If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, look no further than Baked Enchilada Meatballs. This innovative dish combines the classic flavors of enchiladas with the convenience of meatballs, all baked to perfection and topped with a cheesy, gooey sauce. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love or a tasty appetizer for your next gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey: Ground beef adds a richer flavor, while ground turkey is a lighter alternative. Both work wonderfully in this recipe.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds a nice texture.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 teaspoons cumin: For a warm, earthy note.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Contributes a hint of herbal freshness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the meatballs.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
For the Sauce and Topping:
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (divided): Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade enchilada sauce.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy richness.
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Sliced green onions, for garnish: Provides a crisp and mild onion flavor.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should get approximately 20-24 meatballs, depending on size.
2. Bake the Meatballs
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Check for Doneness: To ensure the meatballs are done, you can cut one open to check that there is no pink in the center and the juices run clear.
3. Prepare the Sauce and Cheese
- Heat the Enchilada Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, pour 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until warmed through. This will be used to coat the meatballs.
- Add Cheese: Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven. Spoon a small amount of enchilada sauce over each meatball, then sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend on top.
4. Finish Baking
- Broil: Return the meatballs to the oven and set the broiler to high. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Serve these meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside a side of Mexican-style corn for a complete meal. You can also pair them with a fresh green salad or some sautéed vegetables.
- As an Appetizer: These meatballs make a fantastic party appetizer. Serve them with extra enchilada sauce or a side of sour cream for dipping.
- In Tacos: For a fun twist, use the meatballs as a filling for tacos. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Use Lean Meat: For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey. If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for ground beef.
- Uniform Size: Make sure your meatballs are uniform in size so they cook evenly. A small cookie scoop can help achieve consistent sizes.
- Avoid Overmixing: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Resting Time: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatballs moist.
Baked Enchilada Meatballs offer a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas, combining the comforting flavors of enchiladas with the convenience and appeal of meatballs. Baked to perfection and topped with melted cheese, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy the savory blend of spices and the cheesy goodness that make these meatballs a standout dish!
Serve them with your favorite sides or enjoy them on their own for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Happy cooking!
Feel free to adjust any details to better fit your style or audience!
