
This Slow Cooker Ricotta Meatball Bake is a delicious and easy dish that combines tender meatballs with creamy ricotta cheese and marinara sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to prepare a hearty meal with minimal effort.
Ideal for fans of Crockpot Recipes, this dish is packed with flavor and can be served over pasta, rice, or enjoyed on its own. It’s a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Easy Slow Cooker Ricotta Meatball Bake
This recipe features juicy meatballs made with ground beef and ricotta cheese, slow-cooked in marinara sauce until tender. The dish takes about 6 hours to cook on low and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the meatballs on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over them.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meatballs and cover to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot over pasta, rice, or on its own.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
