Tamale Balls
Tamale Balls are savory meatballs infused with bold spices, baked to perfection, and served with a rich stewed tomato sauce. This hearty dish combines the flavors of ground beef and pork with aromatic seasonings, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal suitable for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine and mix all ingredients, except stewed tomatoes, until well blended.
- Pinch off small portions and roll into bite-sized balls.
- Place the meatballs on cookie sheets and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine stewed tomatoes, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt; bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.
- Pour the sauce into a large chafing dish or serving dish and add the baked meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or substituting some of the ground beef with chorizo. If you're short on time, pre-made meatballs can be used instead of rolling your own. You can also swap out the cornmeal for masa harina for a more authentic tamale flavor. For a vegetarian version, try using black beans or lentils as a base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tamale balls over a bed of rice or alongside Mexican-style corn on the cob for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Gwen'S Enchiladas or a side of guacamole for an added flavor boost. A fresh salad or tortilla chips can also complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tamale balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale Balls contains roughly 477 calories, with 22g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (165% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1352mg per serving (59% 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 tamale balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. They can be stored uncooked for up to 24 hours. Just bake them right before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, try using a mixture of ground beef and pork for added flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider black beans or lentils.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce, cooking for a few more minutes until thickened.
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).