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"Spicy Mexican meatballs served with rich tomato sauce, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges."

Spicy Mexican Balls Recipe | Authentic Mexican Appetizer Idea

"Spicy Mexican balls are flavorful, zesty, and delicious. Made with seasoned meat, herbs, and spices, they’re the perfect appetizer or main dish for family dinners, parties, or when you want authentic Mexican flavor at home."
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Dish, Party Snack
Cuisine Fusion, Mexican-Inspired, Tex Mex
Servings 6 (about 20 balls)
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet (for frying)
  • Baking sheet (for oven version)
  • Food processor (for chopping jalapeños and garlic)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cooling racks

Ingredients
  

Meat Mixture

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ lb chorizo sausage
  • ½ cup cooked rice
  • 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 egg (binder)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

Cheese Filling

  • 20 small cubes of cheddar or mozzarella

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Salsa or sour cream dip

Instructions
 

  • Mix Meat & Spices: In a large bowl, combine beef, chorizo, rice, jalapeños, garlic, spices, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently until combined.
  • Stuff with Cheese: Take a portion of mixture, flatten slightly, place a cheese cube in the center, and roll into a ball.
  • Chill: Place meatballs on a tray and refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
  • Cook Meatballs:
    -Frying Method: Heat oil in a cast iron skillet. Fry until golden brown and cooked through.
    -Baking Method: Place on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
  • Serve: Arrange on a platter, garnish with cilantro and lime, and serve with salsa or sour cream.
  • Expert Tip: Freeze stuffed balls for 15 minutes before cooking to prevent cheese from leaking.

Notes

  • Variations: Try chipotle chicken balls, vegetarian bean-and-corn balls, or mini bite-sized versions for parties.
  • Storage: Refrigerate cooked balls up to 3 days; freeze uncooked balls for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Use oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
  • Pairings: Best with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, plus Mexican rice or tortillas.
  • Common Mistakes: Add breadcrumbs/egg to prevent crumbling, toast nuts or spices for depth, and balance spice with creamy dips.
Keyword cheese-stuffed balls, jalapeño bites, Mexican appetizer, Party Food, Spicy meatballs