Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs and Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a dish that transforms an ordinary evening into a culinary adventure. Imagine sinking your fork into tender meatballs filled with creamy ricotta cheese, swimming in a velvety spinach Alfredo sauce that wraps around your taste buds like a cozy blanket on a cold night.
When I first attempted this dish, I was skeptical—could chicken meatballs really rival their beefy counterparts? Spoiler alert: they can! The moment I pulled them from the oven, bubbling and aromatic, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests on game night.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These chicken ricotta meatballs are simple to prepare while delivering an explosion of flavor
- The rich alfredo sauce adds visual appeal and complements the savory meat perfectly
- They are versatile enough for any occasion and provide a healthy twist on traditional meatballs
Every time I serve these delightful meatballs, my friends rave about them! One time, my friend Lisa took one bite and declared it “life-changing”—and who am I to argue with that?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Chicken: Use lean ground chicken for healthier meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for fresh ricotta; it adds creaminess that makes the meatballs irresistible.
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green spinach; it’s packed with nutrients and color.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives depth to both the meatballs and alfredo sauce.
- Eggs: Use large eggs to bind the ingredients together for perfectly shaped meatballs.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic flavor; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Pasta of Your Choice: Serve your meatballs over your favorite pasta for a complete meal!
- Heavy Cream: Essential for creating that luscious alfredo sauce; treat yourself!
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple yet vital; they elevate the flavors of every ingredient.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. You want those delicious juices from the meatballs contained!
Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined but don’t overdo it—keep those meatballs light!
Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands (it’s messy but fun), form small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet so they can bake without getting too chummy.
Bake the Meatballs: Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they smell divine!
Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant; then pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously until it thickens slightly.
Add Spinach and Cheese: Toss in fresh spinach along with more grated Parmesan cheese into your creamy mixture. Stir until the spinach wilts down beautifully—this sauce is all about indulgence!
Now you have made scrumptious Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs swimming in luscious spinach Alfredo sauce! Serve over pasta or enjoy as is—they’re just as good straight from the pan (I won’t tell if you don’t).
This dish not only tantalizes taste buds but also fills hearts with warmth during dinner gatherings. So gather your loved ones around the table—and prepare for compliments galore!
You Must Know
- Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs and Spinach Alfredo Sauce make dinner a breeze!
- These juicy meatballs are packed with flavor, while the creamy sauce brings everything together
- It’s a comforting dish that pleases both kids and adults alike
- Prepare for delicious leftovers too!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the chicken and ricotta, then form meatballs. While they bake, prepare the spinach Alfredo sauce for a seamless cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add herbs like basil for extra flavor. You can even toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on low heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your meatballs hold together, avoid over-mixing them
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizing, which helps them cook evenly
- Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to develop rich flavors that complement the meatballs beautifully
Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where we devoured these meatballs. My cousin once said they could rival their favorite restaurant’s dish!
FAQ
Can I freeze Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to three months.
What can I serve with Spinach Alfredo Sauce?
Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or pasta for a complete meal.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container.
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs and Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a delightful dish featuring tender meatballs and a creamy sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh spinach
- Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Pasta of your choice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, minced garlic, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add garlic and sauté.
- Stir in heavy cream until slightly thickened, then add spinach and additional Parmesan until wilted.
- Serve meatballs over pasta topped with spinach Alfredo sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
