These Ricotta Meatballs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Using ricotta cheese keeps the meatballs soft and moist, while a crispy Parmesan-panko topping adds texture. Serve with marinara sauce, garlic bread, or pasta for a classic Italian meal the whole family will love.

Why Ricotta Meatballs Are a Classic Italian Favorite

Ricotta meatballs are a traditional Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family dinners. The ricotta cheese adds creaminess, making the meatballs tender and juicy, while Parmesan and panko provide structure without drying them out. Ground turkey is a lean option, but you can also use ground beef, chicken, or a mix for richer flavor.

Baking instead of frying keeps the recipe lighter, and adding a crisp topping in the oven mimics restaurant-style texture. The meatballs soak up the marinara sauce, creating a comforting, flavorful dish. These meatballs are versatile, perfect for sandwiches, pasta, or on their own as an appetizer.

How Ingredients Work Together for Maximum Flavor

The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, panko, and seasonings gives these meatballs a unique texture and flavor. Ricotta adds moisture and a creamy interior, panko keeps the meatballs light, and Parmesan contributes a salty, nutty depth. Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt elevate the taste without overpowering the dish.

The tomato sauce brings tanginess and sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheese. A final crisp topping of panko, Parmesan, and olive oil adds golden crunch and visual appeal. Fresh parsley brightens the dish with color and subtle herbaceous notes. Together, these ingredients create a restaurant-quality meatball experience at home.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ricotta Meatballs

Using a shallow oven-safe pan or Dutch oven ensures even baking and browning. Roll the meatballs small (about 20–24) so they cook evenly and stay tender. Bake first to get a nice brown crust, then add sauce and finish with the crispy topping under the broiler for that perfect golden finish.

Check the internal temperature: meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C). For deeper pans, adjust baking time or cover to ensure thorough cooking. These meatballs freeze well before adding sauce—perfect for meal prep. Serve with pasta, green salad, or garlic bread to soak up every drop of marinara.

Ingredients

For Ricotta Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey (or beef/chicken)
• ½ cup full-fat ricotta cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For Crispy Topping & Sauce:

• 1 jar marinara or pasta sauce (28–32 oz)
• ¼ cup panko
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Meatballs

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix ground meat, ricotta, Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, salt, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Roll mixture into 20–24 small meatballs. Drizzle olive oil in the bottom of a shallow Dutch oven or oven-safe pan. Place meatballs inside and bake for 20–25 minutes, loosening gently for even browning.

Step 3: Add Sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the baked meatballs, stirring gently to coat.

Step 4: Add Crispy Topping

Combine ¼ cup panko, ¼ cup Parmesan, 2 tsp olive oil, and parsley. Sprinkle over meatballs and sauce.

Step 5: Final Bake and Broil

Return to oven for 5–7 minutes to warm sauce. Broil for 2–3 minutes to get the topping golden and crispy. Serve hot with pasta or garlic bread.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Cholesterol: 75 mg

Ricotta Meatballs

1. Can I use other ground meat?

Yes, ground beef, chicken, or a combination works. Turkey is leaner, keeping the meatballs lighter.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Form meatballs and freeze before baking. Bake and add sauce when ready to serve.

3. Can I skip the crispy topping?

Yes, the meatballs are delicious without it, but the topping adds texture and a golden finish.

4. What to serve with Ricotta Meatballs?

Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete Italian meal.