Mexicali Tamale Balls Mexican Meatballs in Sauce

Infused with bold Mexican flavors and hearty ingredients, these Mexicali Tamale Balls—Mexican meatballs in a rich, zesty sauce—are an irresistible fusion of comfort food and authentic taste. Crafted from a blend of ground beef and pork, these tender, masa harina-infused meatballs are seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and garlic for a smoky, savory punch. Simmered to perfection in a tangy tomato-based sauce featuring green chilies, oregano, and a touch of sweetness, this dish offers a satisfying balance of spice and warmth. Ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these versatile meatballs can be served over rice, with warm tortillas, or as a standout appetizer. Ready in just an hour, this Mexican-inspired recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a flavorful twist to your table!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 0.5 pound ground pork
• 0.5 cup masa harina
• 1 large egg
• 0.25 cup milk
• 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 4 ounces diced green chilies
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, masa harina, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.

Step 2

Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs, about 20-24 in total, and set aside on a plate.

Step 3

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and sear on all sides until lightly browned. Remove meatballs and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken or beef broth, diced green chilies, oregano, sugar, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine.

Step 5

Bring the sauce to a simmer and return the seared meatballs to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2021.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2399.1

Total Fat 169.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 56.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 19.1g
Cholesterol 750.3mg	0%
Sodium 5594.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 73.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.5g	0%
Total Sugars 34.1g
Protein 155.0g	0%

Vitamin D 80.6IU	0%
Calcium 421.4mg	0%
Iron 18.6mg	0%
Potassium 2840.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 62.5%

Protein: 25.4%

Carbs: 12.1%