Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or pork, or turkey)
  • 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup (240g) ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined, but do not overwork the mixture.
  2. Chill the mixture for about 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Using wet hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C).
  4. In a small saucepan, combine ricotta cheese, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Warm over low heat, stirring gently until creamy and heated through.
  5. Place meatballs in a bowl, spoon over the ricotta sauce, and garnish with fresh basil.