If you love meatballs but want to elevate them to something truly special, Ricotta Meatballs are the way to go. These tender, juicy meatballs are infused with a creamy herb ricotta mixture, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you cook them on the stove, in the oven, or even in a crockpot, this recipe offers versatility and unbeatable taste. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this rich, satisfying meal!

Why Ricotta Meatballs are a Must-Try

• Tender Texture: The addition of ricotta cheese keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
• Herb-Infused Flavor: A mix of Italian herbs and fresh parsley gives every bite a fragrant, savory taste.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Make them on the stovetop, in the oven, or with a slow cooker.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Serve over pasta, in a sub, or as a standalone dish with crusty bread.

Ingredients for Ricotta Meatballs

For the Herb Ricotta Mixture

• 15 oz. ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon each: dried basil, oregano, parsley

For the Meatballs

• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, whisked
• ½ cup half and half (or cream)
• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup parsley, roughly chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, mustard powder, salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lb. ground chuck (80% lean)
• ½ lb. ground pork (or substitute with sausage or veal)

For the Sauce and Cooking

• 32 oz. marinara sauce
• ½ cup olive oil, divided

Cooking Ricotta Meatballs: The Stove-Top Method

1. Prepare the Herb Ricotta Mixture

• Combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, basil, oregano, and parsley in a bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Let cool.

3. Make the Meatball Mixture

• In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, half and half, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add ¾ cup of the prepared ricotta mixture and the cooled onions and garlic. Stir to combine.

4. Add the Meat

• Season the ground chuck and pork with salt and pepper. Add the meat to the bowl and gently mix with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

5. Shape and Chill

• Roll the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.

6. Brown the Meatballs

• Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, leaving space between them. Brown each side for about 1½ minutes, then set aside.

7. Simmer in Marinara Sauce

• Remove excess oil from the skillet and pour in the marinara sauce. Add ¼ cup of water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
• Nestle the meatballs into the sauce, spooning some over the top. Partially cover the skillet and simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes.

8. Add Ricotta Topping

• Use a small scoop to dollop the remaining ricotta mixture on top of the meatballs during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

9. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and serve hot. Pair with pasta, crusty bread, or a crisp green salad.

Alternative Cooking Methods

1. Oven-Baked Method

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes, then transfer to a skillet with marinara sauce. Simmer on low for 10 minutes before serving.

2. Crockpot Method

• Brown the meatballs as directed. Transfer them to a slow cooker with marinara sauce and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Add ricotta topping during the last 30 minutes.

3. Air Fryer Method

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Cook meatballs for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add to marinara sauce on the stove to finish.

Ways to Serve Ricotta Meatballs

1. Over Pasta: A classic pairing with spaghetti, penne, or linguine.
2. In Subs: Load meatballs into a toasted hoagie roll with marinara and melted mozzarella.
3. As an Appetizer: Serve on toothpicks with a side of marinara for dipping.
4. With Veggies: Pair with roasted zucchini, broccoli, or a fresh green salad for a low-carb option.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 840mg

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Meatballs

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, garlic, and high-quality ricotta elevate the flavor.
2. Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the meatballs prevents them from falling apart.
3. Don’t Overmix: Gentle mixing keeps the meatballs tender and light.
4. Adjust the Sauce: Add water if the marinara thickens too much during cooking.
5. Experiment with Meat: Try combinations like ground turkey and chicken for a lighter version.

FAQs About Ricotta Meatballs

1. Can I freeze ricotta meatballs?
Yes! Freeze raw meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight before cooking.

2. Can I use store-bought ricotta?
Absolutely! High-quality store-bought ricotta works perfectly, but homemade adds a special touch.

3. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
Panko or crushed crackers are great alternatives. For gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

4. How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well-chilled before cooking and avoid overcrowding the skillet.

5. Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Yes, a good-quality jarred marinara sauce saves time without sacrificing flavor.

6. What’s the best way to reheat meatballs?
Reheat gently on the stove in marinara sauce or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Dinner with Ricotta Meatballs

Ricotta Meatballs are a game-changer, turning a classic comfort food into something truly special. With their tender texture, rich flavor, and versatile cooking options, they’re a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy meal for the family, this recipe is sure to impress.

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