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Ingredient Amount Notes
Ground beef 1½ lbs 85/15 works best
Uncooked white rice ½ cup Long-grain or jasmine (not instant)
Onion soup mix 1 (1 oz) packet Dry mix (like Lipton)
Cream of mushroom soup 1 (10.5 oz) can Or cream of chicken
Beef broth 1 cup Low sodium
That's it. No egg. No breadcrumbs. No complicated steps.
The Method: Mix, Roll, Layer, Cook, Devour
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Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Uncooked rice
Onion soup mix
Mix gently with your hands until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Roll mixture into 1½-inch meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each). You should get 18-20 meatballs.
Step 3: Layer in Slow Cooker
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Place meatballs in your 6-quart slow cooker in a single layer if possible (slightly overlapping is okay).
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Cream of mushroom soup
Beef broth
Pour over the meatballs, covering them as much as possible.
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Step 5: Cook
Cover and cook on:
LOW for 6-8 hours
HIGH for 3-4 hours
Step 6: Serve
Serve meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Pro-Tips for Porcupine Perfection
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1. Don't Use Instant Rice
Instant rice will turn to mush. Regular long-grain rice holds its shape and creates that classic "porcupine" look.
2. Don't Overmix
Mix just until combined. Overmixing makes meatballs dense and tough.
3. Size Matters
Keep meatballs uniform in size for even cooking. A cookie scoop helps.
4. Don't Lift the Lid
Every time you lift the lid, you add 20-30 minutes to cooking time. Resist the urge to peek.
5. Thicken the Gravy If Desired
If you want thicker gravy, remove meatballs, whisk in 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, and cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes.
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6. Rice Will Absorb Liquid
The rice continues to absorb liquid as it sits. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth.
Endless Variations
Cheesy Porcupine Meatballs:
Stir 1 cup shredded cheddar into the gravy at the end, or sprinkle over meatballs before serving.
Spicy Version:
Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Use pepper jack cheese.
