Cheesy Mexican Meatballs That Will Spice Up Family Dinners

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Why Make This Recipe

Family dinners can sometimes feel repetitive, but with these Cheesy Mexican Meatballs, meal time takes on a whole new, exciting flavor. This dish not only delivers on taste but also on ease of preparation. The mix of ground beef and cheese, combined with vibrant spices and enchilada sauce, creates a warm, comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, kids love meatballs! Serving them with Mexican flavors will make it feel like a special occasion.

Whether you are looking to add some zest to your weeknight dinners or want to impress guests, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. The best part is that it can be doubled or halved to suit your needs. With this recipe, you can create delicious meatballs that are loaded with cheesy goodness and a touch of spice.

How to Make Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

Making Cheesy Mexican Meatballs is easy and straightforward. You’ll find that the process requires just a few simple steps, making it a great recipe for cooks of all skill levels. Here’s a simplified view of what you will do.

Ingredients

1 lb Ground Beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1/2 cup Oats (can be substituted with breadcrumbs or almond flour)
1 large Egg (binds the meat mixture)
2 cups Red Enchilada Sauce (mild or spicy based on preference)
to taste Seasonings (salt, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, oregano, cumin, chili powder) (adjust chili powder for heat)
to taste Hot Sauce (optional) (omit if preferred)
2 cups Cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
to taste Cilantro (optional for garnish)

Directions

Preparation

Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your meatballs are prepared.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), oats, and the egg. Make sure all ingredients are well mixed.
Add Spices: Sprinkle in your chosen seasonings. Adjust the chili powder based on how much heat you want to bring to your meatballs. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Incorporate Cheese: Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the texture light.
Form Meatballs: Using your hands (wetting them slightly can help), shape the mixture into 1 to 2-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Prepare for Baking: Once all your meatballs are made, pour the enchilada sauce over them evenly.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the meatballs bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they are no longer pink on the inside and have reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Add Remaining Cheese: After baking, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the meatballs. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted a bit.
Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving for a fresh touch.

How to Serve Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

These meatballs can be an exciting main dish or a fun appetizer. Here are some suggestions on how to serve them:

With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the enchilada sauce to soak into the grains for extra flavor.
In Tacos: Chop the meatballs into smaller pieces and serve them in taco shells topped with fresh veggies, salsa, and sour cream.
With Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer — it’s like a cheesy nacho feast!
With a Salad: Serve alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. The flavors of the meatballs can enhance a simple green salad.

How to Store Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

Storing these meatballs is fairly simple, and they can last for several days. Here’s how to do it:

In the Refrigerator: If storing cooked meatballs, let them cool down first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about 3-4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze them initially. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or bake them in the oven until heated through. If frozen, you may want to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the level of spices based on your family’s taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with heat levels!
Make Ahead: For busy weeks, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them before cooking. This will save time on busy nights.
Add Vegetables: You can sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers or onion for added nutrition and moisture.
Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese blends such as Mexican cheese blend for unique flavors.

Variations

If you want to switch it up, here are some variations you can try:

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: Replace the beef with ground chicken and mix in buffalo sauce instead of enchilada sauce, tossing in some blue cheese for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with a mixture of black beans and brown rice, along with the same spices and cheese to create a hearty vegetarian option.
BBQ Meatballs: Use BBQ sauce in place of enchilada sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a lighter option. The flavor will still be delicious.

2. What can I use if I don’t have oats?
You can use breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of oats. Both work well to bind the meat mixture.

3. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be safely consumed.

4. Can I make these meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and form the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for future meals.

5. What should I serve with these meatballs?
They can be served with rice, inside tacos, or alongside a fresh salad. They are also great as appetizers with tortilla chips.

With new flavors and a cheesy twist, these Cheesy Mexican Meatballs can easily turn your family dinner into an exciting culinary adventure. They’re simple to prepare and packed with deliciousness, making them a perfect addition to your recipe rotation. Enjoy making and sharing this dish with those you love!