Tex-Mex Meatballs – Get ready for a tantalizing Tex-Mex experience with these incredible meatballs! Bursting with zesty flavors and gooey cheese, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who craves a fusion of Mexican and American cuisines. The combination of ground beef, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure. Don’t miss out on this special recipe that will add excitement to your dinner table!
Picture this: it’s a cozy evening, and the delicious aroma of Tex-Mex Meatballs fills your kitchen. The sound of laughter echoes as your loved ones gather around the table, eagerly waiting for their favorite dish. This recipe holds a special place in your heart because it’s not just about the flavors—it’s about the memories. From the first time you made these meatballs, they became an instant hit with your husband and little family. The kids couldn’t resist the cheesy surprise in the center, and your husband was in awe of the bold spices that danced on his palate. Now, Tex-Mex Meatballs have become a staple in your household, a symbol of togetherness and joy.
Why This Recipe Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance?
- Fusion of Flavors: Tex-Mex Meatballs bring together the best of both worlds with a harmonious blend of Mexican and American flavors. The combination of spices, jalapeño, and chipotle chiles in adobo adds a kick of heat that perfectly complements the savory beef.
- Cheesy Surprise: As you sink your teeth into these delectable meatballs, prepare for a delightful surprise! The generous addition of shredded Mexican cheese blend creates a gooey and melty center that adds a luscious and irresistible element to every bite.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, this recipe is perfect for busy households. You can whip up these mouthwatering meatballs in no time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
- Versatile Delight: Tex-Mex Meatballs can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a main course alongside rice and beans, or stuff them into a warm tortilla for a scrumptious Tex-Mex twist on meatball subs. These meatballs are a crowd-pleaser at parties and potlucks, and they even make delicious leftovers for the next day’s lunch.
Ingredients:
- 680 grams (1 1/2 lb.) ground beef
- 226 grams (2 cups) shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
- 60 grams (1/2 cup) panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup of shredded cheese, panko bread crumbs, freshly chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely chopped jalapeño, egg, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients until well-combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs.
Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and sear them for about 2 minutes per side until they develop a brown crust. Once seared, transfer the meatballs to a plate.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft, which should take around 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chopped chipotle chiles in adobo, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer for about 10 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the meatballs in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for approximately 2 minutes.
Before serving, garnish the Tex-Mex Meatballs with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.
Notes:
- Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño and chipotle chiles in adobo according to your preference.
- If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Serve these meatballs with warm tortillas, rice, or as a filling for sandwiches for a variety of serving options.
In conclusion, Tex-Mex Meatballs are a culinary adventure that brings together the best of both worlds. The fusion of Mexican and American flavors creates a tantalizing dish that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit.
The combination of succulent ground beef, aromatic spices, and a cheesy surprise in the center makes every bite a burst of flavor. The versatility of this recipe allows you to explore different serving options, from pairing it with rice and beans to creating a Tex-Mex meatball sub. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings people together around the table, creating cherished moments and lasting memories.
So, don’t hesitate to try out this irresistible recipe for Tex-Mex Meatballs. Share the joy with your loved ones, and let the enticing aroma and robust flavors transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Prepare to be captivated by the zesty spices, melted cheese, and the love and care that go into each and every bite. Get ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey that will become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the deliciousness and the moments of togetherness that this recipe brings. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, follow the directions in Step 2 and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in a skillet or the oven.
Can I substitute the ground beef with a different type of meat?
Certainly! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can use ground pork, chicken, or turkey as an alternative. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.
How can I reduce the spiciness of the meatballs?
If you prefer milder flavors, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before finely chopping it. Additionally, reducing the amount of chipotle chiles in adobo will also help in reducing the spiciness.
Tex-Mex Meatballs
Ingredients
- 680 grams 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
- 226 grams 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
- 60 grams 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley plus more for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 15- ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 large onion chopped
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup of shredded cheese, panko bread crumbs, freshly chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely chopped jalapeño, egg, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients until well-combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and sear them for about 2 minutes per side until they develop a brown crust. Once seared, transfer the meatballs to a plate.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft, which should take around 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chopped chipotle chiles in adobo, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer for about 10 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the meatballs in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for approximately 2 minutes.
- Before serving, garnish the Tex-Mex Meatballs with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.
Leave a Reply