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–+ servings

Open Faced Grilled Meatball and Ricotta Sliders

45 minutes
Serves 8
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Ingredients 

For the Smoked Ricotta:

  • 2 cups ricotta

For the Meatballs:

  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

For the Sliders:

  • 1 ciabatta loaf sliced lengthwise
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • 1 cup arrabbiata sauce
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
  • Fresh oregano leaves
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Directions 

  • _** If you do not have a pellet grill, you can skip this step! **_
  • Begin by preheating your Weber searwood grill to 200°F using cherry pellets to infuse a smoky flavor into the ricotta.Place the ricotta cheese in a cast iron skillet and set it on the grill. Smoke the ricotta at 200°F for about 30-45 minutes, or until it absorbs a pleasant smoky flavor. Once done, remove the ricotta from the grill and set it aside.
  • Prepare the meatballs. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, eggs, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into small meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter.
  • After removing the ricotta, increase the grill temperature to 450°F. Drizzle the sliced ciabatta loaf with olive oil and place the slices on the grill. Toast until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
  • Next, cook the meatballs. Place them on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char, about 10-12 minutes.
  • To assemble the sliders, spread a generous layer of arrabbiata sauce on the toasted ciabatta slices. Spoon the smoked ricotta on top of the sauce, then place the cooked meatballs on top of the ricotta. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh oregano leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
  • Finally, cut the ciabatta into square sliders and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious smoked ricotta meatball sliders!