Slow Cooker Enchilada Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
These slow cooker enchilada meatballs are a simple and savory dish perfect for busy days. Combining tender meatballs with zesty enchilada sauce and a touch of cheese, they make a satisfying meal or appetizer that’s effortless to prepare.
Ingredients
- 28 oz frozen meatballs
- 28 oz enchilada sauce
- 10 oz Rotel, drained
- 1/2 cup Fiesta blend cheese, shredded
- Optional: fresh diced cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the frozen meatballs, enchilada sauce, and drained Rotel to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Step 2: Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and flavors meld.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the meatballs. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Step 4: Optional: Garnish with fresh diced cilantro before serving. Serve the meatballs over rice for a main dish or with toothpicks as a fun party appetizer.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, use a hot enchilada sauce or add chopped jalapeños to the slow cooker.
- Substitute ground beef or turkey meatballs if you prefer homemade over frozen.
- Serve with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for a Tex-Mex inspired meal.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade meatballs work great. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker to avoid overcooking during the slow cook time.
What can I serve with enchilada meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, tortilla chips, or wrapped in warm tortillas. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
PrintSlow Cooker Enchilada Meatballs Recipe
Slow Cooker Enchilada Meatballs are a deliciously easy and flavorful dish made by simmering frozen meatballs in rich enchilada sauce with Rotel tomatoes, then topped with melted Fiesta blend cheese. Perfect as a comforting meal served over rice or as a fun appetizer with toothpicks, this recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker favorite that brings Mexican-inspired flavors to your table with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 5 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes to 5 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 28 oz frozen meatballs
- 28 oz enchilada sauce
- 10 oz Rotel (drained)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup Fiesta blend cheese, shredded
- Optional: fresh diced cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the frozen meatballs, enchilada sauce, and drained Rotel tomatoes. This forms the rich and tangy base for your enchilada meatballs.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to heat thoroughly.
- Add Cheese: After cooking, sprinkle the shredded Fiesta blend cheese evenly over the top of the meatballs. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh diced cilantro for a bright, fresh note. Serve the enchilada meatballs over rice for a complete meal or offer as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.
Notes
- Using frozen meatballs saves prep time and they cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Make sure to drain the Rotel tomatoes to avoid excess liquid in the slow cooker.
- Feel free to substitute the Fiesta blend cheese with your favorite Mexican cheese blend.
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper before cooking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or slow cooker.
Keywords: enchilada meatballs, slow cooker recipes, easy Mexican recipes, meatballs, crowd-pleaser appetizers, slow cooker dinner
