Go Back
–+ servings
Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls for a Flavor-Packed Fiesta

These Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls are a flavor-packed delight that combines ground beef, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
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 Key flavor component, no substitutions suggested.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro Can be omitted for those who prefer less herb flavor.
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper Adjust the quantity based on spice tolerance.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic is best for optimal taste.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin No substitutes suggested.
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Feel free to experiment with different chili powders.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste) Adjust according to personal preference.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Other cheeses like Monterey Jack can be used.
  • 1 cup Crushed Tortilla Chips Can be swapped with panko breadcrumbs.
  • 1 large Egg (beaten) For a vegan alternative, consider using a flax egg.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Any cooking oil works, but olive oil enhances flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Mexican-style Tomatoes with Green Chilies 15 oz can, can use diced tomatoes in a pinch.
For Garnish
  • 2 Fresh Lime Wedges Lemon can substitute for a zesty finish.

Equipment

  • oven
  • mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your workspace and gather your ingredients.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Incorporate shredded cheddar and crushed tortilla chips to the mixture, folding gently without overmixing.
  4. Add the beaten egg and combine until smooth, ensuring the mixture binds well.
  5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
  6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Pour the can of Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies around the meatballs in the skillet.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  9. Remove from the oven, let rest, and then serve garnished with fresh lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 2meatballsCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Mix gently to avoid tough meatballs and ensure uniform size for even cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!