These juicy, cheese-filled albóndigas (Mexican meatballs) simmered in a flavorful salsa roja are perfect for a comforting meal! Serve them with rice, tortillas, or beans for a classic homemade dish.

Ingredients:

For the Albóndigas (Meatballs):

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

½ cup bread crumbs (or crushed crackers)

1 large egg

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp cumin

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ cup shredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese (for stuffing)

For the Salsa Roja (Red Sauce):

4 Roma tomatoes

2 dried guajillo chiles, seeds removed

1 chipotle pepper in adobo (optional, for smokiness)

2 garlic cloves

¼ white onion

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp chicken bouillon powder (or salt to taste)

2 cups water or broth

1 tbsp vegetable oil

For Topping:

Extra shredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese

Chopped fresh cilantro

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