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Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls: Irresistibly Cheesy Meatball Delight

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls are an irresistible appetizer combining bold Mexican flavors in a cheesy meatball, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 cup Chopped Onion Essential for moisture and sweetness
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro Can be omitted if less herb flavor is desired
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper Adjust quantity according to spice tolerance
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic is best
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Essential for flavor
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Experiment with different types for flavor variety
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if needed
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste) Adjust according to taste
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Monterey Jack can be used as an alternative
  • 1 cup Crushed Tortilla Chips Can substitute with panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large Egg (beaten) Acts as a binder
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For searing meatballs
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Mexican-style Tomatoes with Green Chilies 15 oz
  • 1 Fresh Lime Wedges For garnishing

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your ingredients and equipment.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, cilantro, diced jalapeño, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crushed tortilla chips into the meat mixture.
  4. Pour the beaten egg into your mixture and stir gently until fully integrated.
  5. Form tablespoon-sized balls with the mixture and arrange them on a plate.
  6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the meatballs for about 5 minutes until golden-brown.
  7. Pour the can of Mexican-style tomatoes around the meatballs in the skillet to create a sauce.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Allow the meatballs to rest before serving with fresh lime wedges and tortilla chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

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