Ricotta Meatballs Dinner: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Family

Ricotta meatballs dinner is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings comfort and flavor to your table. As someone who has always cherished the art of cooking, I find that these meatballs not only offer a unique texture but also a rich history rooted in Italian cuisine. Traditionally, meatballs have been a staple in many households, often passed down through generations, and the addition of ricotta cheese elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

People love ricotta meatballs dinner for its incredible taste and the way it combines the savory flavors of ground meat with the creamy, light texture of ricotta. This dish is not only satisfying but also convenient, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or on their own, ricotta meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends. Join me as we explore this mouthwatering recipe that is bound to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Cooked pasta (spaghetti or your choice, optional)

Preparing the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and ground beef. I like to use a fork to break up the beef and mix it with the ricotta until they are well combined.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the meatballs.
3. Next, sprinkle in the breadcrumbs. They help bind the meatballs together and give them a nice texture.
4. Crack the egg into the bowl. The egg acts as a binder, helping the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
5. Now, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). I love the aroma of garlic, and it really elevates the flavor of the meatballs.
6. Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
7. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the mixture easier to handle.

Shaping the Meatballs

1. After the mixture has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
2. With your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball. I like to wet my hands slightly to prevent sticking. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly.
3. Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into meatballs. You should have about 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size.

Cooking the Meatballs

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, which helps achieve a nice golden crust on the meatballs.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. I usually do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they are golden brown.
3. Using tongs, gently turn the meatballs to brown them on all sides. This should take another 4-5 minutes. The goal is to get a nice sear without cooking them all the way through.
4. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside. They will finish cooking in the sauce.

Simmering in Marinara Sauce

1. In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference. I love a good homemade sauce, but a quality store-bought one works just fine!
2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; they add great flavor to the sauce.
3. Once the sauce is simmering, carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the meatballs to coat them.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this Ricotta Meatballs Dinner is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals with a touch of comfort and sophistication. The combination of creamy ricotta and savory meat creates a delightful texture and flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you choose to serve it over a bed of spaghetti, alongside a fresh garden salad, or even in a hearty sub sandwich, the possibilities are endless! I encourage you to get in the kitchen and whip up this delicious Ricotta Meatballs Dinner for yourself and your loved ones. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. And don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear how your meatballs turned out and any creative twists you added. Happy cooking! Print

   Ricotta Meatballs Dinner: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Family

   Print Recipe

   These delicious ricotta and beef meatballs are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Ideal for serving over pasta or enjoying on their own, they are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

   • Author: Dottie
   • Prep Time: 30 minutes
   • Cook Time: 30 minutes
   • Total Time: 60 minutes
   • Yield: 20-24 meatballs

   Ingredients

   • Ground beef
   • Ricotta cheese
   • Breadcrumbs
   • Parmesan cheese
   • Egg
   • Garlic, minced
   • Fresh basil, chopped
   • Red pepper flakes
   • Salt
   • Pepper
   • Marinara sauce
   • Pasta (optional, for serving)

   Instructions

   1. Allow the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce and finish cooking through for 30 minutes.
   2. After 30 minutes, check the meatballs to ensure they are cooked through. They should be tender and flavorful.
   3. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves, over cooked pasta if desired.

   Notes

   • Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. You can add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
   • These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just thaw and reheat in the sauce when ready to serve.
   • For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.