Calabrian Ricotta Balls in Tomato Sauce

3️⃣ Simmer in Tomato Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat until it begins to simmer. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce — a thick, rich tomato base works best.
2. Gently add the fried ricotta balls to the simmering sauce, coating them evenly.
3. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the ricotta balls to absorb some of the sauce’s flavor while remaining slightly crispy on the outside.

4️⃣ Serve & Garnish

1. Transfer the ricotta balls and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. Serve hot as an appetizer with crusty bread, or as a main dish over spaghetti or polenta for a heartier meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of Calabrian chili paste to the sauce.
• Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
• Bake instead of fry for a lighter version — place the balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 | Calories: ~320 kcal per serving

With their creamy centers, spicy kick, and rich tomato coating, these Calabrian Ricotta Balls in Tomato Sauce bring Southern Italian flair to your table — comfort food with a fiery twist. 🇮🇹🔥🍅