Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup spicy tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg. I always crack the egg last, just like Mama Lou taught me, to keep the mixture light.
- Add the chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat; tender meatballs are the best.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut. This step always brings back memories of my sister Ouma and me racing to see who could make the most perfectly round meatballs.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the meatballs carefully, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Fry the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning gently so they brown evenly and develop a nice crust. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re deep golden and cooked through.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Pour the spicy tomato sauce into the skillet and warm it gently over low heat.
- Add the meatballs back into the skillet with the sauce. Let them simmer together for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully. This was Mama Lou’s secret for keeping the meatballs moist and flavorful.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of queso fresco if you like.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
