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Ultra-Tender Ricotta Meatballs – Soft, Juicy & Melt-in-Your-Mouth

If you’ve ever wished for meatballs that are unbelievably soft, juicy, and almost cloud-like inside, these Ricotta Meatballs are exactly what you need. Adding ricotta cheese to meatballs is a simple trick that completely transforms their texture, creating a tender bite that stays moist even after cooking. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that feels elevated yet familiar. These ricotta meatballs are perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. They pair beautifully with sauces, grains, or vegetables, but they’re just as delicious enjoyed on their own. The ricotta doesn’t overpower the meat—instead, it gently enhances the flavor while keeping everything light and delicate. Whether you’re serving guests or cooking for yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • These ingredients work together to create soft juicy meatballs with incredible flavor.
Meat
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
Dairy
  • ¾ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese
Binders
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
Aromatics
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons onion very finely chopped
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
Fresh Herbs (Optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
  • Cooking Fat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil if pan-searing

Equipment

  • To prepare perfect ricotta meatballs, you’ll need:
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Fork or whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Baking sheet or large skillet
  • Parchment paper (if baking)
  • Tongs
  • Cooling rack
  • Optional but helpful:
  • Ice cream scoop for uniform meatballs
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly tender ricotta meatballs.
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Base
  1. In a medium bowl, mix:
  2. Ricotta cheese
  3. Egg
  4. Parmesan-style cheese
  5. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Add Flavor
  1. Stir in garlic, onion, dried herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Breadcrumbs
  1. Fold in breadcrumbs.
  2. Let the mixture rest for 2–3 minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb moisture.
Step 4: Add the Meat
  1. Add ground beef or chicken to the bowl.
  2. Gently mix using your hands or a fork.
  3. Do not overmix—this keeps the meatballs soft.
Step 5: Shape the Meatballs
  1. Scoop and roll into evenly sized balls (about 1½ inches).
  2. Place them on a lined baking sheet or plate.
  3. Cooking Method 1: Baking (Recommended for Soft Texture)
  4. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Arrange meatballs with space between each.
  7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until cooked through and lightly golden.
  8. Cooking Method 2: Pan-Searing (For Golden Crust)
  9. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  10. Add meatballs in batches.
  11. Cook, turning gently, for 10–12 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months.
Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to freezer bags.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven.
Add a splash of broth or sauce to keep them moist.
🥄 Variations
Customize your ricotta meatballs with these ideas:
Extra Soft Version
Increase ricotta by ¼ cup.
Herb-Forward
Add fresh basil or dill.
Spicy Option
Add chili flakes or spicy paprika.
Lemon Twist
Add a little lemon zest for brightness.
Mini Meatballs
Make smaller portions for appetizers.
❓ 10 FAQs
What does ricotta do in meatballs?
It adds moisture and creates a soft, tender texture.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken works beautifully and stays juicy.
Do these meatballs fall apart?
No, the egg and breadcrumbs help bind them well.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, baking is highly recommended for tenderness.
Why are my meatballs tough?
Overmixing the meat can make them dense.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, they store and reheat very well.
Are these kid-friendly?
Absolutely, they’re soft and mild in flavor.
Can I make them smaller?
Yes, just reduce cooking time slightly.
Do I need to drain ricotta?
If very watery, lightly drain for best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales perfectly.
🏁 Conclusion
These Ricotta Meatballs are a game-changer for anyone who loves tender, juicy comfort food. The ricotta creates a light, delicate texture while the seasoning brings warmth and depth to every bite. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, this recipe fits effortlessly into both everyday meals and special occasions.
Once you try them, you’ll never go back to ordinary meatballs again.