Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatballs: A Flavorful Delight

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 0.5 pound ground pork
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 whole jalapenos, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• to taste salt and pepper
• as needed cooking oil for frying
• optional fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapenos until well blended. This is your stuffing for the meatballs.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. To form the meatballs, take a handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Add about a tablespoon of the jalapeno cheese mixture in the center, then carefully fold the meat around it to form a ball. Make sure the cheese filling is completely encased in the meat. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
5. Roll the stuffed meatballs in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
6. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of cooking oil. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs (in batches if necessary), cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they're browned.
7. Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.