Mexican Meatballs
Flavorful Mexican-inspired meatballs with a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce, perfect for casual dinners or gatherings that enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground turkey, bread crumbs, chopped onion, horseradish, Tabasco, eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into 3/4-inch meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs until browned.
- Mix catsup, water, cider vinegar, chopped onion, and brown sugar to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey with ground beef or chicken if preferred. If you don’t have horseradish, a bit of mustard can add similar heat. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. To enhance flavors, let the meatballs marinate in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican meatballs are delicious served over rice or with warm tortillas. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables. They also complement well with sides like Mexican rice or beans. Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added richness. They make a great appetizer for gatherings or game day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist. Cover and simmer gently until heated through. You can also microwave them in short bursts, making sure they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Meatballs contains roughly 144 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (126% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2199mg per serving (96% 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 meatballs ahead of time and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just form them into balls and cover tightly until you're ready to cook. This makes it convenient for a quick weeknight dinner or for meal prep.
What can I serve with Mexican meatballs?
Mexican meatballs pair beautifully with a side of cilantro-lime rice or a simple green salad. You can also serve them as a filling for tacos or in a sub sandwich with cheese and toppings. Adding a side of beans or grilled veggies can round out the meal nicely.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm gently in the sauce or oven.
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).