Little Latin Meatballs
Juicy Latin-inspired meatballs with spicy jalapenos and melted cheese, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, served with salsa for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove stems and seeds from chilies; chop chilies.
- Mix chilies, ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, milk, cheese, onion, salt, and pepper.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place meatballs in an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Cook uncovered in a 400°F oven until browned, approximately 20 minutes.
- Place cooked meatballs in a chafing dish.
- Pour salsa over meatballs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. If you're sensitive to heat, reduce the number of jalapenos or remove the seeds completely. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with Pepper Jack for extra spice. Mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the taste. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with a side of rice or alongside a fresh salad to balance the flavors. They pair beautifully with Jeanne'S Mexican Cornbread for a delicious meal. Offer various dipping sauces, like salsa or guacamole, for added flavor and variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Latin Meatballs contains roughly 57 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just shape them into balls and store in an airtight container. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, some tortilla chips, or even as part of a taco bar. They can also be incorporated into other dishes, like a Mexican sandwich or served over spaghetti for a fun twist.
Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
Absolutely! Once baked, allow the meatballs to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and they can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by baking at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
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).