Jazzy Beef Balls
Juicy beef balls stuffed with cheddar cheese, flavored with tangy ketchup, horseradish, and mustard, perfect for entertaining or hearty appetizers for cheese and meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ketchup, horseradish, prepared mustard, minced onions, salt, and pepper; let stand for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef and bread crumbs.
- Stir the ketchup mixture into the ground beef mixture.
- Cut cheddar cheese into small cubes about 1/4 inch.
- Shape the meat mixture around each cheese cube, forming into balls.
- Cook the beef balls by spearing and cooking in a fondue pot for 1 1/2 minutes or slowly frying in a pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the ketchup mixture sit for at least 10 minutes to meld the ingredients. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a bit more horseradish. You may substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, if you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers can work as a great alternative. For a fun twist, try adding herbs like parsley or basil to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
These jazzy beef balls are perfect as appetizers for a party or game day. Serve them with a side of spicy dipping sauce or a tangy ranch dressing. Pair them with a fresh salad or on a platter with assorted veggies for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving them alongside One-Pan Spaghetti for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beef balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jazzy Beef Balls contains roughly 85 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 765mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these beef balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef balls up to a day in advance. Shape them and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just be sure to cook them right before serving for the best texture and taste.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese alternative, mozzarella is a great choice for a milder flavor and gooey texture. Alternatively, you could use pepper jack for a spicy kick. Make sure to cut the cheese into small cubes to ensure it melts well inside the beef balls.
How do I know when the beef balls are cooked through?
To ensure the beef balls are fully cooked, they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut one in half; the meat should be browned with no pink remaining. Cooking time may vary based on your method, so monitor them closely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).