Description
Juicy beef meatballs stuffed with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño filling, baked to perfection—an irresistible twist on a classic! These meatballs bring the perfect balance of spice, cheesiness, and tenderness, making them a hit at any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, and green onions.
- Roll into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each) and place on a tray.
- Freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
2. Make the Meatballs:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
- Take a portion of the meat mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a frozen filling ball in the center, and wrap the meat around it, sealing tightly.
3. Bake & Serve:
- Arrange stuffed meatballs on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a main dish with rice or salad!
Notes
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for an extra spicy kick.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Serve with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or BBQ sauce for dipping.