These Ricotta and Zucchini Balls are a light, vegetarian main course that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Whether you're looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meatless meal, or a party appetizer, these savory bites are perfect. Made with fresh zucchini, creamy ricotta, and simple pantry ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and even easier to love. Best of all? You can bake or air-fry them for a lighter, no-fuss option.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—such a satisfying texture!
- Great as a main course, appetizer, or side dish.
- Air fryer friendly for a healthier, mess-free cooking method.
- Kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters.
- Packed with fresh veggies and protein-rich ricotta.
What Are Ricotta and Zucchini Balls?
Ricotta and zucchini balls are a popular Italian-inspired vegetarian dish made by combining cooked zucchini, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings into soft patties or balls. They are lightly rolled in breadcrumbs and either baked or air-fried to golden perfection. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and crowd-pleasing flavor. Serve them as a light lunch, in a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Zucchini and Ricotta Balls
- Sauté the zucchini with garlic and shallot to bring out maximum flavor.
- After cooking, let the zucchini cool slightly before mixing with ricotta to avoid a watery mixture.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a few more tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
- Want extra crispiness? Spray with olive oil before baking or air frying.
- Add herbs like basil, parsley, or mint for a fresh twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes on a parchment-lined tray, flipping halfway through.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is firm and not too wet. Chilling the shaped balls for 10–15 minutes before cooking also helps them hold their shape.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking or air-frying.
Are these gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
What dipping sauce goes well with these?
Try marinara, tzatziki, or a lemony yogurt sauce for a zesty contrast.
How to Store Ricotta and Zucchini Balls
Let the patties cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (180°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
How to Freeze Ricotta and Zucchini Balls
To freeze before cooking, arrange the shaped patties on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. You can cook them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.
To freeze after cooking, cool completely, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crisp.
Ingredients
How to Make Ricotta and Zucchini Balls
Wash and dice the zucchini into small cubes. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the zucchini with garlic and shallot for about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Wash and dice the zucchini into small cubes. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the zucchini with garlic and shallot for about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
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In a large bowl, combine ricotta, grated cheese, egg, and the cooked zucchini. Season with salt and pepper. Add 6–7 tablespoons of breadcrumbs and mix well. The texture should be soft but shapeable.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, grated cheese, egg, and the cooked zucchini. Season with salt and pepper. Add 6–7 tablespoons of breadcrumbs and mix well. The texture should be soft but shapeable.
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Scoop a small portion of the mixture and shape into balls or patties. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Scoop a small portion of the mixture and shape into balls or patties. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
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Air fryer: Place the balls in the basket and cook at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air fryer: Place the balls in the basket and cook at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
Once golden brown, they’re ready to enjoy!
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