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Cowboy Meatballs Recipe

These Cowboy Meatballs are hearty, smoky, and cheesy — a fun twist on classic meatballs! Made with ground beef, green chiles, marinara, and a melted cheddar–Monterey Jack topping, they’re perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with bold Southwest flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Calories: 735

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup finely chopped scallions (from about 3 medium scallions), plus more for garnish
  • 1 large egg
  • 2.5 tsp chili powder, divided
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp ground cumin, divided
  • 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1.5 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 24 oz jar marinara sauce (preferably fire-roasted, about 3 cups)
  • 7 oz can diced green chiles, with juices
  • 0.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 ounces)
  • 0.5 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (about 2 ounces)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 12-inch oven-safe skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Instant-Read Thermometer
  • broiler

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, stir together breadcrumbs, scallions, egg, 1¼ teaspoons chili powder, salt, ½ teaspoon cumin, and black pepper.
  2. Add ground beef and mix until evenly combined; do not overmix. Scoop heaping 2-tablespoon portions and roll into smooth meatballs (22–25 total).
  3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in a single layer and brown for 1½–2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate (they will finish cooking later). Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in marinara sauce, green chiles with juices, remaining chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  6. Arrange oven rack 6 inches from broiler and heat broiler. Sprinkle meatballs evenly with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  7. Broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with sliced scallions and serve warm.

Notes

Make ahead: The meatballs can be shaped and refrigerated raw or cooked up to 2 days in advance, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Garnish with extra scallions for a fresh finish.

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