DELISH One-pot Enchilada Meatballs (gluten-free)

These Enchilada Meatballs are full of everything you know and love about enchiladas. Except they are twist on the classic with this meatball version. Made with all gluten-free ingredients for an easy one-pot kind of meal.

Incase you haven’t noticed yet, I am big on meatballs over here. They are so versatile, there are so many ways to make them. And these Enchilada meatballs are an absolute favorite. 

I love this twist on enchiladas. These meatballs are filled with flavor, they’re gluten-free, simmered in enchilada sauce and topped with ooey gooey melted cheese. There is something about this combo that just gets me every single time. And I love that you can really use any ground meat you want for them. I typically do either beef, chicken or turkey. You can use anything you are craving – even a combo!

Also what is amazing about these is how easy they are to make. They are another delish one-pot meal that doesn’t dirty up your entire kitchen. I cannot stand dirtying more than one pot/pan plus baking sheets, cutting boards, the works! Just to make one recipe.

This recipe is a fam favorite. And while it is absolutely not something you find at a Mexican restaurant, it is a fun twist on the dish we all know and love – enchiladas!

I can’t wait to hear what you think of these – let me know if you try them!

What ingredients you need to make Enchilada Meatballs:

• Ground meat – you can use beef, turkey or chicken. Totally up to you – I have made these with each of those and they’re all delicious in this recipe.
• Almond flour – or use a breadcrumb/panko if you’re not gluten-free. Also crushed up gf crackers can work well too
• Egg – I haven’t tried an egg sub
• Garlic – I like using fresh garlic for these
• Cilantro – fresh cilantro in the meatballs and on top – so good!
• Chili powder, cumin, oregano – with some sea salt and black pepper I use for spices
• Olive oil – or use avocado oil if you prefer
• Onion – I use a sweet white onion in these
• Enchilada sauce – you can use homemade sauce if you have a go-to recipe too
• Black beans – I love adding for extra protein and fiber
• Frozen or fresh corn kernels – I usually use organic frozen corn
• Cheddar cheese or manchego cheese – either variety works well here
• Topping: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, chips

How to make these easy Enchilada Meatballs:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, almond flour, egg, garlic, cilantro and spices then form into meatballs (about 2 inches in diameter)
2. In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil
3. Add the meatballs to skillet and cook to internal temperature of 165 degrees F (about 4-5 minutes on each side)
4. Remove meatballs from skillet and transfer to plate
5. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to skillet and cook onion for about 5 minutes or until soft
6. Then stir in enchilada sauce, black beans and corn and bring to a simmer
7. Add the meatballs back into skillet, tossing them in sauce
8. Top meatballs with cheese then bake until cheese is melted
9. I like to broil for 30 seconds or so to get the cheese bubbly
10. Garnish with avocado and cilantro and enjoy with tortillas, rice, quinoa, anything you’d like!

FAQs and tips on making Enchilada Meatballs:

1. Do I have to cook the meatballs on the stovetop and in the oven? You don’t have to add to oven if you don’t want to. Just cover skillet with lid and cook on low heat so the cheese melts. You do need the stovetop to make the sauce after the meatballs brown a bit anyways.
2. Can I prep these ahead of time? Yes! Assemble meatballs and add to fridge covered for a few hours or until you cook them. The cooler the meatballs are, the better they stay together.
3. How should I store leftovers? In the fridge in airtight container for 5 days. Or in the freezer for 2 months. I like to thaw them overnight in fridge then pop into oven or microwave to warm up.
4. What should I serve with these? Rice, quinoa, tortillas, veggies, anything you’d like!

A few other Mexican-inspired dishes to try:

Easy Burrito Casserole (gluten-free)

DELISH Sheet Pan Quesadillas

Easy Crispy Baked Tacos (gluten-free)

Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza (gluten-free)