Name: Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground beef; 1/4 cup Cilantro, fresh; 1 clove Garlic, minced; 1 Jalapeno pepper, diced; 1 Lime, fresh wedges; 1 can Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies; 1/2 cup Onion, chopped; 1 Egg; 1 tsp Chili powder; 1/2 tsp Paprika, smoked; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp Olive oil; 1 tsp Cumin, ground; 1/2 cup Tortilla chips, crushed; 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded

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why make this recipe

This recipe gives big bold taste in small bites. It cooks fast and feeds a group. The mix of jalapeño, cilantro, cheese, and spices makes a lively snack or party food. If you like bold meatballs, try a related twist like Bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs for another easy crowd-pleaser.

introduction

These Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls are simple to make. They are spicy, cheesy, and crunchy on the inside. You can serve them as a snack, appetizer, or a fun dinner side. The recipe uses common ingredients and bakes in the oven for an easy clean-up. If you want a different festive meatball, look at this Christmas cranberry meatballs for inspiration.

how to make Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Follow the steps below. Work in order and keep the mix warm before shaping. The crushed tortilla chips add a nice crunch and help bind the mix. Remember to shape the mix into even balls so they cook the same.

Ingredients :

1 lb Ground beef
1/4 cup Cilantro, fresh
1 clove Garlic, minced
1 Jalapeno pepper, diced
1 Lime, Fresh wedges
1 can Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies
1/2 cup Onion, chopped
1 Egg
1 tsp Chili powder
1/2 tsp Paprika, smoked
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp Olive oil
1 tsp Cumin, ground
1/2 cup Tortilla chips, crushed
1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in the jalapeno, cilantro, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and season with salt and pepper.
Mix in the can of Mexican-style tomatoes and let simmer for a few minutes.
Remove from heat and mix in crushed tortilla chips and cheddar cheese.
Shape the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Serve with fresh lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

how to serve Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Serve warm with lime wedges. Offer a simple salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. These go well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Place them on a platter for guests and add toothpicks for easy picking.

how to store Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Cool the balls to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them on a tray until firm, then move to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or warm in the microwave.

tips to make Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Do not overmix the meat. Mix just enough to combine ingredients.
Use fresh cilantro and lime for bright flavor.
If you want less heat, remove the jalapeño seeds.
For a different binder, you can use breadcrumbs instead of crushed tortilla chips.
For another stuffing idea, try ideas from cranberry turkey stuffing balls and adapt as you like.

variation (if any)

Make them milder: skip the jalapeño or use a small amount.
Make them cheesier: add extra cheddar or a mix of cheeses.
Add beans: mash some black beans into the mix for fiber and texture.
Make them spicy: add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
A: Yes. Cook time stays close, but check that meat reaches a safe temperature.

Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Shape the balls and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze them raw or baked.

Q: Do I need to add egg?
A: The egg helps bind the mixture. You can try a small amount of plain yogurt or a flax egg for a substitute.

Q: How do I know when they are done?
A: They should be golden brown and firm. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the center reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef.

Conclusion

This dish makes a fun, spicy snack that is easy to share. For another take on spicy stuffed bites you can compare this to a published version on Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls Recipe – DishesbyDaisy. If you want a creamy, cheesy party ball idea, see the Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – The Country Cook.