Irresistible Skillet Ricotta Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Indulging in a plate of Skillet Ricotta Meatballs is like giving your taste buds a warm hug. Picture perfectly browned meatballs, oozing with creamy ricotta goodness, swimming in a rich tomato sauce that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—crispy on the outside and tender within—and a flavor explosion that dances on your palate.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. Imagine cozy Sunday dinners where laughter fills the air and everyone is clamoring for seconds. With each forkful, you’ll be transported to culinary bliss, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

I remember the first time I made these meatballs; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them, and I ended up handing out the recipe like candy at Halloween.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose high-quality ground beef for juicy meatballs that stay flavorful during cooking.

• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes all the difference in texture.

• Fresh Basil: Add freshly chopped basil for enhanced aroma and vibrant flavor in your meatballs.

• Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic cloves for that punchy taste—minced finely to distribute flavor evenly.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide the perfect binding without making the meatballs dense; they help keep them light.

• Eggs: Eggs act as a binder; make sure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing.

For the Sauce:

• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Select high-quality tomatoes for rich flavor; San Marzano varieties are always a winner.

• Onion: A finely chopped onion sautéed until translucent enhances the sauce’s sweetness and depth.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds a wonderful richness to your sauce.

• Dried Oregano: This herb brings an earthy note that pairs perfectly with tomatoes, enhancing overall flavor complexity.

• Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season generously—this step is crucial to elevate every ingredient’s taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Skillet Ricotta Meatballs

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, panko breadcrumbs, and eggs. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined.

Form the Meatballs: With clean hands, roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly and brown beautifully.

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches without overcrowding—brown them on all sides for 6-8 minutes until golden.

Sauté Onions: Once all meatballs are browned and removed from skillet, add chopped onions into the same pan. Sauté until they become soft and translucent, releasing their lovely aroma.

Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour canned crushed tomatoes into the skillet with sautéed onions along with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything deliciously.

Cook Together: Return browned meatballs to the skillet with sauce. Let them simmer gently on low heat for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through and flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy this culinary adventure filled with savory aromas wafting throughout your kitchen! With every step you take toward making these Skillet Ricotta Meatballs, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting an experience that will linger long after dinner ends. So grab those ingredients and get ready for some serious flavor magic!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your meatball ingredients in a large bowl, then form them into uniform balls. Sear the meatballs in your skillet until golden brown, and then add your sauce to simmer them gently and absorb all those flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can give your dish an aromatic twist that takes it from good to unforgettable.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Skillet Ricotta Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.

I remember the first time I made Skillet Ricotta Meatballs for my family. They devoured them within minutes, and my niece even asked if we could have them every week!

FAQ

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or parmesan for added flavor.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach 160°F internally.

Can I freeze Skillet Ricotta Meatballs?

Absolutely! Just freeze them in single layers before transferring to an airtight container.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Skillet Ricotta Meatballs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Skillet Ricotta Meatballs. These juicy meatballs, made with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs, are bathed in a rich tomato sauce that will warm your heart and home. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is quick to prepare yet offers gourmet flavor that impresses everyone at the table. Get ready to savor every tender bite of these delectable meatballs!

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, garlic, basil, panko breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form mixture into uniform golf ball-sized meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides for about 6-8 minutes; work in batches if necessary.
4. Remove meatballs and sauté chopped onions in the same skillet until translucent.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to onions; stir well.
6. Return meatballs to the skillet and let simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg