent sticking.
2. Mix meatballs: Combine beef, rice, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Shape meatballs: Form into golf ball–sized portions and arrange in a single (or snug double) layer in the slow cooker.
4. Add sauce: Pour the tomato soup evenly over the meatballs, spreading gently to coat. Do not add water.
5. Cook: Cover and cook—LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3 hours—until meatballs are cooked through, rice is tender, and sauce has thickened.
6. Finish: Stir gently to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning. If the sauce is too thick, stir in 2–4 tbsp of hot water or broth.
7. Serve: Spoon meatballs with tomato gravy over mashed potatoes or noodles. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
• Flavors improve overnight.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.