Jalapeño Popper Meatballs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheese, jalapeños, bacon, and green onions — this is your filling.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the ground meats, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Scoop some of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, and add a small dollop of the cream cheese filling to the center.
5. Wrap the meat around the filling completely and roll into a ball.
6. Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
8. Whisk together the glaze ingredients.
9. Brush the hot meatballs generously with the glaze and broil 2–3 minutes until caramelized and sticky.

Variations

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra spice.
• Use ground pork for the juiciest texture.
• Add diced green chiles for a milder heat.
• Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a full meal.

Tips

• Wet your hands while rolling meatballs — it keeps them smooth and helps prevent sticking.
• Don’t overfill; a small amount of cream cheese filling is enough for a melty center.
• Broil just until glossy to avoid burning the glaze.
• Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip for the perfect creamy-cool contrast.