Cheesy Taco Meatballs are a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun taco filling. Low carb and gluten free, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or weeknight dinners.
If you love bold, cheesy flavors with a touch of heat, these Cheesy Taco Meatballs are for you. They combine savory pork sausage with cream cheese, shredded cheddar and green chilies, all seasoned with taco spices and finished in hot sauce. The result is tender, bite-sized meatballs with a creamy, spicy center that works equally well on a toothpick as an appetizer or tucked into a warm tortilla for a quick taco night.
I often make big batches for gatherings — whether it’s a football party, a holiday get-together, or a casual weekend with friends. They’re easy to prepare, hold well on a buffet, and can be kept warm in a covered skillet or Dutch oven. If you like a bit more heat, increase the hot sauce or use spicy sausage; for a milder crowd, choose mild sausage and a gentler sauce.
How to Make Taco Meatballs
These meatballs are straightforward and fast. In a large bowl, combine pork sausage, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced green chilies and taco seasoning. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Form the mixture into 18–20 uniform meatballs so they cook consistently. Sear them in a hot skillet until browned on all sides, then pour your chosen hot sauce over the meatballs, cover and simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and infused with sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork sausage (mild, hot, or a 50/50 mix)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz diced green chilies
- 1/4 cup taco seasoning (use store-bought or your favorite homemade blend)
- 12 oz hot sauce (adjust amount and heat to taste)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the pork sausage, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced green chilies and taco seasoning. Mix gently until uniform.
- Shape the mixture into 18–20 evenly sized meatballs.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side, until nicely seared.
- Once browned, pour the hot sauce over the meatballs, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld.
- Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, spooned into tortillas for tacos, or alongside rice and corn for a complete meal.
What to Serve with Taco Meatballs
These meatballs are versatile. Serve them as a finger-food appetizer with toothpicks and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For a heartier option, tuck them into soft tortillas with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream and extra cheddar. They also pair well with Mexican-style rice, grilled or roasted corn (Mexican street corn-style toppings complement the spice), or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian option: Substitute 2 lbs of soyrizo or a plant-based sausage alternative for the pork sausage. The texture and flavor will be different but still delicious.
- Low carb/Keto: These meatballs are already a great low-carb choice. Serve with lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas for a complete low-carb meal.
- Adjusting spice: The final heat level depends on both the sausage and the hot sauce. Use mild sausage and a milder sauce for less heat, or choose spicy sausage and hot sauce for more kick.
- Binding & texture: If the mixture feels too loose to shape, chilling it for 10–15 minutes in the fridge helps firm it up so the meatballs hold their shape when searing.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional sauce if they seem dry. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts (per meatball, approximate)
- Calories: 226 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 57 mg
- Sodium: 960 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
These Cheesy Taco Meatballs are an adaptable, flavorful recipe you’ll come back to again and again. They’re quick to assemble, crowd-friendly, and easy to tweak for heat level or dietary preferences. Try making a double batch for gatherings — they disappear fast!
Author: Whitney Bond