When the aroma of hearty marinara sauce and creamy ricotta wafts through your kitchen, it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. Few meals evoke the same level of comfort and nostalgia as Creamy and Tender Ricotta Meatballs – A Comfort Food Favorite. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is a must-try for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Let’s explore what makes these meatballs irresistibly tender and how you can master this recipe step by step.

What Makes Ricotta Meatballs So Special?

Unlike traditional meatballs, ricotta meatballs are luxuriously soft and creamy thanks to the ricotta cheese. The blend of ground chuck, pork, and a mix of herbs creates a dish that’s flavorful and satisfying. The addition of a silky marinara sauce ties everything together, making this recipe the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Meatballs

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these decadent meatballs.

Herb Ricotta Mixture

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Ricotta cheese	15 oz.	Adds creaminess and light texture
Garlic, minced	1 tsp	Provides robust, savory flavor
Dried basil, oregano, parsley	1 tsp each	Infuses classic Italian herb flavors

Meatball Mixture

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Yellow onion, finely diced	1	Adds sweetness and depth of flavor
Garlic, minced	3 cloves	Boosts aroma and taste
Egg, whisked	1	Helps bind the ingredients together
Half and half (or cream)	½ cup	Keeps the meatballs moist and tender
Italian breadcrumbs	½ cup	Provides structure and helps absorb moisture
Parmesan cheese	½ cup	Enhances savory flavor
Fresh parsley, chopped	⅓ cup	Adds a fresh and bright note
Italian seasoning, mustard powder, salt	1 tsp each	Deepens the overall flavor profile
Black pepper	½ tsp	Balances the savory notes
Ground chuck (80% lean)	1 lb.	Base for hearty and juicy meatballs
Ground pork or sausage/veal	½ lb.	Adds additional richness and flavor

For Cooking

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Olive oil	½ cup	For sautéing meatballs
Marinara sauce	32 oz.	Creates a rich, tangy base

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Herb Ricotta Mixture

• In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and parsley.
• Mix well and set aside.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.

3. Create the Meatball Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg and half and half together.
• Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
• Stir in ¾ cup of the herb ricotta mixture.
• Incorporate the cooled onion and garlic mixture.

4. Combine the Meat

• Add the ground chuck and ground pork to the bowl.
• Using your hands, gently mix until the ingredients are evenly combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat.

5. Shape and Chill the Meatballs

• Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs.
• Place them on a tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them firm up.

6. Brown the Meatballs

• Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring enough space for easy rotation.
• Brown each side for about 1 ½ minutes, then transfer to a plate.

7. Simmer in Marinara Sauce

• Remove excess oil from the skillet and pour in the marinara sauce.
• Add ¼ cup water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
• Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon sauce over them.
• Cover partially and simmer for 30 minutes.

8. Add the Ricotta Topping

• In the last 15 minutes, use a small scoop to dollop the remaining ricotta mixture on top of the meatballs.
• Allow the ricotta to heat through and meld with the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Meatballs

Choosing the Right Meat

• Use a mix of ground chuck and pork for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.

Prevent Overworking the Meat

• Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough. Use a gentle hand when combining ingredients.

Adjusting the Sauce Consistency

• If the marinara sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little water or chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or alongside a crusty loaf of Italian bread.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	480
Protein	27g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	780mg

Variations to Try

Cheesy Delight

Stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella cheese for an extra gooey surprise.

Vegetarian Option

Substitute the meat with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the meatballs on a greased baking sheet for 20–25 minutes.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and brown the meatballs in advance, then refrigerate or freeze them. Add them to the sauce when ready to cook.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store the meatballs in an airtight container with sauce for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, but choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor. You can also enhance it with garlic, herbs, or a splash of wine.

5. Can I make this dish lighter?

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork, and opt for part-skim ricotta cheese.

6. What side dishes pair well with ricotta meatballs?

Serve them with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or creamy polenta for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Creamy and Tender Ricotta Meatballs – A Comfort Food Favorite will transport you to a cozy Italian kitchen. The creamy ricotta, perfectly seasoned meat, and rich marinara sauce combine to create a dish that’s indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Your Next Steps

Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into making this delicious comfort food. Share it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to garnish with parsley for that finishing touch!

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