Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs combine the bold, spicy flavors of classic jalapeño poppers with juicy, oven-baked meatballs. Each bite delivers a creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in tender beef, making this dish an irresistible appetizer or main course. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside rice or salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spicy, cheesy, and juicy – A delicious twist on traditional meatballs.
• Perfect for appetizers or dinner – Serve with dips, pasta, or rice.
• Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Customizable heat level – Adjust the spice by using more or fewer jalapeños.
• Oven-baked for convenience – No frying required, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Directions

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, and green onions until well combined.
2. Roll into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each) and place on a tray. Freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.

Make the Meatballs:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until well combined.
3. Take a portion of the meatball mixture, flatten it, and place a frozen cheese filling ball in the center.
4. Wrap the meat around the filling, sealing tightly to ensure the cheese stays inside while baking.

Bake & Serve:

1. Arrange stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a main dish with rice or salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra Spicy Version – Add chopped serrano peppers or red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Milder Option – Use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh for a less intense heat.
• Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, gouda, or mozzarella.
• Low-Carb Option – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Chicken or Turkey Version – Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner alternative.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and freeze them before baking, then bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes of cooking time.

2. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the meat mixture is sealed tightly around the filling and freeze the cheese balls before stuffing.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or pork work well in this recipe.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with these meatballs?

Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or a spicy garlic aioli are great options.

5. Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

6. How do I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed pork rinds.

7. Can I grill these meatballs instead of baking?

Yes, grill over medium heat for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally.

8. What side dishes go well with these meatballs?

Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

9. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

10. How do I make the filling even creamier?

Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cheese mixture for a smoother texture.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate fusion of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors wrapped in a juicy beef meatball. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or main dish, these stuffed meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today for a fun and flavorful twist on classic meatballs!