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+ servings

Italian-Style Ricotta Meatballs (without Egg)

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Large Skillet (10 inches)
  • Cookie or Baking Sheet

Ingredients  

  • ¾ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ pound ground beef, 80% lean
  • ½ pound ground Italian pork sausage
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce

Instructions 

  • In a large bowl, stir the ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • To the bowl with the ricotta, add the ground beef, Italian sausage, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, herbs, and seasonings. Using your hands, gently mix until just combined. Don't overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
  • Wet your hands slightly and form the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches in diameter (about golf ball size) and place them on a baking sheet.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Don't overcrowd the pan.
  • Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice golden crust.
  • Once all the meatballs are browned, remove any excess oil and return all the meatballs to the pan. Add the marinara sauce, reduce heat to low, and cover.
  • Simmer for 15-20 minutes, occasionally stirring gently, until meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
  • Serve hot with additional grated parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

1. Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. The nutritional value is only for Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad and will vary based on the brand of ingredients used. It does not include the nutrition for any substitutions.
2. Be sure to check out the Key Ingredients along with the Recipe Tips and Notes sections found in the post, for more tips, options, substitutions, and variations for this recipe! You will also find step-by-step photos there.