Savory Delight: Ricotta Meatballs Recipe in the Oven

Savory Delight: Ricotta Meatballs Recipe in the Oven

If you’re on the lookout for a comforting and delicious dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than ricotta meatballs! This Italian-inspired recipe combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with ground meat to create meatballs that are not only tender but bursting with flavor. Baked in the oven, these meatballs require less time standing over a hot stove and yield a golden brown finish that is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the buttery goodness of these ricotta meatballs, perfect for serving over pasta, in a sub, or alongside a fresh salad.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious ricotta meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice, crispy exterior for your meatballs.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense meatballs.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 18-20 meatballs, depending on your desired size.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Place the meatballs on the baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

Step 6: Warm the Sauce While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy! Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a minute. Serve them with the warm marinara sauce, whether over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or simply as they are. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Meatballs

1. Choosing the Meat: A blend of ground beef and pork creates a flavorful and juicy meatball, but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
2. Customize the Flavor: Add your favorite herbs or spices to the meatball mixture to suit your taste. Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, or finely chopped onions can all elevate the flavors.
3. Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time. Shape them and store uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Perfect Enveloping Sauce: Don’t hesitate to use your favorite marinara sauce or create your blend with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a custom flavor.

Ricotta meatballs baked in the oven are a delightful twist on a classic recipe; they offer a creamy and flavorful option that is sure to become a family favorite. The best part is that they are simple to prepare and make for a great weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests. Serve alongside a fresh salad and a crusty loaf of bread, and you’ll have a meal fit for any occasion. Enjoy the savory goodness—and don’t forget the leftovers (if any)! Buon Appetito!