Description
Delicate and tender lemon ricotta meatballs simmered in a bright and zesty tomato sauce. A flavorful twist on classic Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Form mixture into small meatballs and place on a plate.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden (they will finish cooking in the sauce).
- Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Stir in fresh basil and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Use ground pork or beef if preferred for a richer flavor.
- Make ahead and freeze meatballs and sauce separately for easy meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (4-5 meatballs with sauce)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: lemon ricotta meatballs, tomato sauce meatballs, Italian comfort food, chicken meatball recipe