Cast Iron Meatballs Recipe
Rustic tomato basil, whipped ricotta
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Ingredients
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Meatballs
Tomato Basil Sauce
Whipped Ricotta
Method
Meatballs Preparation
- 1
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- 2
Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
- 3
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the sauce.
Tomato Basil Sauce Preparation
- 4
- 5
Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- 6
Combine and Cook
Once the sauce simmers, gently place the meatballs into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Whipped Ricotta Preparation
- 7
Blend the Ricotta
In a food processor, combine ricotta cheese, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
- 8
Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
Serving
- 9
Plate the Dish
Serve the meatballs with the tomato basil sauce spooned over them, and dollop the whipped ricotta on top. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.