If you’re craving something irresistibly flavorful and delightfully comforting, you have to try this Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls Recipe. These golden, fluffy dough balls are packed full of a spicy, smoky chili filling that bursts with warmth and a hint of cheesy goodness if you choose to add it. Coated with a luscious garlic butter glaze, each bite is like a cozy hug — perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking one at a time when no one’s watching. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a delicious snack to spice up your day, these dough balls offer a fantastic balance of heat, heartiness, and heavenly garlic aroma you won’t soon forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, with ingredients that are simple yet incredibly essential. Each component plays a starring role, whether it’s the tender, elastic dough, the savory and spicy filling, or the buttery garlic glaze that ties everything together perfectly.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that makes the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast and helps create the perfect dough texture.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness balancing the spice.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for your dough, providing structure and softness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor in the dough and filling.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
- 1 egg (optional for egg wash): Gives the dough balls a gorgeous golden finish.
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or ground turkey (optional): Adds a hearty, meaty twist to the chili filling.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Provides creaminess and texture within the filling.
- 1-2 fresh chillies, finely chopped: Personalizes the heat level with fresh spicy kick.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Boosts the chili flavor with warm goodness.
- ½ teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness that deepens the filling’s complexity.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Contributes gentle smokiness to balance the spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every bite perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Thickens and intensifies the rich flavor of the filling.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts beautifully inside for cheesy indulgence.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Forms the base of the irresistible garlic butter coating.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fresh and punchy garlic flavor on the surface.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, herbaceous note to the garlic butter.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the garlic butter’s richness.
How to Make Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by activating your yeast: combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Wait for about 5 to 10 minutes until it froths up, showing that the yeast is alive and ready to work magic in your dough. This step is key for achieving that fluffy texture everyone loves.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until the dough begins to form. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and knead with care and patience for about 5 to 7 minutes until your dough is smooth and elastic to the touch. This kneading builds gluten, the secret behind the perfect chew.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl and place your dough inside. Cover with a kitchen towel and nestle it in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Watch as it doubles in size — this is your cue that the dough is beautifully aerated and ready to be stuffed.
Step 4: Prepare the Chilli Filling
While the dough rises, heat a skillet and sauté ground meat if using, letting it brown perfectly. Toss in your chopped fresh chillies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Then stir in tomato paste and kidney beans, cooking everything until flavors harmonize beautifully. Let it cool before stirring in the optional cheddar cheese for an irresistible melty surprise.
Step 5: Shape and Stuff the Dough Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prep a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a disk, add a generous scoop of your chili filling, and seal the edges carefully to trap all the spicy goodness inside. Place the dough balls on the tray, giving them space to puff up.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Mix melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. This fragrant mixture will crown your dough balls post-baking, elevating their flavor to the next level.
Step 7: Bake and Finish
If you love a golden crust, brush your dough balls with an egg wash before baking. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until golden and cooked through. While still warm, brush them generously with your garlic butter to infuse every bite with that enchanting garlic aroma.
How to Serve Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or finely chopped green onions make excellent garnishes that brighten these dough balls visually and add a fresh pop of flavor. A sprinkle of chili flakes can further amplify the heat if you’re sharing with spice lovers.
Side Dishes
These dough balls pair perfectly with cooling sides like a creamy ranch dip or a tangy yogurt-based sauce to balance the spiciness. A fresh green salad or a bowl of soup can also complement the hearty and spicy flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange the stuffed dough balls on a large platter surrounded by colorful dipping sauces — think smoky chipotle mayo, simple marinara, or a zesty cilantro chutney. You can even serve them skewered on sticks for an easy party-friendly option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover chilli stuffed garlic dough balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or lunch on the go.
Freezing
If you want to keep these delightful bites longer, freeze them before baking by placing the raw stuffed dough balls on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 1 month.
Reheating
To enjoy reheated dough balls, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes if baked previously, until warmed through and crisp on the outside. If frozen raw, bake directly from the freezer with a few extra minutes added to the baking time.
FAQs
Can I make the filling vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground meat and use beans or lentils as your protein base. For a vegan twist, skip the cheese and use a plant-based alternative or add extra vegetables and spices for a flavorful punch.
How spicy are the chilli stuffed dough balls?
The heat level is highly adjustable! Use one chilli for mild warmth or add two or more for a fiery kick. The spices also add layers of flavor, so you can tailor this recipe to suit your heat preference easily.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, you can make the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and stuffing the dough balls for the best results.
Is it necessary to use egg wash?
The egg wash is optional but highly recommended if you want that eye-catching golden brown color on top. If you prefer, you can skip it and still have delicious dough balls with a softer crust.
What can I serve with these dough balls for a full meal?
A fresh salad, some roasted veggies, or a hearty soup pairs beautifully with these dough balls. Since they’re quite filling on their own, pairing them with lighter fare creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls Recipe is a joyful celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures wrapped into one bite-sized treat. I can’t wait for you to discover the magic of fluffy dough enclosing a spicy, smoky filling kissed by garlic butter. Whether you’re baking these for a casual get-together or a cozy night in, they promise to be a deliciously memorable experience worth savoring. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every blissful bite!
Print
Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 dough balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Chilli Stuffed Garlic Dough Balls are a delicious and savory treat featuring soft, fluffy dough filled with a spicy chili mixture made from kidney beans, fresh chilies, and aromatic spices, optionally enriched with ground meat and melted cheese. Baked to golden perfection and brushed with a flavorful garlic butter, these dough balls make an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish, packed with bold flavors and delightful textures.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Chilli Filling
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or ground turkey (optional for a meaty filling)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or black beans)
- 1–2 fresh chillies, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy filling)
Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Cook the Meat (Optional): In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. If using meat, add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Spices and Chillies: Add the chopped fresh chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Simmer with Tomato Paste and Beans: Add the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the flavors meld. Stir in the kidney beans and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Mix in Cheese: Once cooled, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Set aside.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Stuff the Dough Balls: Flatten each piece of dough into a small disk and place a spoonful of the chili filling in the center. Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing the edges to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and salt.
- Apply Egg Wash (Optional): Optionally, brush the tops of the dough balls with an egg wash (a beaten egg) for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough balls are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: Once baked, immediately brush the hot dough balls with the garlic butter mixture to infuse them with rich garlic flavor.
- Serve: Let the garlic dough balls cool slightly before serving. They are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a meal!
Notes
- You can omit the meat and cheese for a vegetarian version using just beans and spices.
- Adjust the number of fresh chillies to control the heat level of the filling.
- The garlic butter can be prepared in advance to save time.
- Ensure the dough is well-kneaded for a fluffy texture.
- Egg wash is optional but recommended for a shiny, golden crust.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
