These Ricotta Meatballs are packed with flavor and can be cooked on the stovetop, baked in the oven, or made in a slow cooker! Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or alongside a crisp salad, they make a delicious and comforting meal.
What is a Panade?
A panade is a combination of starch and liquid that forms a paste. It’s used in meatballs, meatloaf, and burgers to keep the meat tender and juicy. As the meat cooks, proteins expand, causing moisture loss. The starch in the panade turns into a gel, coating the meat fibers and locking in moisture.
Ingredients
Herb Ricotta Mixture:
- 15 oz. Ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon EACH: dried basil, oregano, parsley
Meatballs:
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, whisked
- 1/2 cup half and half (or cream)
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon EACH: Italian seasoning, mustard powder, salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb. ground chuck (80% lean)
- 1/2 lb. ground pork (or sausage/veal)
- 32 oz. marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
Instructions
1. Prepare the Herb Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with minced garlic, basil, oregano, and parsley. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
3. Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the egg, half and half, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and 3/4 cup of the herb ricotta mixture. Add the cooled onions and garlic.
Season the ground meat with salt and pepper, then gently mix it into the bowl. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
4. Form and Chill the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on a tray. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
5. Brown the Meatballs
Heat the remaining oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, rotating them for even color. Remove and set aside.
6. Simmer in Marinara Sauce
Add marinara sauce to the skillet, thinning it with 1/4 cup water if needed. Return the meatballs to the pan and spoon sauce over them. Partially cover and simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. During the last 15 minutes, add dollops of the remaining herb ricotta mixture on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Oven-Baked Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- After browning, transfer meatballs and 3/4 of the marinara sauce to a casserole dish. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove cover, add ricotta dollops, and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes.
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown meatballs as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker.
- Add marinara sauce and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Add ricotta dollops 20 minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Options:
- Refrigerate: Browned meatballs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simmer in sauce before serving.
- Freeze: Freeze browned meatballs on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze fully cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality marinara sauce! Rao’s is an excellent store-bought option, or try making your own.
- Customize the meat mix! You can use a blend of ground chuck, pork, sausage, or veal for added flavor.
- Grate your own Parmesan. Freshly grated cheese has better flavor and melts more smoothly.
- Lightly oil your hands when rolling the meatballs. This prevents sticking and makes shaping easier.
Try These Next
- Cheese Pasta – A creamy and comforting dish!
- Minestrone Soup – Hearty and packed with vegetables.
- Chicken Meatballs – A lighter, flavorful twist!
- Baked Ravioli – A cheesy, baked pasta dish!
- Chicken Parmesan – A classic Italian favorite!