Chicken Ricotta Meatballs With Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Easy Chicken Ricotta Meatballs With Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Juicy chicken ricotta meatballs pack a surprising punch of flavor that will make your taste buds dance.

Soft cheese and fresh herbs blend seamlessly inside each tender morsel.

Spinach alfredo sauce adds a creamy complement to these delightful protein-packed bites.

Italian-inspired ingredients create a meal that feels both comforting and elegant.

Home cooks can easily master this restaurant-quality dish with simple techniques.

Lean protein and vibrant greens combine for a nutritious dinner everyone will adore.

FAQs About Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute for chicken in this recipe, offering a similar texture and lean protein option.

  • How do I know the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring safe and thoroughly cooked meatballs.

  • Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to create a gluten-free version of the meatballs.

  • Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking, which helps save preparation time.

Why Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Are So Tasty

  • Craft Gourmet Comfort: Transform ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish that feels luxurious yet simple to prepare.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse Meal: Packed with protein from chicken and ricotta, complemented by nutrient-rich spinach for a balanced, wholesome dinner.
  • Quick Family Crowd-Pleaser: Customize easily for picky eaters, with meatballs and creamy sauce appealing to both kids and adults at the dinner table.
  • Versatile Weeknight Wonder: Adaptable recipe perfect for busy households, requiring minimal prep and delivering maximum flavor with straightforward ingredients.

Ingredients for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Protein Base:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile meat that provides the main protein for the meatballs.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Adds moisture and creamy texture to the meatball mixture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Brings a rich, salty flavor to enhance the meatballs.
Binding and Seasoning:
  • Egg: Helps bind the meatball ingredients together.
  • Breadcrumbs: Provides structure and helps absorb moisture in the meatballs.
  • Minced Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Adds depth of flavor and aromatic elements to the meatball mixture.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the Alfredo sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a smooth and luxurious texture to the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp and creamy flavor to the Alfredo sauce.
  • Spinach: Introduces a fresh, green element and nutritional boost to the sauce.

How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400F (200C) and get ready for some delicious magic.

Step 2: Create Meatball Magic

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Ground chicken
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Egg
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Minced garlic
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Italian seasoning

Mix everything together until well combined. Roll the mixture into cute little meatballs about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven and let the meatballs cook for 20-25 minutes. They’re done when they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked completely through.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dreamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around until it becomes fragrant and fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle Parmesan cheese. Stir and let the sauce simmer, thickening up for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Some Green Goodness

Toss chopped spinach into the creamy sauce. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts and becomes tender.

Step 6: Serve and Devour

Place your favorite pasta on a plate, nestle those gorgeous meatballs on top, and drench everything in the luscious spinach Alfredo sauce. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Pro Tips for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

  • Perfectly Portion Meatballs: Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to create uniform-sized meatballs, ensuring even cooking and consistent texture throughout.
  • Boost Moisture Retention: Add a splash of milk or water to the chicken mixture to prevent dry meatballs and maintain a tender, juicy interior.
  • Prevent Sticking Struggles: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with cooking spray to help meatballs release easily without breaking apart.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast breadcrumbs briefly in a dry skillet before mixing into the meatball mixture to develop a richer, nuttier taste profile.
  • Control Sauce Consistency: If the Alfredo sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a little pasta water or chicken broth to achieve the perfect silky texture.

Variation Ideas for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

  • Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap ricotta and Parmesan with nutritional yeast and almond flour, using coconut cream for the sauce to accommodate dairy-sensitive diets.
  • Turkey Meatball Swap: Substitute ground chicken with lean ground turkey for a similar protein-packed option with slightly different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Replace chicken with plant-based ground meat alternative, using tofu ricotta and vegetable broth to create a meatless version of the original recipe.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

  • Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wine: Select a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy Alfredo sauce and cut through the richness of the chicken meatballs.
  • Enhance with Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious spinach Alfredo sauce, adding a crunchy texture and complementary flavor to the dish.
  • Match with Fresh Arugula Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, creamy meatball dish and provide a fresh, peppery contrast.
  • Serve with Chilled Prosecco: Uncork a sparkling Prosecco to add a festive touch and cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy chicken meatballs.

Storage Advice for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

  • Store meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Place cooled meatballs and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Place meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of cream to restore sauce consistency.
  • Warm meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir gently to prevent breaking meatballs. Add a little chicken broth or cream if sauce seems dry.
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Chicken Ricotta Meatballs With Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs With Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
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Description

Succulent chicken ricotta meatballs dance in a creamy spinach alfredo sauce, creating a Mediterranean-inspired comfort dish. Irresistible flavors and tender texture invite you to savor each delightful bite of this homestyle Italian classic.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) ground chicken
  • 1 egg

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Binders:

  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 400F (200C), ensuring an ideal cooking environment for the meatballs.
  2. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground chicken with ricotta, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Shape the meat mixture into uniform 1-inch spherical meatballs, carefully arranging them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  4. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast meatballs for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway to ensure even golden-brown coloration and complete internal cooking.
  5. While meatballs are roasting, create the sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to become fragrant and slightly bubbling.
  6. Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, sautéing until its aroma intensifies and becomes slightly translucent.
  7. Gradually pour heavy cream into the garlic-butter mixture, stirring continuously and incorporating Parmesan cheese to develop a smooth, creamy consistency.
  8. Simmer the sauce for approximately 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop rich flavors.
  9. Fold chopped spinach into the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until the greens wilt and integrate seamlessly.
  10. Plate cooked pasta as a foundation, nestle roasted meatballs atop the pasta, and generously drizzle the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce over the entire dish.

Notes

  • Achieve juicy meatballs by using a combination of ground chicken and ricotta, which adds moisture and prevents dryness during baking.
  • Prevent sticking by using parchment paper or a silicone mat when baking meatballs, ensuring easy removal and even browning.
  • Control sauce thickness by gradually adding Parmesan cheese and adjusting heat, creating a smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.
  • Boost nutrition by incorporating finely chopped spinach directly into the sauce, adding extra vitamins and a vibrant green color.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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