meatballs with ricotta cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
meatballs with ricotta cheese recipe
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The Best meatballs with ricotta cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this amazing meatballs with ricotta cheese recipe with you all. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meals that my family will love. This recipe has been a game-changer for us – it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions like holidays and parties.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. My kids devour these meatballs in no time, and my husband loves them just as much as the kids do. We’ve even started making them for potlucks and gatherings because everyone raves about them.

Plus, they’re a great way to get in some extra veggies and lean protein. I’ve experimented with different types of cheese, but ricotta is my absolute favorite – it adds such a creamy texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. I’ve also been experimenting with different spices and herbs to give the meatballs an extra boost of flavor.

Some people might be worried about using ricotta in meatballs, but trust me when I say it’s a total winner. It adds moisture and tenderness that you won’t find with traditional beef or pork meatballs. Another benefit of using ricotta is that it helps keep the meatballs nice and moist even after reheating them for leftovers or special events.

I’ve tried this recipe with all sorts of pasta sauces, but my go-to is a simple homemade marinara made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. It’s so easy to make and pairs perfectly with the creamy ricotta meatballs. My family loves this recipe so much that we’ve even started making it for breakfast – yes, you read that right!

We top our meatball subs with scrambled eggs, cheese, and a sprinkle of parmesan for an Italian-inspired breakfast treat that we can’t get enough of.

Ricotta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Ricotta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

4.5 from 1924 votes

These tender meatballs combine ground beef with creamy ricotta cheese for a moist and flavorful dish. They are simmered in a rich tomato sauce and make a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley.
2Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3Form the mixture into 16 equal-sized meatballs, about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
4Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
5Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
7Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
8In the same skillet, add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
9Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
11Season with salt and pepper.
12Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
13Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
14Cover and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
15Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
16The meatballs should be tender and fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 160°F.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 115mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef. The ricotta keeps the meatballs moist even with leaner meat. You can also bake the meatballs at 400°F for 15 minutes instead of browning them in the skillet.

Watch Video Of How Ricotta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Works

I make these meatballs with ricotta cheese at least once a month because they come together fast and everyone at the table cleans their plate.

They hold up well on a platter for a family gathering and taste just as good on a weeknight when it is only the four of us.

If you need one reliable dish that works for a holiday, a potluck, or a Sunday dinner, this is the one I reach for.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ricotta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Q1: What type of cheese should I use if I don’t have ricotta?

If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can substitute it with other soft cheeses like mascarpone or cottage cheese. However, keep in mind that these cheeses may change the flavor profile slightly.

Q2: Can I use ground beef instead of pork?

Yes, you can use ground beef instead of pork – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q3: How do I prevent the meatballs from becoming too dense?

To prevent the meatballs from becoming too dense, make sure not to overmix the mixture when combining the ingredients.

Q4: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

You can bake the meatballs instead of frying them – simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Q5: What’s the best way to store leftover meatballs?

The best way to store leftover meatballs is in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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