Description
Easy Family Favorite Ricotta Meatballs are a delightful twist on a beloved classic. Bursting with flavor from creamy ricotta and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, these tender meatballs are perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also brings everyone together around the table. Ideal for serving over pasta or as appetizers, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 cups canned tomato sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Optionally, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides.
- In a large pot, pour in the canned tomato sauce and gently add the meatballs. Simmer for about 30 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve over pasta or enjoy with crusty bread; garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. To make gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.