Dorito Meatballs
Dorito Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic favorite, mixing the crunchy, cheesy flavor of Doritos right into the meatballs. These little bites are packed with bold tastes and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Dorito Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic favorite, mixing the crunchy, cheesy flavor of Doritos right into the meatballs. These little bites are packed with bold tastes and a crispy texture that makes every bite exciting and satisfying. They’re perfect for when you want something a bit different but still familiar and comforting.
I love making these because they’re super easy and a real crowd-pleaser. The Doritos add a fun crunch and cheesy zing that I don’t get from regular meatballs. Plus, I like to use a spicy chip flavor to give the meatballs a little kick, but you can pick whatever kind you like best. It’s a simple way to add extra flavor without any extra fuss.
My favorite way to serve Dorito Meatballs is with a cool ranch dipping sauce or tucked into a soft bun for a quick snack or party treat. They’re especially great for game days or casual get-togethers because everyone loves something a little crunchy and cheesy. These meatballs make snack time feel special and a bit more exciting for me and my friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using a mix of beef and pork can make the meatballs juicier and more flavorful, but plain ground beef works well too. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken.
Doritos: Choose a bold flavor like Nacho Cheese or Spicy Nacho to add extra taste and crunch. Substitute with crushed cheese crackers or tortilla chips if Doritos aren’t available.
Breadcrumbs: These help hold the meatballs together and add texture. If you want gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground oats.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle salty, nutty note. You can skip it or use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Barbecue sauce: This adds a tangy, sweet glaze that complements the Doritos well. Feel free to swap with your favorite tomato sauce or even a hot sauce for extra spice.
How Do I Keep Meatballs Tender and Not Dry?
The secret to tender meatballs is mixing and baking properly:
- Mix ingredients gently to avoid toughening the meat.
- Incorporate milk and egg to add moisture and bind the mix.
- Shape meatballs evenly to ensure they cook through at the same time.
- Bake at a moderate temperature (375°F / 190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness without overcooking.
These steps keep meatballs juicy, soft, and full of flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for baking the meatballs evenly without extra oil.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to mix all ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your seasoning balanced.
- Food processor or plastic bag – handy for crushing the Doritos finely and evenly.
- Small saucepan – to warm the barbecue or tomato sauce for coating.
- Toothpicks – great for serving the meatballs as easy finger food.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Swap the barbecue sauce for a creamy ranch or blue cheese dip for a cool contrast.
- Mix in some finely diced bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
How to Make Dorito Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup crushed Doritos (any strong-flavored variety like Nacho Cheese or Spicy Nacho)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce and Garnish:
- 2 cups barbecue sauce or your favorite tomato-based sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking. You’ll need a few extra minutes to warm the sauce and coat the meatballs. All in all, around 30 minutes from start to finish for a tasty snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, crushed Doritos (hold back about 1/4 cup for later), breadcrumbs if you’re using them, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix just until everything comes together—don’t overwork the meat.
2. Shape and Bake the Meatballs:
Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches wide. Place them on your baking sheet evenly spaced. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re cooked through and nicely browned.
3. Warm, Coat, and Serve:
While baking, warm your barbecue or favorite tomato sauce on low heat in a saucepan. When the meatballs are done, carefully put them into the sauce and stir gently so they’re all coated. Then, roll or sprinkle the meatballs with the reserved crushed Doritos for a crunchy cheesy outside. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating.
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before coating and baking. This helps ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
What If I Don’t Have Doritos? Can I Use Something Else?
Absolutely! You can substitute with crushed cheese crackers, tortilla chips, or seasoned panko breadcrumbs to add similar crunch and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave, and add a splash of sauce if they seem dry.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help the flavors meld and saves time on the day you want to serve them.
