Ricotta Cheese Balls
Creamy ricotta cheese balls infused with spinach and Parmesan, coated in flour, cooked until floating, then baked with marinara sauce for a savory, cheesy appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ricotta cheese, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, and drained chopped spinach in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into meatball-sized balls and roll each in flour.
- Place the coated balls on a flat dish, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour or overnight.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the balls in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes until they float on top.
- Transfer the cooked balls to a casserole dish, cover with marinara sauce, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, use part-skim ricotta cheese. If you prefer a different flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or parsley to the mixture. You can also substitute the plain bread crumbs with seasoned ones for extra taste. If you're short on time, skip the refrigeration step, but letting them chill helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ricotta cheese balls hot, drizzled with marinara sauce. They pair wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a complete Italian feast, consider serving them alongside Pesto Lasagna or Eggplant Parmigiana Casserole to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ricotta cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option, but the oven will keep them crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ricotta Cheese Balls contains roughly 977 calories, with 34g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1210mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach; just make sure to cook and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the mixture. About 1 cup of fresh spinach will yield the same amount as 10 oz. of frozen chopped spinach after cooking.
Can I bake these instead of boiling them?
Absolutely! If you prefer baking, place the formed balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
What can I serve with ricotta cheese balls?
These ricotta cheese balls are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with marinara sauce. For a more filling meal, pair them with pasta like Fettuccine Al Fresco or a side of roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish further.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).