There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of spicy meatballs bubbling away in the oven, especially when they’re topped with a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese. When I whipped up these Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs, I was on a mission to create a weeknight dinner that skipped the takeout and delivered serious flavor.
Picture this: juicy meatballs infused with smoky spices, surrounded by a zesty fire-roasted tomato sauce, and finished off with a medley of black beans and poblano peppers. I couldn’t believe how easy it was—just pop everything on a sheet pan and let the oven do the work!
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just looking to shake up your dinner routine, these meatballs are sure to impress without the fuss. Join me in the kitchen, and let’s bring some heartwarming homemade goodness back to the table!
Why are Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: Simply toss everything on a sheet pan, and you’re golden!
Bold, zesty flavors: The combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a symphony of taste.
Crowd-pleaser: These meatballs are perfect for gatherings, pleasing both kids and adults alike!
Versatile options: Serve them with rice, tacos, or even as sliders for a fun twist.
Time-saving: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, busy weeknights just got a whole lot easier.
Make dinner a breeze tonight with these flavorful meatballs, and explore more delicious recipes in our easy dinner ideas.
Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground beef or chicken – This forms the heart of the meatballs; choose your favorite for flavor.
• Large egg – Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs juicy and together.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Provides a light texture for fluffy meatballs; you can swap for regular breadcrumbs if needed.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth; finely chopping ensures even flavor distribution.
• Chili powder – Brings heat and earthiness, perfect for enhancing the chili cheese flavor.
• Garlic powder – Delivers a rich garlicky taste without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness; it’s a must-have for that extra flavor kick.
• Cumin – Adds warm, nutty notes that mesh beautifully with the other spices.
• Cayenne pepper – A pinch is all you need for a spicy punch; adjust to taste if you’re feeling bold.
• Kosher salt – Essential for amplifying the flavors in the meatballs.
For the Sauce
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes – This is the secret to a rich, smoky sauce that ties everything together.
• Tomato paste – Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor; a little goes a long way.
• Poblano pepper – Adds a mild heat and a fresh twist to the sauce, chopped small for even cooking.
• Black beans – Offers a hearty texture and extra protein; ensure they’re drained for the best results.
• Pickled jalapeños – Provides tangy heat; can be swapped out for fresh jalapeños if desired.
For Topping
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully over the meatballs, enhancing the chili cheese experience.
• Cold salted butter – A few slices around the meatballs ensures they bake to golden perfection.
These Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs are not just a meal; they’re an experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Make Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs
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Preheat the oven to 450°F. Grease a baking sheet with oil or butter to prevent sticking, creating a non-stick surface for your juicy meatballs.
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Mix together the ground beef, panko, egg, half of the chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Shape this flavorful mixture into large tablespoon-sized balls—aim for about 15-16 meatballs—then place them on your prepared baking sheet. Surround each meatball with slices of cold salted butter for an even taste.
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Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they’re nice and crispy on the outside yet still slightly undercooked inside. This will keep them juicy!
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Prepare the sauce by combining the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, remaining chopped onions, tomato paste, poblano pepper, black beans, and pickled jalapeños in a bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and mix it all together—this zesty sauce will perfectly complement the meatballs.
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Combine the meatballs and sauce by removing the pan from the oven, then pouring the sauce over the meatballs. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Finish baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. It’s time to serve these delightful meatballs warm, and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food even on the busiest days. You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and rolling them into balls, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just mix the fire-roasted tomatoes, onion, poblano pepper, black beans, and pickled jalapeños as detailed in the recipe. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply place the meatballs on a baking sheet, pour over the sauce, top with cheese, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade meatballs that are just as tasty as when freshly made, all with minimal day-of effort!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs?
Looking to create a delightful dinner ensemble that pairs perfectly with these cheesy, spicy meatballs?
- Fluffy Rice: The gentle texture of fluffy rice balances the bold flavors, soaking up the luscious sauce and creating a satisfying bite.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Golden, crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the saucy goodness, making every meal feel like a cozy gathering.
- Zesty Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy element, cutting through the richness of the meatballs while enhancing the overall meal.
- Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted vegetables provide a wonderful contrast, bringing sweetness and depth that complements the hearty meatballs beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes are an ultimate comfort food pairing, offering a mellow backdrop that lets the meatballs shine.
- Bubbly Mac and Cheese: For those seeking indulgence, creamy mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to turn any dinner into a celebration!
- Chilled Wine: A light, chilled white wine or a fruity red can elevate the meal experience, offering refreshing notes that balance the spice.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the feast on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies, delivering a homey finish everyone will love.
Each of these suggestions will beautifully enhance the heartwarming experience of your Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs!
Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs Variations
Get ready to elevate your meal with these exciting swaps and twists!
- Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option while still packed with flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add extra diced jalapeños or use spicy tomato sauce to turn up the heat in every bite!
- Quinoa Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa with the meat to add texture and a healthy grain alternative.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with lentils and finely chopped mushrooms, binding with flaxseed meal for plant-based goodness.
- Creamy Cheese: Swap shredded cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a creamy, spicy kick that’ll melt in your mouth.
- Herbed Version: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley mixed into the meat create a fragrant twist that elevates every bite.
- BBQ Flare: Substitute the fire-roasted tomatoes with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor profile that’s irresistible.
- Crispy Topping: Toss crushed tortilla chips on top of the cheese prior to baking for a crunchy and fun texture contrast!
Unlock endless possibilities with these variations and savor the delights of your own culinary creativity!
Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs
- Meat Choice: Use ground beef for richer flavor or chicken for a lighter option. Both work well, so pick your favorite!
- Temperature Control: Watch the baking time closely; overbaking can lead to dry meatballs. Aim for a perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Even Cooking: Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for consistent cooking—not too big or small, about the size of a golf ball works best.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust the cayenne pepper and pickled jalapeños to match your spice tolerance—don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Cheese Goodness: For extra flavor, try mixing different cheeses like Monterey Jack or adding a sprinkle of parmesan before serving!
- Serving Ideas: Serve these Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs with warm tortillas, over rice, or as sliders for a fun twist.
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to include some sauce to keep them moist.
Freezer: Freeze individual meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This allows for easy portioning later!
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, covering with a damp paper towel for moisture.
Thawing: If thawing, do so overnight in the fridge for the best texture before reheating or baking. Enjoy these Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs whenever the craving hits!
Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for the meatballs?
You can use either ground beef or ground chicken depending on your preference. Beef will give you a richer, more savory flavor, while chicken offers a lighter option. Both options work beautifully in these meatballs, so feel free to choose your favorite!
How long can I store leftover meatballs?
Store your leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to include some of the fire-roasted tomato sauce with the meatballs to keep them moist and flavorful.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze your Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last up to 3 months. This method makes it super easy to grab just what you need later!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen meatballs?
For optimal results, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them, but cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, which helps keep them juicy!
Are these meatballs suitable for pets or people with allergies?
While these meatballs are delicious for humans, it’s essential to be cautious with certain ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to pets. Always check for any allergies among guests and consider alternatives to common allergens, such as gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked perfectly?
You want to achieve a golden-brown exterior with a slightly undercooked center initially, followed by a finish bake with the sauce and cheese. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for ground chicken or 160°F for ground beef. Even if they seem a bit firm before the final round, they will continue to cook in the oven while the cheese melts, ensuring they remain juicy!
Sheet Pan Chili Cheese Meatballs for Easy Dinner Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450°F. Grease a baking sheet with oil or butter.
- Mix together the ground beef, panko, egg, half of the chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Shape into large balls and place on the baking sheet. Surround with slices of butter.
- Bake the meatballs for 15 minutes, or until crispy on the outside.
- Prepare the sauce by combining the diced tomatoes, remaining onions, tomato paste, poblano pepper, black beans, and jalapeños. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs and top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.