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–+ servings
Mexican Donkey Balls

Irresistible Mexican Donkey Balls Packed with Flavors and Spice

These Mexican Donkey Balls combine spicy jalapeños and cheesy goodness in a delightful bite-sized appetizer.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 medium Chopped Onion adds moisture and sweetness
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro optional
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper adjust quantity to suit spice tolerance
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) fresh garlic recommended
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tbsp Chili Powder experiment with different types for unique flavors
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika can substitute with regular paprika
  • to taste Salt and Pepper adjust to personal preference
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese can substitute with Monterey Jack
  • 1 cup Crushed Tortilla Chips can swap with panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large Egg (beaten) can consider flax egg for vegan option
For the Sauce
  • 15 oz Mexican-style Tomatoes with Green Chilies diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch
For Serving
  • to taste Fresh Lime Wedges lemon can also be used
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil use any cooking oil preferred

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather ingredients while the oven heats.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and crushed tortilla chips carefully.
  4. Incorporate beaten egg into the mixture until smooth.
  5. Shape into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on a platter, aiming for uniform size.
  6. Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and sear until golden brown.
  7. Pour Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies over the meatballs, coating them well.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 14gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

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