If you’re looking for a delicious, creamy, and protein-packed dish that will impress your family and guests, look no further than these Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce. The combination of tender chicken meatballs infused with creamy ricotta and a velvety spinach Alfredo sauce makes this a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for weeknight cooking.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of ricotta in the meatballs and a creamy Alfredo sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs with pasta, rice, or even as a standalone dish with bread for dipping.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that both kids and adults will love.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch in advance and store leftovers for later.
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, gently coating them in the sauce.
- Serve immediately over pasta, zucchini noodles, or with a side of crusty bread.
- Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add More Flavor: Stir in red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to enhance the taste.
- Substitutions: Swap chicken for ground turkey or even lean beef if preferred.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve over gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked shrimp or diced grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the meatballs separately for up to 3 months. Reheat them in a skillet with fresh Alfredo sauce before serving.
Reheating: Warm the meatballs and sauce over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the richness of the sauce.
- Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple Caesar salad.
- Beverage: A refreshing lemonade or iced tea balances the creamy flavors.
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
2. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce can be used instead of homemade.
3. How do I prevent my meatballs from being dry?
The ricotta cheese keeps them moist, but be sure not to overbake them. Check for doneness at the 18-minute mark.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a gourmet touch. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying—perfect for a cozy meal at home.
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