Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Whenever I think of cozy winter meals, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs always comes to mind. The aroma fills the house, inviting family and friends to gather around the table. I remember the first time I made these delightful meatballs; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm and comforting. As the ingredients simmered away in the slow cooker, anticipation grew. The secret is in the combination of flavors that meld together beautifully, creating an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet dinner, these meatballs never disappoint.

There’s just something so satisfying about sinking your fork into a tender meatball, smothered in a rich tomato sauce, and served over fluffy rice. The kids loved them, and I appreciated how easy they were to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, I was able to whip up a meal that felt like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a classic recipe that always seems to hit the spot, especially when served with a side of greens for balance.

So, if you’re looking for a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest, look no further than Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. It’s a recipe that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it a favorite in our household.

What to Buy for Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

When it comes to crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each element adds depth and character, creating a dish that’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience. The star of the show, ground beef, provides the hearty base, while white rice acts as a binder, ensuring each meatball holds its shape. Together with a medley of seasonings, they harmonize beautifully in the slow cooker.

• 1 pound lean ground beef – The foundation of these meatballs, it provides richness and flavor.
• ½ cup uncooked white rice – Adds texture and helps bind the meatballs for a hearty feel.
• ⅓ cup finely chopped white onion – Introduces a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic qualities.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent to keep the meatballs intact.
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt – A perfect blend of spices to elevate the savoriness.
• ½ teaspoon pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
• ½ teaspoon dried basil – Infuses a hint of herbal essence.
• non-stick cooking spray – Ensures the meatballs don’t stick during cooking.
• 1 cup water – Provides moisture for the sauce.
• 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce – The rich, tangy base that envelops the meatballs.
• ¼ cup light brown sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce – A savory component that deepens the flavor profile.
• cooked rice for serving – A wonderful bed for the meatballs to rest on.
• fresh parsley – A bright garnish to finish off the dish.

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs Instructions

Cooking Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs is a delightful and straightforward process. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish come to life!

1. Preheat your oven to broil at 550 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is essential for browning the meatballs, giving them a lovely texture. Once the oven is ready, line a sheet pan with tin foil to make cleanup easier later.
2. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound lean ground beef, ½ cup uncooked white rice, ⅓ cup finely chopped white onion, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon dried basil. Knead the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Scoop the meat mixture into 2 tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Aim for about 20 meatballs for a perfect serving size. Place all of the formed meatballs on the prepared sheet pan.
4. Generously spray the meatballs with non-stick cooking spray to ensure they don’t stick during baking. Broil the meatballs in the oven for 6 minutes, turning them halfway to achieve an even golden color.
5. While the meatballs are broiling, prepare your slow cooker. Spray the inside with non-stick spray for easy cleanup. Add 1 cup water, 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce, ¼ cup light brown sugar, and ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture to combine.
6. Once the meatballs are done broiling, layer them on top of the tomato mixture in the slow cooker. Spoon some sauce over the meatballs to ensure they are well coated.
7. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. When the cooking time is up, check that the meatballs are cooked through. If they are, carefully remove them from the slow cooker.
9. Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked rice, garnishing with salt and pepper if desired, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

Recipe Notes about Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

There are a few tips to keep in mind when making Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. These will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months.
• Pairing: Consider pairing these meatballs with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or over pasta for a hearty twist.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs or spices to change up the flavor profile!

Pairing Suggestions for Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Serving Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs can be just as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Pair with Rice: Serve over a fluffy bed of cooked rice that soaks up all the savory sauce.
• Fresh Greens: A side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables for a nutritious balance.
• Bread Pairing: A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
• Occasions: These meatballs are versatile enough for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even game day celebrations.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They also make a great meal prep option!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs truly stand out as a comforting and convenient dish that has a special place in any home. With their delightful flavors and easy preparation, they make for an ideal meal that brings everyone together. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next gathering or cozy dinner at home. You won’t be disappointed!

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are the perfect blend of savory flavors and tender texture. With minimal effort, you can create a deliciously easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Serve it over rice for a hearty meal tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• ⅓ cup finely chopped white onion
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• non-stick cooking spray
• 1 cup water
• 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• cooked rice for serving
• fresh parsley

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to broil at 550 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is essential for browning the meatballs, giving them a lovely texture. Once the oven is ready, line a sheet pan with tin foil to make cleanup easier later.
• In a large bowl, combine 1 pound lean ground beef, ½ cup uncooked white rice, ⅓ cup finely chopped white onion, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon dried basil. Knead the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
• Scoop the meat mixture into 2 tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Aim for about 20 meatballs for a perfect serving size. Place all of the formed meatballs on the prepared sheet pan.
• Generously spray the meatballs with non-stick cooking spray to ensure they don’t stick during baking. Broil the meatballs in the oven for 6 minutes, turning them halfway to achieve an even golden color.
• While the meatballs are broiling, prepare your slow cooker. Spray the inside with non-stick spray for easy cleanup. Add 1 cup water, 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce, ¼ cup light brown sugar, and ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture to combine.
• Once the meatballs are done broiling, layer them on top of the tomato mixture in the slow cooker. Spoon some sauce over the meatballs to ensure they are well coated.
• Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
• When the cooking time is up, check that the meatballs are cooked through. If they are, carefully remove them from the slow cooker.
• Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked rice, garnishing with salt and pepper if desired, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. These meatballs freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months. Consider pairing these meatballs with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or over pasta for a hearty twist. Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs or spices to change up the flavor profile!

Keyword Comfort Food Meatballs, easy meatball recipe, Porcupine Meatballs, Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!