Ricotta balls are a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side, or main course. They’re light, cheesy, and a bit crispy on the outside while soft and fluffy on the inside. These can be paired with tomato sauce for a classic experience or enjoyed on their own!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk ricotta)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for rolling)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for frying

• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

• Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully combined. The mixture should be firm enough to shape into balls. If it’s too sticky, add more breadcrumbs until it firms up.

2. Shape the Ricotta Balls:

   • Take small spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture and roll them into balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You can lightly coat them in extra breadcrumbs for an added crispy texture when frying.

3. Fry the Ricotta Balls:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently add the ricotta balls, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the balls for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

4. Drain and Serve:

   • Remove the ricotta balls from the skillet and drain on paper towels. If desired, garnish with fresh basil and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrients (Estimated per ricotta ball, makes about 12-15)

• Calories: ~90 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~8g

• Protein: ~4g

• Fat: ~6g

• Saturated Fat: ~2g

• Fiber: ~1g

The Magic of Ricotta Cheese

At the heart of these ricotta balls is, of course, the ricotta cheese. Ricotta is a soft, creamy cheese that adds a light, delicate texture to the ricotta balls. Unlike other cheeses, ricotta has a mild flavor that allows it to pair well with a variety of ingredients. In this recipe, the ricotta is combined with Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to create a mixture that holds its shape when fried, giving you that perfect crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

Ricotta is also known for its high protein content, which makes it a satisfying ingredient for those looking to add some extra nutrients to their meals. Whether you’re making ricotta balls as an appetizer or as a main dish, ricotta cheese provides a light yet creamy base that’s both delicious and filling.

Why These Ricotta Balls Are So Special

The beauty of ricotta balls lies in their simplicity. They’re made with just a handful of ingredients, yet the result is a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. The ricotta cheese, combined with the salty richness of Parmesan cheese, creates a creamy base that’s balanced by the slight crispness of the breadcrumbs. A hint of garlic powder and dried oregano adds an aromatic, savory kick to each bite.

The mixture is shaped into small balls and fried in olive oil, which creates that golden, crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft, pillowy interior. The outer crust gives the ricotta balls an irresistible crunch, while the inside stays light, fluffy, and cheesy.

The versatility of ricotta balls is another reason they’re so special. They can be served with a variety of sauces, from a classic marinara to a rich pesto or even a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You can also garnish them with fresh basil or other herbs to add a burst of color and flavor. No matter how you choose to serve them, these ricotta balls are sure to be a hit.

A Quick and Easy Recipe

One of the best things about ricotta balls is how quick and easy they are to make. The entire process—from mixing the ingredients to frying the balls—takes less than 30 minutes, making this a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still want to serve something impressive.

The process begins by mixing ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings in a bowl. Once everything is combined, the mixture is shaped into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture feels too sticky, a little more breadcrumbs can be added to help firm it up. The balls are then fried in hot olive oil until golden brown and crispy on all sides. A few minutes of frying is all it takes to turn these simple ingredients into a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ricotta balls can be served in many different ways, making them a great option for any occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire your next meal:

• With Marinara Sauce: For a classic experience, serve your ricotta balls with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy, tomato-based sauce complements the richness of the cheese, creating the perfect balance of flavors.

• With Fresh Herbs: For a simple, fresh twist, garnish your ricotta balls with a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley. The bright, herby flavor will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.

• As a Side Dish: Ricotta balls make an excellent side dish to accompany your favorite pasta or main course. They add a cheesy, flavorful component to the meal, and their crispy texture is a welcome contrast to softer dishes.

• As an Appetizer: Serve the ricotta balls as an appetizer at your next party or get-together. They’re easy to make in large batches, and everyone will love popping them into their mouths with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

• In a Salad: For a light yet satisfying meal, top a green salad with ricotta balls for a creamy, crispy addition that’s sure to elevate the dish. You can even drizzle a little balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

Healthier Variations

While ricotta balls are indulgent, there are ways to make them a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Baked Instead of Fried: To make the dish healthier, consider baking the ricotta balls instead of frying them. Simply place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle them lightly with olive oil, and bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

• Use Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: For a slightly healthier option, you can swap the regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat breadcrumbs. This adds a bit of fiber to the dish while maintaining the crispy texture.

• Use Low-Fat Ricotta: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese instead of whole milk ricotta. While the flavor and texture may be slightly different, you’ll still get that creamy richness in every bite.

Conclusion: A Simple and Delicious Dish

Ricotta Balls are the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s satisfying, comforting, and incredibly tasty. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, these ricotta balls will become a favorite in your home. Their crispy exterior, soft and cheesy interior, and versatility make them a dish that everyone will love.

So next time you’re looking for a simple yet impressive meal or snack, give these ricotta balls a try. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.