Jul 14 2026

Ricotta Balls Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Fresh ricotta balls hand-breaded and cooked to perfection on a bed of tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

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Ricotta Balls

Method

Preparing the Ricotta Balls

  1. 1

    Mix the Ricotta Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine the fresh ricotta cheese, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and a thick mixture forms.

  2. 2

    Shape the Balls

    Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper.

  3. 3

    Coat the Balls

    Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give them a crispy texture when cooked.

Cooking the Ricotta Balls

  1. 4

    Heat Olive Oil

    In a large skillet, heat ½ cup of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

  2. 5

    Fry the Balls

    Carefully add the ricotta balls to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Preparing the Tomato Sauce

  1. 6

    Sauté the Aromatics

    In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

  2. 7

    Simmer the Sauce

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

  3. 8

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the torn fresh basil before serving.

Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Spread a layer of tomato sauce on a serving platter. Arrange the fried ricotta balls on top of the sauce. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil.

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