Ricotta Meatballs

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that brings everyone together, these Ricotta Meatballs are just what you need! They are one of my favorite recipes because they combine the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with hearty beef, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, these meatballs can be the star of your dinner table. Plus, they’re super versatile—serve them with pasta, as a sub sandwich filling, or alongside a fresh salad for a delightful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! These are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Hero: Make a big batch and freeze them for quick dinners later on. You’ll thank yourself on those hectic nights!
• Deliciously Flavorful: Packed with herbs and spices, each bite bursts with Italian flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Italy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Ricotta Meatballs. Luckily, these are all simple and wholesome items you probably already have on hand. Let’s take a look!

For the Meatballs

• 32 oz. marinara sauce
• ½ cup olive oil (divided)
• 15 oz. Ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon EACH: dried basil, oregano, parsley
• 1 yellow onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 Egg (whisked)
• ½ cup half and half (can sub cream)
• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup roughly chopped parsley (plus more to garnish)
• 1 teaspoon EACH: Italian seasoning, mustard powder, salt
• ½ teaspoon Pepper
• 1 lb. ground chuck (80% lean)
• ½ lb. ground beef (or ground sausage or veal)

Variations

One of the best parts about Ricotta Meatballs is their flexibility! You can easily tweak them to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still packs great flavor.
• Add some veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change up the cheese: Try adding mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a gooey twist!
• Make them spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like things zesty.

How to Make Ricotta Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating half of your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in the finely diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This step is important because it enhances the sweetness of the onion and forms a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, herbs, whisked egg, half and half, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, ground chuck, ground beef, and all your seasonings. Mixing these ingredients well ensures each meatball is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs

With clean hands or using a cookie scoop, form small balls from your mixture—about 1 inch in diameter works well. This size allows them to cook evenly and makes them perfect for pasta!

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Now it’s time to cook! You can either bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown or simmer them gently in marinara sauce on the stovetop until they’re cooked through. Cooking them in sauce will keep them moist and infuse even more flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through, serve your delicious Ricotta Meatballs over pasta or in subs! Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for that lovely finishing touch. Enjoy every bite with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Ricotta Meatballs

Making Ricotta Meatballs can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese enhance flavors dramatically, making your meatballs taste more vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs instead of tender ones.
• Chill Before Cooking: Letting your formed meatballs chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking and improves texture.
• Cook in Batches: If pan-frying, cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures they brown nicely on all sides and don’t steam.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick!

How to Serve Ricotta Meatballs

These Ricotta Meatballs are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a weeknight meal, here are some creative ideas for serving them.

Garnishes

• Freshly Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also brings a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the meatballs.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor and pairs beautifully with marinara sauce.

Side Dishes

• Pasta: Classic spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce is always a hit. The tender pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a comforting meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. Plus, it adds that satisfying crunch!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrition to your meal while balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting table that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Ricotta Meatballs!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Ricotta Meatballs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without the fuss. Whether you’re making extra for busy nights or planning a family gathering, here’s how to store and save your meatballs.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Ricotta Meatballs in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the marinara sauce covers the meatballs completely to keep them moist.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For oven reheating, place meatballs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
• For stovetop reheating, simmer in marinara sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, place meatballs in a bowl with some sauce and cover. Heat on medium power in intervals of 1 minute until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ricotta Meatballs that might help you along your cooking journey.

Can I use other types of cheese for Ricotta Meatballs?

You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture and flavor profile. Just ensure it has similar moisture content!

How do I ensure my Ricotta Meatballs stay moist?

To keep your Ricotta Meatballs moist, make sure not to overcook them. Additionally, adding half and half helps create a tender texture. Keeping them submerged in marinara sauce during storage also helps maintain moisture.

Can I bake Ricotta Meatballs instead of frying?

Yes! Baking is a healthier option and still yields delicious results. Simply arrange your meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Final Thoughts

These Ricotta Meatballs are not just easy to make; they’re also bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion! I hope you enjoy preparing this recipe as much as I do. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or enjoying leftovers during the week, they’re sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences!