Description
Easy Donkey Balls are flavorful ground beef meatballs mixed with cheddar cheese, spices, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, baked to golden perfection. This simple, crowd-pleasing recipe offers juicy, cheesy meatballs with an optional tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a meal served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, to taste
For Glaze (Optional)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- Additional Worcestershire sauce (a little for mixing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper if using, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, one beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to ensure tender meatballs.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and evenly place them on the prepared baking sheet, allowing space between each for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through and golden brown, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Add Glaze: About 5 minutes before the end of baking, mix ketchup with a little Worcestershire sauce and brush the glaze over the meatballs to add a tangy, shiny finish.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free options if needed.
- For extra moisture and flavor, you can add a splash of milk when mixing ingredients.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are fully cooked to 160°F for safety.
- Optional bell pepper adds freshness but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- The glaze is optional but adds a nice tangy finish that complements the spices.
- These meatballs pair well with pasta, rice, or as a party appetizer with dipping sauces.
