Enchilada Meatballs

Enchilada Meatballs Recipe - Savory and Flavorful Mexican Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 22 minutes | Servings: 4-0.5 dozen

Introduction

Enchilada Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, combining the flavors of enchiladas with the convenience of bite-sized meatballs. These savory meatballs are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or a fun family dinner.

History

Enchilada Meatballs are a modern fusion dish that combines the flavors of Mexican enchiladas with classic meatballs. This recipe takes the traditional enchilada sauce and cheese and incorporates them into a tasty meatball dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

2 cups of crumbled corn bread
1 can (10 oz or 283 g) of enchilada sauce, divided
0.5 tsp of salt
1-0.5 lb (or 227 g) of ground beef
1 can (8 oz or 227 g) of tomato sauce
0.5 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine the corn bread, 0.5 cup of enchilada sauce, and salt. Crumble beef over the mixture and mix well.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place the balls in a greased 15 inches x 10 inches x 1-inch baking pan. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 18–22 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat the tomato sauce and the remaining enchilada sauce.
Drain the meatballs and place them in a serving dish. Top with the sauce and sprinkle with cheese.
Serve with toothpicks. Yield: about 4.5 dozen.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.
Add diced green chilies or jalapenos to the meatball mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Top the meatballs with sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro for added flavor and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly mix the corn bread, enchilada sauce, and salt before adding the ground beef to ensure even distribution of flavors.

- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape the meatballs into uniform size for even cooking.

- Be sure to drain the meatballs before adding the sauce to prevent them from becoming soggy.

- Serve the meatballs with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Enchilada Meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking, or as a main dish with rice and beans on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatballs in the oven ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior. Be sure to drain the meatballs before adding the sauce to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have corn bread, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips as a substitute. You can also use homemade enchilada sauce instead of canned for a fresher flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. You can also freeze the baked meatballs and reheat them in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Enchilada Meatballs on a platter with a side of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Enchilada Meatballs with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Serve with a cold beer or a margarita for a festive touch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick snack.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Enchilada Meatballs contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Enchilada Meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Enchilada Meatballs contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Enchilada Meatballs contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Enchilada Meatballs are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (corn bread). It may also contain soy depending on the brand of enchilada sauce used.

Summary

Enchilada Meatballs are a balanced dish with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a flavorful and satisfying option for a snack or meal.

Summary

Enchilada Meatballs are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, combining the flavors of enchiladas with the convenience of bite-sized snacks. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria had always been the queen of Mexican cooking, and I was eager to learn some of her secrets.

As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of spices and sizzling meat filled the air. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I have something special to show you today," she said, leading me to the stove where a pot of simmering sauce bubbled away.

"What is it?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

"Enchilada meatballs," Maria replied, a mischievous glint in her eye. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother. It's been passed down through generations, and now I'm passing it on to you."

I watched as Maria expertly shaped the ground beef mixture into small, savory meatballs. She then dipped them in a rich, spicy sauce made from tomatoes, peppers, and a blend of secret spices. The aroma was intoxicating, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

As the meatballs cooked in the sauce, Maria shared stories of her childhood in Mexico, of family gatherings and celebrations where these meatballs were always the star of the show. I listened intently, hanging on her every word, as she imparted her wisdom and love for traditional Mexican cuisine.

Finally, the meatballs were done, and Maria served them up on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of cheese. I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The meatballs were tender and juicy, the sauce spicy and tangy, the perfect combination of savory and sweet.

I couldn't believe how delicious they were. I asked Maria for the recipe, eager to recreate this culinary masterpiece in my own kitchen. She handed me a worn, stained piece of paper with scribbled instructions in her elegant handwriting.

I thanked her profusely, promising to cherish this recipe and pass it on to future generations. Maria smiled and gave me a hug, her eyes filled with pride. "Cook with love, mi amiga," she said. "That's the secret ingredient in all great recipes."

And so, I returned home with the recipe for enchilada meatballs in hand, ready to share this newfound treasure with my family. I gathered the ingredients, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work in my own kitchen, channeling Maria's expert guidance and love for cooking.

The meatballs sizzled in the pan, the sauce bubbled on the stove, and the familiar aroma of spices and herbs filled the air. I couldn't help but smile as I thought of Maria and her warm kitchen, of the stories and traditions she had shared with me.

Finally, the enchilada meatballs were done, and I plated them up with a side of rice and beans, just like Maria had taught me. My family gathered around the table, their eyes wide with anticipation. I served them the meatballs, watching as they took their first bite.

And just like me, their taste buds exploded with flavor. They oohed and aahed, showering me with compliments and praise. I beamed with pride, knowing that I had successfully recreated Maria's beloved recipe for enchilada meatballs.

From that day on, enchilada meatballs became a staple in our family meals. I made them for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions, each time with love and care, just as Maria had taught me.

And every time I cook these meatballs, I think of Maria and her warm kitchen, of the stories and traditions she shared with me. I am forever grateful for her friendship, her wisdom, and the gift of this delicious recipe that has brought joy and comfort to my family for generations to come. Cooking with love truly is the secret ingredient in all great recipes.