On a hectic evening, Slow Cooker Ricotta Meatball Bake Recipe means tossing 1 pound ground beef, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker and walking away. A few hours later you sit down to a hot, filling dinner without standing over the stove.
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
I keep coming back to Slow Cooker Ricotta Meatball Bake Recipe because it fits a busy schedule and still tastes like a proper meal. Serve it with whatever you have on hand and adjust the spices to suit your family.
