Are you ready for a meatball recipe that’s going to change your life? These Easy Ricotta Meatballs are a game-changer! The secret ingredient, ricotta cheese, makes these meatballs incredibly tender and juicy, while the blend of Italian herbs and spices gives them a flavor punch that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or your next family gathering, these meatballs are so easy to make and utterly delicious.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a meatball that’s light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The ricotta cheese adds a creaminess that you just can’t get with regular meatballs, and it keeps them from drying out as they cook. Paired with your favorite marinara sauce and a side of pasta, these meatballs are going to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s not only comforting and hearty but also incredibly easy to prepare.

Resume of the Recipe in Todd Wilbur’s Writing Style:

These Easy Ricotta Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic. By adding ricotta cheese to the mix, these meatballs turn out incredibly tender and moist, with a rich flavor profile thanks to the perfect blend of herbs and spices. Whether served over pasta or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

The best part about this recipe? It’s super simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have these meatballs on the table in no time. They’re perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

When I first made these Easy Ricotta Meatballs, my family couldn’t believe how tender and juicy they were. My husband is a meatball fanatic, and after one bite, he declared these the best he’s ever had. Even my picky eaters couldn’t get enough! Now, these meatballs are a regular in our dinner rotation, especially on those nights when we want something comforting yet easy to make. The ricotta adds such a lovely texture, making these meatballs melt in your mouth with every bite. It’s safe to say these have become a beloved family recipe, and I’m sure they’ll become one in your household too!

Why These Easy Ricotta Meatballs:

• Super Tender: The ricotta cheese makes these meatballs incredibly moist and tender.
• Full of Flavor: A perfect blend of Italian herbs and spices creates a rich and delicious taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve them over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer.

How to Make Easy Ricotta Meatballs:

1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are just combined; do not overmix.
2. Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should get about 18-20 meatballs.
3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned all over. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate.
4. Simmer in Sauce: If serving with marinara, transfer the meatballs to a pot of simmering marinara sauce. Let the meatballs cook in the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
5. Serve: Serve the meatballs hot over pasta, in a sub roll, or as an appetizer with toothpicks. Don’t forget to top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley!

Tips For Easy Ricotta Meatballs

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
• Cooking Method: For a lighter version, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
• Sauce Pairing: Use a good-quality marinara sauce or homemade sauce for the best flavor.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Cheese Alternatives: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.
• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Lean Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a leaner option.
• Reduced Fat: Use low-fat ricotta cheese to cut down on fat.
• Baked, Not Fried: Opt to bake the meatballs instead of frying to reduce oil intake.

Closing in Todd Wilbur Style:

And there you have it! These Easy Ricotta Meatballs are a simple yet delicious way to elevate your dinner game. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us, and be sure to check out our other mouthwatering recipes for more inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Ricotta Meatballs

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after cooking. Just thaw and reheat in sauce when ready to serve.

What can I serve with these meatballs?
They’re great with pasta, on a sub, or even with a side of garlic bread and a salad.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Do I have to use pork?
No, you can use all beef or substitute with ground chicken or turkey.

How can I make these meatballs spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.

Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat them in a saucepan with some marinara sauce on low heat until warmed through.

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Easy Ricotta Meatballs

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Thanksgiving, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional, or use all beef)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Olive oil, for frying

• Your favorite marinara sauce, for serving

Directions

• Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are just combined; do not overmix.
• Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should get about 18-20 meatballs.
• Cook the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned all over. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate.
• Simmer in Sauce: If serving with marinara, transfer the meatballs to a pot of simmering marinara sauce. Let the meatballs cook in the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
• Serve: Serve the meatballs hot over pasta, in a sub roll, or as an appetizer with toothpicks. Don’t forget to top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley!