Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake

There’s nothing quite like the ooey-gooey, savory goodness of a Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake to bring everyone running to the dinner table. This dish combines the bold, spicy flavors of classic enchiladas with juicy, cheesy meatballs, all baked together in one irresistible casserole. It’s quick to make, uses everyday ingredients, and packs serious flavor. Did you know that enchiladas date back to Aztec times? We’ve taken that age-old flavor and wrapped it up in a meatball makeover you’ll love. If you’re a fan of our popular Taco Stuffed Peppers, you’ll find this recipe just as satisfying—and even easier to prep on a weeknight. Get ready for a new family favorite that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

What is Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake?

Ever wondered what happens when taco night meets comfort food? Meet the Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake! It’s everything you love about Mexican flavors, transformed into tender beef meatballs smothered in enchilada sauce and melted cheese. Why the fun twist? Because sometimes, tacos just need to roll with it—literally! This dish puts a playful spin on tradition, proving once again that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Trust us, once you try this, you’ll be hooked. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and turn taco night into meatball magic.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake

Flavor-Packed with Every Bite

The star of the show? Those juicy, seasoned meatballs made with cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, and just the right spices. Add enchilada sauce and melted cheese, and you’ve got a taste sensation that will leave your tastebuds dancing.

Budget-Friendly & Homemade

Skip the expensive takeout and whip up this budget-conscious dish using ground beef and pantry staples. It’s perfect for feeding the whole crew without breaking the bank.

Melty Cheese & Bubbly Sauce

Once baked, the cheese becomes golden and gooey while the enchilada sauce infuses every bite. It’s a simple dish with bold flavor, much like our Chicken Enchilada Skillet—but this version rolls everything into bite-sized fun.

Fire up the oven—it’s time to make dinner exciting again!

How to Make Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake

Quick Overview

This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights. With only 25 minutes of meatball baking time and 15 more minutes to bubble everything together, you can have dinner ready in under an hour. It’s flavorful, fast, and totally satisfying.

Ingredients:

Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup real grated cheddar cheese
• 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Sauce:

• 1/4 cup enchilada sauce (3 gm sugar or less)

Step-by-Step:

Make the Meatballs:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, cheese, taco seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape into 15 meatballs and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Reduce oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour 1/4 cup enchilada sauce into the bottom of a small baking dish or cast iron skillet.
3. Place cooked meatballs into the dish, top with remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle with more shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What to Serve Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake With

This dish is a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Spanish rice, a crisp green salad, or some roasted corn. Want to keep it low-carb? Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps. A side of guacamole or sour cream rounds out the flavors perfectly. Add a glass of sparkling water with lime, and you’ve got dinner done right.

Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake

• Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
• Low-Sugar Sauce: Be sure your enchilada sauce has 3 grams of sugar or less to keep things keto-friendly.
• Prep Ahead: Make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate—they reheat beautifully and save time on busy nights.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes. Want to freeze? Cool the meatballs completely, store them in a freezer-safe dish, and reheat from frozen at 375°F until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work well and lighten things up.

Is this recipe keto-friendly? Yes—just be sure to use a low-sugar enchilada sauce and no added breadcrumbs.

Can I make this in advance? Definitely. Cook and store the meatballs ahead of time, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.

Conclusion

Cheesy Enchilada Meatball Bake is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a fun twist on two favorites that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.