Go Back
These baked enchilada meatballs are saucy, cheesy, and full of bold Mexican-inspired flavor.

Baked Enchilada Meatballs Recipe

A comforting meal that offers bold flavors with tender meatballs in enchilada sauce and melted cheese for a cozy family dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Meatballs
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (or mix of beef and pork) Choose beef with some fat for tenderness.
  • 1 egg egg Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (or breadcrumbs) Use crushed tortilla chips for a unique flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Add minced garlic for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Season to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust quantity for desired spice level.
Sauce and Topping
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce Use mild or spicy sauce based on preference.
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend) Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting.
  • optional chopped onion, chopped cilantro, lime wedges For serving and enhancing flavor.
—Advertisement—

Instructions
 

Preparation and Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, crushed tortilla chips, minced garlic, salt, cumin, and chili powder until just combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches wide.
  4. Place the meatballs on a baking dish or sheet and bake for about 15 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through.
  5. Pour the enchilada sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
  6. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
  7. For a more golden top, bake a couple of minutes longer, monitoring closely.
Serving
  1. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to help flavors settle.
  2. Serve with optional toppings of chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.
—Advertisement—

Notes

Feel free to prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Also, avoid overmixing the meat to keep meatballs tender.