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Ricotta Meatballs – Ultra Soft, Juicy and Flavor-Packed Homemade Meatballs

Ricotta Meatballs are a game-changer if you love tender, melt-in-your-mouth meatballs. Adding ricotta cheese makes them incredibly soft and juicy on the inside while still beautifully browned on the outside. These meatballs are rich, comforting, and perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. This recipe uses beef or chicken only (no pork), simple pantry seasonings, and a foolproof method that works every time. Whether you serve them with pasta, vegetables, or on their own, these ricotta meatballs deliver restaurant-quality texture at home. If dry meatballs are your fear, this recipe is your solution.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
  • ¾ cup ricotta cheese whole milk preferred
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • These ingredients create meatballs that are tender rich, savory, and perfectly balanced.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or cookie scoop
  • Skillet (optional for browning)

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
  1. In a large bowl, add the ricotta cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan-style cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3:
  1. Mix gently until well combined.
Step 4:
  1. Add the ground beef or chicken to the bowl.
Step 5:
  1. Using clean hands or a spoon, gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
Step 6:
  1. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into meatballs.
Step 7:
  1. Place the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8:
  1. Lightly brush or drizzle the tops with olive oil.
Step 9:
  1. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.
Optional Step 10 (Extra Browning):
  1. For deeper color, quickly sear the baked meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
Step 11:
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezing:
Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven, skillet, or microwave
Add a splash of water if reheating covered
🥄 Variations
Chicken ricotta meatballs: Use ground chicken for a lighter option
Extra herby: Add fresh parsley or basil
Spicy: Add chili flakes
Low-carb: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
Cheesy: Add mozzarella-style cheese inside each meatball
Each variation keeps the meatballs soft, flavorful, and versatile.
❓ 10 FAQs
Why add ricotta to meatballs?
It makes them extra soft and moist.
Do these fall apart?
No, the egg and breadcrumbs bind them well.
Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
Yes, but baking keeps them lighter.
Can kids eat these?
Yes, mild and family-friendly.
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, texture will still be tender.
Are these healthy?
Yes, especially with chicken.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely.
Do they work with sauce?
Perfectly—they stay tender.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes, great for meal prep.
Do they stay soft the next day?
Yes, even after reheating.
🏁 Conclusion
Ricotta Meatballs are the secret to perfectly tender homemade meatballs every time. Creamy ricotta, simple seasonings, and the right technique make these unforgettable—no dry bites, no guesswork.
Once you try them, they’ll replace every other meatball recipe you know.