Smoky Chipotle Fiesta Meatballs

Chipotle Appetizer Meatballs Recipe

Overview:

Enjoy the zesty flavors of the Southwest with these delectable Chipotle Appetizer Meatballs! Perfect for entertaining or as a weeknight treat, these meatballs are bursting with savory goodness. The smoky heat of chipotle peppers combined with aromatic spices makes every bite a delight. Serve them as a party appetizer or alongside your favorite side dishes for a memorable meal.

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 366.8

Ingredients:

• 1 onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
• 1/4 pound ground beef
• 1/4 pound ground pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce:

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   • Heat a splash of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they turn lightly browned and fragrant.

2. Add Flavor to the Sauce:

   • Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and chipotle chiles in adobo sauce. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

3. Simmer the Sauce:

   • Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

4. Blend the Sauce:

   • Transfer the sauce to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

5. Prepare the Meatballs Mixture:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, fresh cilantro, bread crumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.

6. Form the Meatballs:

   • Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

7. Brown the Meatballs:

   • Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides until cooked through. Remove the browned meatballs from the pan and drain them on paper towels.

8. Combine Sauce and Meatballs:

   • Return the blended sauce to the saucepan. Carefully add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

9. Serve:

   • Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a chafing dish for serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot, accompanied by toothpicks for easy snacking.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 366.8
• Fat Content: 23.3g
• Saturated Fat Content: 8.2g
• Cholesterol Content: 118.5mg
• Sodium Content: 441.9mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 10.1g
• Fiber Content: 1.1g
• Sugar Content: 2.8g
• Protein Content: 28g

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier kick, add more chipotle chiles in adobo sauce to the meatball mixture.
• Serve these meatballs as a main course over cooked rice or pasta for a hearty meal.
• Make a double batch and freeze the extra meatballs for quick and easy appetizers whenever you need them.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the meatballs to your liking.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Drizzle some lime juice over the meatballs before serving for a refreshing citrus twist.

With their irresistible combination of smoky chipotle flavor and tender meat, these Chipotle Appetizer Meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy the bold flavors of the Southwest in every bite 🌶️🍽️.