Ricotta meatballs are a fun twist on a classic dish! They’re soft, cheesy, and packed with flavor thanks to the ricotta cheese mixed right into the meat. Yum!
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked on their creamy goodness. I like to serve mine with pasta or on a sub—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just keep in mind the texture may be different.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds a creamy texture and richness to the meatballs. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. Just blend it a bit to smooth it out.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute to keep things light.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese is fine. Nutritional yeast can provide a dairy-free alternative as well.
How Do I Keep My Meatballs Tender?
To ensure fluffy, tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Mix just until combined! Here’s how:
- Use your hands to gently fold the mixture; this helps keep the meatballs light.
- When shaping, don’t pack the meatballs too tightly. A gentle roll will help them stay soft.
- Fry on medium heat; too high can cook the outside faster than the inside, resulting in dryness.
And remember, simmering the meatballs in sauce helps keep them moist and flavorful!
How to Make Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive oil (for frying)
For Garnish:
- Extra parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, grated
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes mixing and shaping the meatballs, then about 20 minutes cooking them in the skillet and simming in the sauce. Perfect timing for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep the meatballs tender!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Make sure to pack them gently, so they hold together but stay soft and fluffy.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re browned and crispy. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
4. Simmer in the Sauce:
Carefully remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and transfer them into a bowl with your warm marinara sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Cover the bowl and let them simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until fully cooked and tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the meatballs are cooked through, serve them hot right from the sauce. Spoon them over pasta, on a sub sandwich, or enjoy them on their own! Don’t forget to garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. If you prefer more flavor, try a mix of ground beef and pork. Just remember, the cooking time may vary a bit with leaner meats.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs! Freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll last for up to 3 months. Just cook them directly from frozen; they may need an extra few minutes in the skillet.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated on the stovetop in a little sauce or in the microwave. Just be sure to heat them until they’re warmed through evenly!
What Can I Serve with Ricotta Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious served over pasta or in a sub sandwich! For a lighter option, pair them with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal. Enjoy experimenting!
