When you need a dinner that doesn't require a lot of hands on work try these enchilada meatballs!

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Are you searching for a delicious and hassle-free dinner idea that will satisfy your Mexican food craving? Look no further than the mouthwatering world of enchilada meatballs. Cheesy, easy, and oh-so flavorful!

Enchilada meatballs cooked in a cast iron skillet.

This great recipe combines the classic flavors of enchiladas with the convenience of meatballs, resulting in an incredibly versatile dish that’s not only easy to make. Whether planning a weeknight dinner for the family, hosting a party, or just looking for a quick meal on busy nights, these enchilada meatballs have got you covered.

Cheesy enchilada meatballs cooked in a skillet.

With their adaptability, these cheesy Mexican meatballs suit a variety of diets and preferences while maintaining the essence of classic enchiladas. From the cheesy, sauce-soaked meatballs to the customizable serving options, this dish truly offers the best of both worlds.

A bowl of ingredients for enchilada meatballs on a marble table.

What you need to make Cheesy Enchilada Meatballs

The meatball ingredients are mostly pantry staples, you won’t need to go to the grocery store.

ground beef
onion
milk
Panko bread crumbs
quick oats
egg
chili powder
cumin
paprika
oregano
red enchilada sauce, mild enchilada sauce or spicy your choice if you make homemade enchilada sauce feel free to use it as well
shredded cheese, cheddar cheese, or a blend, your preference
large bowl
9×9 baking pan or cast iron skillet

For serving:

Hot Rice or tortillas
Cilantro
Tomatoes or pico de gallo or salsa
Avocado

Enchilada meatballs cooked in a skillet.

Versatility is Key

But the charm of enchilada meatballs lies not only in their creation but also in their versatility. They can be served in various ways, accommodating different dietary preferences. Layer them over a bed of white rice, Mexican rice, cilantro lime rice, refried beans or black beans. Try polenta for a fun variation! Serving them over something makes them a hearty meal.

If you’re looking for another way to enjoy enchiladas, try these Enchilada Sliders or these Smothered Burritos. Both options are tasty and delicious ways to get the flavor of enchiladas without the work.

Enchilada meatballs served with rice and tomatoes.

Need low-carb enchilada meatballs? Try them over cauliflower rice or fresh greens to keep it low-carb.

You can also wrap them in a tortilla for a handheld wrap, fill it up with lettuce and shredded cheese, and roll it up. It’s super easy for lunch or dinner on the run.

For freshness, top with your favorite garnishes like diced tomatoes, pico de gallo, or salsa verde. Creamy avocado and tangy sour cream are perfect companions that complete the ensemble. Greek yogurt makes a great topping, too. And, of course, adding a pinch of crumbled tortilla chips is a fun and easy topping, too.

A bowl of enchilada meatballs with rice, topped with tomatoes.

Cheesy Enchiladas for Dinner and Beyond

This easy recipe joins the ranks of my other easy recipes, such as my chicken fajita casserole or my creamy ranch chicken skillet. Or try this super simple recipe for Greek turkey meatballs, so easy and delicious!

Thinking beyond the dinner plate, enchilada meatballs become the perfect appetizer or party food. Their handheld nature makes them ideal for gatherings – serve them with toothpicks, and watch them disappear quickly. Serve them next to a bowl of corn chips

A bowl of enchilada meatballs with vegetables.

Make them in the slow cooker

You’re in luck if you’re looking for a slow cooker option. Transform this recipe into slow cooker enchilada meatballs for an effortlessly satisfying dish that simmers to perfection and is totally hands-off. Just prep the meatballs, place them in the slow cooker on top of some enchilada sauce, and top with the remaining sauce. Cook on low or high until the meatballs are cooked through. Top with cheese and serve over hot rice when the cheese is melted.

A bowl of enchilada meatballs with rice and vegetables.

Swap out the ground beef

You can swap out the beef for ground turkey or ground chicken. Remember that both of those are ground poultry. Turkey or chicken meatballs are much less solid than beef meatballs but once baked they make a great meatball.

Got Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for the next day’s lunch or dinner. The meatballs retain their flavors remarkably well, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping. They’re also a hit with kids, which means they’re a hit with the whole family!