Ah, Ricotta Meatballs! If you’ve never tasted the delightful combination of ricotta, beef, and pork in meatball form, you are in for a treat! This recipe holds a special place in my heart since it reminds me of cozy family dinners at my childhood home, where the dining room was filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of a hearty Italian meal wafted through the air. I vividly remember my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up a batch of her famous meatballs, and I would sneak bites when I thought no one was looking (sorry, Nana!).
What’s unique about these meatballs is the creamy ricotta cheese that adds an unbelievable richness to the texture. And trust me, the sauce made from crushed tomatoes is like a warm hug to the meatballs. Despite the hearty ingredients, this dish truly brings people together, perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. So, let’s dive right into making these delicious Ricotta Meatballs!
What’s in Ricotta Meatballs?
- Ground beef: I usually opt for a leaner cut to balance the richness of the pork and ricotta. Feel free to go for organic beef if that tickles your fancy!
- Ground pork: The fat content here keeps things juicy. And if you’re adventurous, you could swap in ground turkey if you’re looking for something leaner!
- Ricotta cheese: This is the star! It makes the meatballs remarkably tender and creamy. Use the good stuff for the best flavor—BelGioioso is my go-to.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for a sharp, nutty touch that complements the other ingredients. Aged Parmesan will step it up a notch!
- Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs together. I prefer plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, holding everything together, ensuring our meatballs don’t fall apart in the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for that aromatic punch we all love! There’s no such thing as too much garlic in my book.
- Fresh parsley: I throw it in for a pop of color and freshness. You could substitute it or add basil for a different flair.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for flavor—don’t be shy here! Adjust to your taste.
- Italian seasoning: A pre-mixed blend that screams “Italian family dinner!” Use it generously!
Is Ricotta Meatballs Good for You?
Let’s be real; these Ricotta Meatballs are definitely indulgent, but they also have some positives! The combination of ground beef and ground pork provides a hearty protein punch. Plus, ricotta cheese is lower in fat compared to other cheeses, making it a slightly lighter option for creamy deliciousness. Not to mention, you’re getting the benefits of fresh parsley and garlic which are both known for their health benefits.
However, if you are watching your calorie intake, keep the portion size in check or adjust the meat-to-cheese ratio to lighten it up a bit. Pairing these meatballs with a side of salad or steamed veggies can balance things out beautifully. In the end, it’s all about enjoying your meal while making mindful choices!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 lb (450g) ground pork
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Extra ricotta cheese (optional, for topping)
How to Make Ricotta Meatballs?
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it all warmed up and ready for those meatballs!
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Couscous time! Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in size. They should fit perfectly in your sauce!
- Cook the Meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs in the simmering sauce in the skillet. Gently spoon some sauce over the meatballs so they’re cozily covered. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Add Ricotta Topping: Before serving, dollop additional ricotta cheese over the meatballs in the sauce. Give it a moment in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm up that delicious ricotta.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional parsley if you want to impress your guests. Serve the ricotta meatballs hot with crusty bread or over pasta for a true Italian feast!
Meatball Magic Tips
- Feel free to experiment! I love adding spices like crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- These meatballs can be made ahead of time—just prepare them and freeze them before cooking. You can pop them into your sauce later for a quick weeknight dinner!
- Want to elevate the dish? Serve with garlic bread and a light salad on the side to balance the meal.
There you have it! These Ricotta Meatballs are not just tasty; they’re the perfect dish to share with family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. I can’t wait to hear about your cooking adventures. Don’t forget to share your delicious outcomes on social media and tag me! Happy cooking!
