Zucchini Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

Zucchini Ricotta Meatballs are the perfect fusion of fresh vegetables and creamy cheese, creating light, crispy bites that everyone will adore. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main, these golden meatballs are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. They make a delightful option for family dinners, parties, or casual gatherings.

What Are Zucchini Ricotta Meatballs?

Zucchini ricotta meatballs are a vegetarian twist on classic meatballs. Instead of meat, they feature grated zucchini, creamy ricotta cheese, and Parmesan, all bound together with breadcrumbs and egg. Lightly fried to golden perfection, they deliver a crispy outside with a tender, cheesy interior. Often enjoyed in Mediterranean and Italian-inspired dishes, they’ve become a popular choice for modern vegetarian cooking.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

These zucchini ricotta meatballs offer the ultimate combination of crisp texture and rich, savory flavor. They’re quick to make and use simple ingredients that are often already in your kitchen. Plus, they're a great way to use up extra zucchini—and even picky eaters will love them!

Pro Tips for the Best Zucchini Ricotta Meatballs

1. Drain the zucchini well: Excess water will make the mixture too wet—press firmly to extract as much liquid as possible.
2. Choose a quality ricotta: Use a thick, well-drained ricotta for the best texture.
3. Season generously: Zucchini has a mild flavor, so don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Fry at the right temperature: Medium heat is ideal—too hot and the outside will brown too quickly; too low and they’ll absorb excess oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?

Yes! For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. You can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 1 day before frying.

What Can I Serve with Zucchini Ricotta Meatballs?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, a simple salad, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread.

What Is the Best Way to Grate Zucchini for This Recipe?

Use a medium-hole box grater for best texture. Finer grating can make the mixture too wet, while larger shreds may not bind as well.

Why Are My Meatballs Falling Apart?

If your mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it. Also, be sure to squeeze the zucchini thoroughly.

How to Freeze

After frying and cooling, place the meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 12–15 minutes.

How to Store

Allow the meatballs to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore their crispness.

How To Make Zucchini Ricotta Meatballs

Step 1

Step 1

Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Grate using a medium-hole grater. Place in a colander over a bowl to drain excess liquid. Press firmly to remove as much water as possible. Transfer to a mixing bowl.

Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Grate using a medium-hole grater. Place in a colander over a bowl to drain excess liquid. Press firmly to remove as much water as possible. Transfer to a mixing bowl.

Step 2

Step 2

To the bowl, add ricotta, Parmesan, thyme, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

To the bowl, add ricotta, Parmesan, thyme, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3

Step 3

Scoop about 20 grams of the mixture and shape into meatballs using your hands. Roll each meatball in flour to coat.

Scoop about 20 grams of the mixture and shape into meatballs using your hands. Roll each meatball in flour to coat.

Step 4

Step 4

Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until golden brown on all sides.

Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until golden brown on all sides.

Step 5

Step 5

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm on a platter and enjoy!

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm on a platter and enjoy!