"Deliciously Creamy Meatball Recipe with Ricotta: A Comfort Food Favorite"

#### Description:If you're looking for a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, this **meatball recipe with ricotta** is the perfect choice. Combining t……

#### Description:

If you're looking for a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, this **meatball recipe with ricotta** is the perfect choice. Combining the rich creaminess of ricotta cheese with savory ground meat creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. This recipe not only elevates the flavor of your meatballs but also adds a wonderful texture that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.

#### Ingredients:

To make this **meatball recipe with ricotta**, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork

- 1 cup ricotta cheese

- 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

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

- Your favorite marinara sauce for serving

#### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown crust.

2. **Mix the Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands to mix everything together gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

3. **Form the Meatballs**: Once the mixture is well combined, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

4. **Bake the Meatballs**: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden color on the outside. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

5. **Serve with Marinara Sauce**: While the meatballs are baking, heat your favorite marinara sauce in a saucepan. Once the meatballs are done, you can either serve them directly with the sauce or add them to the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

6. **Garnish and Enjoy**: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. They make a fantastic main dish served over spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or even on their own as an appetizer.

#### Conclusion:

This **meatball recipe with ricotta** is sure to become a household favorite. The ricotta adds a creamy richness that elevates the meatballs beyond the ordinary, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, they are easy to make and can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use. Enjoy these delicious meatballs with your loved ones and savor the comforting flavors they bring to your table!