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Ricotta Meatballs: A Comfort Food Classic
Oh, Ricotta Meatballs—where do I even begin? This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family dinners gathered around the table. I vividly recall the first time I made them. I followed my grandmother’s handwritten recipe, pouring her wisdom into each mixing bowl, and let me tell you, the kitchen smelled like a little slice of heaven. These meatballs are not just your average fare; they’re a glorious combination of flavors that bring everyone together.
The surprise ingredient? Ricotta cheese! It adds a creamy richness that sets these meatballs apart. They’re perfect for a casual night in or a fancy dinner party; you can even impress your in-laws—and I won’t tell if you take all the credit for them!
What’s in Ricotta Meatballs?
– 1 lb ground beef: A classic base for those juicy meatballs. Feel free to use grass-fed beef for a bit of an upgrade!
– 1 lb ground pork: This adds moisture and richness. Plus, it gives the meatballs that deliciously tender texture.
– 1 cup ricotta cheese: Ah, the star of the show! This creamy cheese lightens up the meatball mixture and makes them oh-so-tender.
– 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps to bind everything together. I usually opt for seasoned breadcrumbs for a little extra flavor.
– 1 large egg: This helps to hold the meatballs together. You can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option!
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth. If you have fresh Parm, use it; the flavor is unbeatable.
– 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
– 1 tsp dried oregano and 1 tsp dried basil: These herbs bring the Italian vibes. Feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous!
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little zing. I always toss in a few for good measure!
– Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning!
– 2 cups marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or go homemade if you’re ambitious—there’s no shame in love from a jar!
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Because cheese is life. It makes everything gooey and perfect.
– Fresh parsley, for garnish: A pop of color and freshness—plus, it helps to hide any kitchen disasters!
Is Ricotta Meatballs Good for You?
Now you might be wondering if indulging in these Ricotta Meatballs is the best idea for your waistline. Well, let’s break it down!
The inclusion of ricotta cheese not only makes these meatballs creamy but also adds protein, calcium, and essential vitamins—perfect for a post-workout meal! Additionally, ground beef and ground pork are rich in protein as well, supporting muscle health and overall nourishment. The herbs like oregano and basil not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory properties.
However, it’s worth noting that they can be on the heavier side, especially with the marinara and cheese. So maybe save these gems for a special occasion rather than an everyday meal to keep things balanced!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsleyHow to Make Ricotta Meatballs?
1. **Preheat Oven**: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). We want that perfect baking temp!
2. **Combine Meatball Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly blended—get in there with your hands if you need to!
3. **Form Meatballs**: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them in a baking dish, all snug together.
4. **Add Sauce**: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, like you’re giving them a cozy blanket.
5. **Bake**: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and toss it in the oven for 25 minutes. After that, let the meatballs enjoy a breeze by removing the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
6. **Add Cheese**: During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs. Let them bubble up and get all melty; yes, please!
7. **Garnish and Serve**: Once they’re out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and take a moment to appreciate the masterpiece you’ve created!
Meatball Musings
– Pair these delicious Ricotta Meatballs with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad for a complete Italian feast.
– If you want to jazz things up, mix in chopped fresh herbs into the meatball mixture for an extra flavor punch!
I can’t wait for you to give these Ricotta Meatballs a try! They’re heartwarming, comforting, and a fantastic way to bring your loved ones together. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some delicious memories. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any little twists you added; I would love to hear about them!
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