Cheesy Mexican Meatballs: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Cheesy Mexican Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 10 ounces red enchilada sauce (divided); 1 pound ground beef; 0.75 cup oats (coarsely ground); 2 units eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon oregano; 0.5 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon hot sauce (optional); 2 cups grated cheese ((cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack)); 0 units cilantro (for garnish (optional))

Introduction to Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together with its warm, cheesy goodness, then look no further than Cheesy Mexican Meatballs. These savory, flavorful morsels are not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of deliciousness that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, these meatballs can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a fun meal for game day!

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Mexican Meatballs Journey

Growing up, family dinners were a cherished tradition. My grandmother would often whip up her famous meatballs, infused with spices and cheeses that filled the house with irresistible aromas. As I ventured into cooking, I decided to give my own twist to her classic recipe, incorporating Mexican flavors and, of course, plenty of cheese! This recipe is a tribute to those wonderful family meals, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.

What Makes This Cheesy Mexican Meatballs Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of traditional meatball ingredients with vibrant Mexican spices and enchilada sauce. Each meatball is tender and juicy, while the melted cheese on top adds a creamy richness that elevates the dish to new heights. Plus, the option to adjust the spice level means that everyone can enjoy this dish exactly how they like it! It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings.

The Full Cheesy Mexican Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

10 ounces red enchilada sauce, divided
1 pound ground beef
3/4 cup oats, coarsely ground
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
2 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack)
Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. This step is important to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce, ground beef, ground oats, eggs, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, oregano, cumin, chili powder, and hot sauce (if using). Use your hands to mix everything well until fully combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs by hand or using a medium-sized cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons each). Place the meatballs in the prepared baking dish, making sure they’re evenly spaced.

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the meatballs. This will infuse the meatballs with flavor as they cook. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Uncover the dish, sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the meatballs, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve the enchilada meatballs straight from the oven, garnished with cilantro if desired. Enjoy them with rice, tortillas, or on their own!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

These Cheesy Mexican Meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm tortillas for a complete meal. You can also transform them into a fun appetizer by serving them with toothpicks and a side of extra enchilada sauce for dipping. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños to the meatball mixture or serving with a spicy salsa. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or even add black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Mexican Meatballs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs, place them in the baking dish with the sauce, and cover them. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze beautifully! Simply shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Cheesy Mexican Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including rice, beans, or a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed in tacos or as a part of a nachos platter!