Name: Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; ¼ cup plain bread crumbs; 2 tbsp whole milk; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ cup block cheddar cheese; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 jalapenos

Looking for a fun twist on traditional meatballs? These jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs are the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors. Ideal for game day appetizers or a unique dinner, these meatballs are sure to impress your friends and family.

Photos of Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

For this recipe, you might need to pick up a few items that aren't always in your pantry or fridge. Cream cheese and jalapenos might not be everyday staples for everyone, so make sure to grab these at the supermarket along with a good block of cheddar cheese.

Ingredients For Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Ground beef: The primary protein for the meatballs, providing a hearty and flavorful base.

Plain bread crumbs: Helps to bind the meatballs and add a slight texture.

Whole milk: Adds moisture to the meat mixture, making the meatballs tender.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a depth of umami flavor to the meatballs.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs.

Cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, creamy taste that complements the jalapenos and cream cheese.

Cream cheese: Adds a rich, creamy filling that pairs well with the spicy jalapenos.

Jalapenos: Brings a spicy kick to the meatball filling.

One reader, Isidore Renfro says:

These jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs are a game-changer! The creamy cheese and spicy jalapeno inside the juicy meatballs create an explosion of flavors. Perfect for parties or a fun dinner, they were a huge hit with my family. Definitely adding this to my regular recipe rotation!

Isidore Renfro

Techniques Required for Making Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

How to mix ingredients: Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and salt in a medium-size mixing bowl until well mixed. How to shape meatballs: Form the mixture into 20 meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. How to cut cheese: Cut the cheddar cheese and cream cheese into ¼-inch cubes. How to flatten meatballs: Flatten each meatball in the palm of your hand to prepare for stuffing. How to stuff meatballs: Place a piece of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and a slice of jalapeno in the center of the flattened meatball, then wrap it back into a meatball shape. How to bake meatballs: Place the stuffed meatballs into a baking pan and cook in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for 22 to 25 minutes.

How To Make Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Serve a loaded appetizer with these stuffed meatballs. They’re packed with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapeno peppers.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbground beef,(85/15)
¼cupplain bread crumbs
2tbspwhole milk
2tspWorcestershire sauce
½tspkosher salt
½cupblock cheddar cheese,cubed
4ozcream cheese,cubed
1jalapenos,thinly sliced with seeds removed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a medium-size mixing bowl, add the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix until combined.
Shape into 20 meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
Cut the cheddar cheese and cream cheese into ¼-inch cubes.
Working one at a time, take a meatball and flatten it in the palm of one hand. Place a piece of cream cheese and cheddar cheese along with a slice of jalapeno and wrap it back into a meatball shape.
Place the meatball into the baking pan and cook for 22 to 25 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 97.29kcal
Fat: 7.72g
Saturated Fat: 3.50g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.28g
Carbohydrates: 1.48g
Fiber: 0.08g
Sugar: 0.44g
Protein: 5.26g
Cholesterol: 25.86mg
Sodium: 83.19mg
Calcium: 36.78mg
Potassium: 82.51mg
Iron: 0.56mg
Vitamin A: 31.43µg
Vitamin C: 0.90mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

To ensure the cheese stays perfectly melted and gooey inside the meatballs, make sure to chill the cheddar cheese and cream cheese cubes in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before stuffing. This will help them hold their shape better during the cooking process and prevent them from oozing out too quickly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Stuffed Jalapeno Meatballs

Prepare the filling: Pre-cut the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and jalapenos into cubes and slices ahead of time.

Uniform shape: Use a small ice cream scoop to portion out the meat mixture evenly.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with flattened meatballs, cheese, and jalapeno slices to speed up the stuffing process.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half of the meatballs for a quick meal later.

Substitute Ingredients For Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.
plain bread crumbs - Substitute with panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs offer a lighter, crispier texture which can enhance the meatballs.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can provide a similar moisture content.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor, though it may be slightly saltier.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar taste.
block cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and can be used to stuff the meatballs.
jalapenos - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but have a similar flavor profile to jalapenos.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Jalapeno Meatballs

Serve smaller portion sizes: Create bite-sized jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs to ensure each piece is a perfect mouthful of flavor.
Use a sophisticated plate: Opt for a sleek, white porcelain plate to highlight the vibrant colors and textures of the meatballs.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of fresh cilantro or parsley to enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of freshness.
Drizzle with a complementary sauce: Prepare a creamy avocado sauce or a spicy aioli to drizzle artistically over the meatballs.
Add a crunchy element: Sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs on top for an added texture contrast.
Use microgreens for elegance: Place a small bunch of microgreens on the side of the plate to add a touch of sophistication.
Create height on the plate: Stack the meatballs in a pyramid shape to add visual interest and dimension.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Use thin slices of red bell pepper or radish to add pops of color around the meatballs.
Serve with a dipping sauce: Provide a small ramekin of ranch dressing or sour cream on the side for dipping.
Finish with a light dusting of spices: Lightly dust the plate with smoked paprika or chili powder for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Essential Tools for Making Jalapeno Popper Meatballs

Oven: Used to preheat and cook the meatballs at a consistent temperature of 400 degrees F.
Medium-size mixing bowl: Used to combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
Baking sheet: Used to place the shaped meatballs before baking them in the oven.
Knife: Used to cut the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and jalapeno into appropriate sizes.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the cheese and jalapeno.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the bread crumbs and milk accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the Worcestershire sauce and kosher salt accurately.
Mixing spoon: Used to mix the ground beef mixture until well combined.
Baking pan: Used to place the stuffed meatballs for baking in the oven.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Jalapeno Popper Meatballs

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs recipe:

Let the cooked meatballs cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their shape.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
To freeze the meatballs:
- Arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave the frozen meatballs on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to rotate the meatballs halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.

How To Reheat Leftover Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

To reheat leftover jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help maintain the texture and flavor of the meatballs while ensuring the cheese filling is melted and gooey.
Another option is to reheat the meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat over medium-low heat. Add the meatballs and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the meatballs are heated through and the cheese filling is melted.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place the meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the meatballs, as this can cause the cheese filling to explode.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy.
For a flavorful twist, reheat the meatballs in a simmering tomato sauce or beef broth. This will not only heat the meatballs but also infuse them with additional flavor. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce or broth for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Interesting Trivia About Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

A fun fact about this jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs recipe is that the combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a creamy and tangy filling that perfectly complements the spicy kick from the jalapenos.

Is Making Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?

This jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like ground beef, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese are affordable and readily available. With a pound of ground beef costing around $5, cheese at $3, and other ingredients totaling about $2, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. Considering the delicious and filling nature of this dish, it offers great value for money. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?

The jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

High in saturated fat: The recipe uses ground beef, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, all of which are high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
Calorie-dense: With the combination of meat, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these meatballs are likely to be high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
Low in fiber: The recipe doesn't include any significant sources of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting feelings of fullness.
Limited vegetables: Apart from the jalapeno, the recipe doesn't incorporate any other vegetables, missing out on the opportunity to add more nutrients and fiber to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the saturated fat content
Opt for low-fat cheese alternatives or reduce the amount of cheese used
Incorporate more vegetables into the meatballs, such as finely chopped spinach, carrots, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of plain breadcrumbs to add more fiber
Serve the meatballs with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

Editor's Opinion on This Jalapeno Popper Meatball Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional meatballs by incorporating the bold flavors of jalapeno poppers. The combination of ground beef, cheddar, and cream cheese ensures a rich, creamy interior, while the jalapeno adds a pleasant kick. The use of Worcestershire sauce and bread crumbs enhances the meat's savory profile. Baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 22 to 25 minutes should yield perfectly cooked meatballs with a gooey, flavorful center. Overall, this dish is an inventive and delicious appetizer or main course that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the spicy kick of the jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Picture tender asparagus spears, lightly charred on the grill and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. The bright, citrusy notes will cut through the richness of the meatballs, adding a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire dining experience.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Envision sweet, tender carrots glazed with a luscious honey coating. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the savory, cheesy meatballs, creating a delightful interplay of flavors that will have your guests reaching for seconds.

Creamy Avocado Salad: Think of a vibrant salad featuring creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. Tossed in a light, tangy dressing, this salad adds a refreshing, cool element to the meal, balancing the heat from the jalapenos and the richness of the cheeses.

Parmesan Herb Breadsticks: Visualize warm, golden breadsticks sprinkled with fragrant herbs and a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese. These crispy, cheesy breadsticks are the perfect vehicle for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness from the meatballs, making every bite a delightful experience.

Similar Recipes to Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights feature mushrooms stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic. Perfect for any gathering, these savory morsels are baked to golden perfection.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: Spice up your appetizer game with these chicken meatballs, infused with buffalo sauce and served with a side of blue cheese dressing. These zesty bites are sure to be a hit at any party.

Spinach Artichoke Dip Bites: Transform the classic spinach and artichoke dip into portable, crispy bites. Encased in a phyllo dough shell, these appetizers offer a delightful crunch with a creamy, cheesy center.

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: Kick things up a notch with these jalapenos stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar, then wrapped in crispy bacon. These spicy, savory treats are always a crowd-pleaser.

Mini Meatball Sliders: These mini beef meatballs are seasoned to perfection and served on slider buns with a dollop of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Perfect for game day or any casual gathering.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs

Main Courses:

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Transform your dinner table with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. The addition of onions and garlic brings a depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of cheese on top adds a delightful finish. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked. Serve with a side of salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in the creamy goodness of Chicken Alfredo. This classic Italian dish features tender chicken breast pieces sautéed to perfection and tossed in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. The sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats every strand of fettuccine pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper for an elegant touch. Pair with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, gooey chocolate core that oozes out with every bite. The exterior is perfectly baked to a slight crisp, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious and satisfying end to their meal.

Tiramisu: Experience the classic Italian delight of Tiramisu. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers are nestled between rich, creamy mascarpone cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The dessert is dusted with a generous layer of cocoa powder, adding a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness. For an extra twist, consider adding a splash of coffee liqueur or a hint of vanilla to the mascarpone mixture. Serve chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This sophisticated dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why trust this Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese and cream cheese. The addition of jalapenos gives it a spicy kick that elevates the dish. The use of worcestershire sauce and kosher salt ensures a well-seasoned meatball. With clear instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Share your thoughts on the Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How spicy are these jalapeno popper stuffed meatballs?

The spiciness really depends on the jalapenos you use. If you want them milder, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before adding them to the meatballs.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and cream cheese are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and stuff them with cheese and jalapenos, then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are pretty versatile. You can serve them with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or even a simple salad. They also make great appetizers on their own.

Can I cook these meatballs in a different way?

Sure thing! If you prefer, you can cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they're browned and cooked through. Just make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly.