Description
These Ricotta-Filled Meatballs with Lemon Zest and Parmesan are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. A creamy ricotta center adds a rich surprise, while the lemon zest and Parmesan brighten every bite, making them a perfect dish for a special dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined.
- Form small meatballs, placing 1/2 teaspoon of ricotta cheese in the center of each and sealing the meat around it completely.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked through.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the meatballs are fully sealed around the ricotta to prevent leakage.
- Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: ricotta-filled meatballs, lemon zest Parmesan meatballs, Italian meatball recipe, stuffed meatballs, special dinner recipe