Ricotta Meatballs
These Ricotta Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, combining ricotta cheese and ground beef for a moist, flavorful bite. Perfect with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or served as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. With easy prep, quick cooking time, and versatile serving options, this recipe is a must-try!
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 15min
- Total Time: 30min
- Yield: 4-6servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with marinara sauce.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix fresh basil into the meatball mixture.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Swap ricotta for mozzarella or a blend of both cheeses for extra cheese pull.
- Make them spicy by adding red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for a healthier option instead of frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ricotta Meatballs are incredibly flavorful, thanks to the creamy ricotta that makes the meatballs soft and moist. The unique combination of beef, ricotta, and seasoning creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. They are easy to prepare, cook quickly, and are versatile enough to be used in many dishes. Plus, they are a great way to add more flavor and richness to your meals, whether you’re serving them with spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or as a standalone appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Roll the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs, making sure they are compact but not overly tight.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pan.
- Cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let rest on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve the meatballs with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Add fresh basil: Mix fresh basil into the meatball mixture for a different herb flavor.
- Turkey Meatballs: For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- Cheese Variation: Swap ricotta for mozzarella or use a blend of both cheeses for extra gooeyness.
- Spicy Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Baked Meatballs: Instead of frying, bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave meatballs for 1-2 minutes, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If reheating frozen meatballs, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully heated.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. They can also be frozen before or after cooking.
2. Can I use other types of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used in place of beef.
3. How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.
4. Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a healthier option. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
5. What should I serve these meatballs with?
They’re perfect with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or served as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping.
6. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked. They should also be golden brown on the outside.
7. Can I make these meatballs without cheese?
You can omit the ricotta cheese, but keep in mind that it contributes to the moisture and flavor of the meatballs.
8. Can I freeze the meatball mixture before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the raw meatball mixture. Shape them into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet, then store them in a freezer bag once firm.
9. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce with these meatballs?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought sauce for convenience, but homemade marinara sauce will take your dish to the next level.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, feel free to double the recipe to make more meatballs for a larger crowd or to have extra for leftovers.
Conclusion
Ricotta Meatballs are a flavorful and versatile dish that adds richness and moisture to the classic meatball. With their tender texture, they’re perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a delicious appetizer. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a party, these meatballs are sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different variations, and don’t forget to keep some leftovers for a quick and easy meal later
