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 tender meatballs, enriched with creamy ricotta, elevate the traditional meatball experience to new heights. Originating from Italian cuisine, ricotta meatballs have become a beloved dish in many households, celebrated for their rich taste and satisfying texture.

What I adore about this ricotta meatballs dinner is not just the incredible flavor, but also the convenience it offers. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both special and comforting. The combination of savory meat, creamy ricotta, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or on their own, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!

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 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. This will help hold everything together. Make sure to beat it lightly before adding it to the mixture.
5. Now, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). These ingredients will infuse the meatballs with flavor.
6. Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. I usually mix until I can no longer see any dry ingredients.

Shaping the Meatballs

1. Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the meatballs. I like to use a cookie scoop or my hands to form them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
3. Continue shaping until all the mixture is used up. You should have about 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.

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 will help the meatballs brown nicely.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. I usually do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of browning.
3. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, turning them gently with tongs until they are golden brown all over. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
4. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point, as 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 jarred sauce works just fine!
2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This will help to warm it up and prepare it for the meatballs.
3. Once the sauce is simmering, carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Make sure they are submerged in the sauce.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the meatballs are cooked through. I like to check them halfway through to give them a gentle stir.

Serving the Dish

1. While the meatballs are simmering, you can prepare your

   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 give this recipe a go and experience the joy of creating something truly delicious in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with variations—try adding herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor, or swap out the meat for a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Once you’ve made this Ricotta Meatballs Dinner, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and connecting, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own. 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.