Sprinkle in the ricotta cheese then crack in the egg. Use your hands or a ground beef mixer to combine the ingredients.
Add in the breadcrumbs, then the Parmesan cheese, basil, lemon zest, and seasonings.
Once all ingredients are well-combined, portion the meatballs into 1 to 2 tablespoon-sized balls and roll between your hands until they form smooth meatballs.
Frying Pan:
Set the formed meatballs into a clean plate. Place 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan, and once hot, add the meatballs. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning to brown all over.
Oven:
Place the formed meatballs in a casserole dish. Bake at 350F for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Notes
Fresh Herbs: Spruce up your meatballs with some fresh herbs. Try rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
Different Cheeses: You can try adding different cheeses to your meatballs, like pecorino.
Meatballs in Tomato Sauce: Make ricotta meatballs with simple tomato sauce. Simmer some sauce in the pan with your meatballs, then grate some cheese overtop. Serve the tender meatballs in the sauce.