Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Get ready to elevate your meatball game with these deliciously cheesy and spicy Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Meatballs! Perfect for a game day appetizer or a flavorful weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Form the mixture into meatballs, making a small indentation in the center of each meatball.
  • Place a small spoonful of cream cheese in the indentation and then seal the meatball around it.
  • Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
  • Brush the meatballs with barbecue sauce and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

  • Calories: 232
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Protein: 17g

Popular Questions:

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

    • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.

  • Can I use a different type of cheese?

    • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

  • Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

    • Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to the point of baking, then store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

  • Can I freeze these meatballs?

    • Yes, you can freeze the unbaked meatballs for later use. Thaw before baking as directed.

  • Can I make these meatballs less spicy?

    • You can reduce the amount of jalapeños used or remove the seeds to decrease the spice level.

Helpful Tips:

  • For extra heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeños.
  • Serve these meatballs with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
  • Try adding some crispy cooked bacon to the meatball mixture for added flavor.
  • For a low-carb option, skip the breadcrumbs or use almond flour instead.
  • Experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor profile.

Expert Secrets:

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the meatballs.
  • To ensure even cooking, make the meatballs a uniform size.
  • Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.

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