Print

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls Recipe

4.9 from 71 reviews

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls are a flavorful and fun twist on classic meatballs, packed with bold Mexican spices, fresh herbs, and a kick of jalapeño. These juicy beef meatballs are combined with sharp cheddar, crunchy tortilla chips, and served in a spicy tomato and green chili sauce. Perfect as a party appetizer or a zesty main dish, garnished with fresh lime wedges for a burst of brightness.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
  • 1 egg, beaten

Cooking and Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 can (15 oz) Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies
  • Fresh lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, cilantro, finely chopped jalapeño, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, ensuring they are compact and evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and the meatballs are cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Add the Sauce: Pour the Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies into the skillet with the meatballs. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh lime wedges for squeezing over just before eating, adding a fresh citrus brightness.

Notes

  • Deseeding the jalapeño reduces the heat level; keep seeds if you prefer it spicier.
  • Crushed tortilla chips add a subtle crunch and help bind the meatballs without making them dense.
  • Use fresh cilantro for bright, herbal notes that complement the spices perfectly.
  • These meatballs can be served as appetizers or with rice and beans for a complete meal.

Keywords: Mexican meatballs, spicy meatballs, ground beef recipe, jalapeño meatballs, cheddar meatballs, appetizer, spicy Mexican dish