Delicious Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo

The aroma of baked chicken ricotta meatballs and spinach Alfredo sauce wafts through the air like a warm hug from your grandma. Picture those golden-brown meatballs gently nestled in a creamy pool of luscious spinach Alfredo—now that’s what I call comfort food. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds, and trust me, you’ll want to make this dish again and again.

I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during one of my frantic weeknight cooking escapades. It turned out to be a hidden gem that not only sparked joy at the dinner table but also turned my picky eater into a full-fledged fan of meatballs—who knew? Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy gathering or just craving something delicious on a rainy Tuesday night, these baked chicken ricotta meatballs will elevate any occasion.

Nothing beats the ecstatic cheers from my family when I first served these meatballs. The kids were practically fighting over who got the last one.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for tender meatballs without excess fat.
• Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for creaminess and flavor; it’s the secret ingredient here.
• Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green spinach leaves for maximum freshness and nutrition.
• Pasta (optional): Your choice of pasta can serve as a hearty base; I prefer fettuccine.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for that extra depth; it’s worth the effort.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch to both the meatballs and sauce.
• Alfredo Sauce Ingredients: Heavy cream, butter, and more cheese create that silky texture we crave.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather all your ingredients. This ensures everything is ready when you start mixing.

Mixing the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan until well blended.

Forming Meatballs: Using your hands (get messy.), shape mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between them.

Baking Time: Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Prepare Spinach Alfredo Sauce: While the meatballs bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic until fragrant then stir in heavy cream and remaining Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Add Spinach to Sauce: Toss in fresh spinach leaves into your creamy sauce. Stir until wilted but still vibrant; this typically takes around 2-3 minutes.

Now you’ve got deliciously baked chicken ricotta meatballs swimming in heavenly spinach Alfredo sauce. Serve them over pasta or simply enjoy them straight from the pan—no judgment here.

Remember to take those Instagram-worthy pictures before diving in because trust me; these beauties won’t last long on your plate.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ricotta with the chicken and seasonings before shaping the meatballs. While they bake, prepare the Alfredo sauce, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly for a delightful dinner.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in ground turkey or add your favorite herbs like basil or oregano. Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor punch that takes this dish to the next level.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Making this dish has become a cherished tradition in my home; I still remember my friends’ delighted faces when they took their first bites at a dinner party last fall.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese works as an excellent substitute if you’re looking for lower fat options.

Can I freeze baked chicken ricotta meatballs?

Absolutely. Freeze them before baking for easy meal prep later on.

How long do leftovers last in the refrigerator?

They stay fresh in an airtight container for about three days—if they last that long.