Big Boy Meatballs

Big Boy Meatballs

These meatballs are not just any meatballs — they’re Big Boy Meatballs! Poached in a rich red wine and tomato sauce, then finished with creamy ricotta, this recipe takes comfort food to the next level.

The combination of beef, pork sausage, and parmesan gives these meatballs incredible flavour, while the ricotta adds a touch of indulgence. Whether served with spaghetti or stuffed into crusty bread, these Big Boy Meatballs are one of my absolute favourites — rustic, hearty, and full of flavour.

Timings

Prep time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes Serves: 4–6

Ingredients

• 400g minced beef

• 150g pork sausage meat

• 150g fresh breadcrumbs

• 100g parmesan, grated

• 200g ricotta

• 1 large free-range egg

• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 100ml red wine

• 1 x 400g tin of Italian chopped tomatoes, sieved

• 30g butter

Method

1. Preheat the ovenPreheat your oven to 180°C.

2. Make the meatball mixtureIn a large mixing bowl, combine the minced beef and pork sausage meat. Add the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, half of the ricotta, egg, chopped garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is fully combined.

3. Shape the meatballsDivide the mixture into 12 portions and, using wet hands, roll them into large meatballs.

4. Prepare the saucePlace the meatballs in an ovenproof dish and pour in the red wine and chopped tomatoes so that the liquid covers the bottom of the dish. The meatballs will brown on top while gently poaching underneath for that perfect texture.

5. BakePlace the dish in the preheated oven uncovered. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has reduced to a rich, thick consistency.

6. Finish and serveOnce cooked, remove from the oven and stir in the butter. Dot the remaining ricotta over the top and let the dish rest for a few minutes.

   Serve with spaghetti for a hearty Italian-inspired meal, or pile into toasted ciabatta rolls for an irresistible sandwich.