Cozy Chicken Ricotta Meatballs In Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Comfort food reaches new heights with these irresistible chicken ricotta meatballs nestled in a creamy spinach alfredo sauce.

Tender, juicy meatballs packed with rich ricotta cheese dance delicately in a velvety sauce that whispers pure indulgence.

Each bite promises a perfect blend of savory chicken and smooth, herbaceous flavors.

The ricotta adds a delightful lightness to the meatballs, making them surprisingly delicate yet satisfying.

Weeknight dinners transform into gourmet experiences with this simple yet elegant dish.

Cheese lovers and protein enthusiasts will fall head over heels for this creamy, protein-packed meal that comes together in under an hour.

Prepare to elevate your dinner game with a recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute with the same texture and flavor profile for these meatballs.

• How do I prevent meatballs from becoming dry?

Use ricotta cheese and don’t overmix the meat mixture. This helps keep the meatballs moist and tender during baking.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a replacement.

• Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the meatballs in advance, then store them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the sauce when ready to serve.

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs in Spinach Alfredo: Reasons to Love

• Combine tender chicken meatballs with creamy spinach Alfredo sauce for a mouthwatering flavor explosion that elevates traditional pasta dishes.
• Easily prepare restaurant-quality meal with straightforward steps, minimal kitchen equipment, and quick assembly of ingredients.
• Deliver a delicious one-pan meal that satisfies both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
• Incorporate protein-rich chicken, calcium-packed ricotta, and nutrient-dense spinach for a wholesome meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

What’s in Chicken Ricotta Meatballs & Spinach Alfredo

• Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile protein that forms the core of the meatballs.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds moisture and creamy texture to the meatball mixture.
• Egg: Helps bind the meatball ingredients together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich, savory flavor to the meatballs.

• Breadcrumbs, Milk: Create a soft texture and help hold the meatballs together.
• Onion, Garlic: Offer depth and aromatic base to the meatball mixture.
• Parsley, Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add fresh and tangy notes to the meatball flavor profile.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a classic herbal blend to the meatball mixture.

• Bacon: Provides a smoky and crispy element to the dish.
• Butter, Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Create the rich and creamy Alfredo sauce base.
• Baby Spinach: Adds nutrition and a fresh green component to the sauce.
• Salt, Pepper: Season and balance the overall flavor of the dish.

Tools for Crafting Perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

• Food Processor: Essential for finely chopping vegetables quickly and evenly.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining meatball ingredients and mixing thoroughly.
• Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper for even cooking and easy cleanup of meatballs.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for preparing the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce and finishing the dish.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps accurately measure ingredients for consistent results.
• Cooking Spray: Used to lightly coat meatballs for better browning and preventing sticking.
• Whisk: Helps blend sauce ingredients smoothly and prevent lumps.
• Sharp Knife: Useful for chopping parsley and preparing garnishes.

How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs in Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Mix Breadcrumb Base

In a medium bowl, pour milk over breadcrumbs and let them soak and soften for a couple minutes.

Step 2: Chop Flavor Boosters

• Onion
• Garlic
• Fresh parsley
• Sun-dried tomatoes

Step 3: Create Meatball Magic

• Ground chicken
• Soaked breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt

Gently mix ingredients until just combined to keep meatballs tender.

Step 4: Shape And Prepare Meatballs

Roll mixture into 18-20 round meatballs, each about 2.5 inches wide.

Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide baking sheet into a 450F oven.

Bake 15-20 minutes until exterior is crispy and interior is fully cooked.

Step 6: Build Luxurious Sauce

In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp.

• Melt butter
• Saute minced garlic
• Pour heavy cream
• Season with salt and pepper
• Whisk in Parmesan cheese
• Add baby spinach and cook until wilted

Step 7: Combine And Finish

Drop baked meatballs into sauce, simmering for 2 minutes to marry flavors.

Step 8: Elegant Plating

Serve over pasta, garnishing with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.

Tips for Juicy Meatballs and Creamy Alfredo Sauce

• Let breadcrumbs absorb milk for exactly 2 minutes to ensure meatballs stay moist and tender without becoming soggy.
• Mix ingredients just until combined to prevent tough, dense meatballs that lose their delicate texture.
• Crisp bacon adds smoky depth to the alfredo sauce and provides a delicious garnish that elevates the entire dish.
• Watch closely during baking and remove from oven when exterior is crisp and golden to maintain juicy chicken interior.
• Add spinach to sauce at the last moment, cooking just until wilted to preserve its bright color and nutritional value.

Variations for Spinach Alfredo Chicken Meatballs

• Vegetarian Meatball Delight: Replace ground chicken with plant-based crumbles or lentils, using egg substitute for binding. Perfect for those avoiding meat.
• Gluten-Free Comfort: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce for a celiac-friendly version.
• Low-Carb Spinach Sensation: Skip pasta and serve meatballs over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Reduce breadcrumbs and use more ricotta for extra moisture.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Remix: Add crumbled feta cheese to meatball mixture. Replace sun-dried tomatoes with kalamata olives. Sprinkle with fresh oregano for a Greek-style twist.

Serving Chicken Ricotta Meatballs for Dinner

• Pasta Paradise: Serve these delectable meatballs over fettuccine or linguine for a classic Italian-inspired meal that captures restaurant-quality flavors.
• Rustic Bread Companion: Pair with crusty garlic bread or warm ciabatta to soak up the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce, creating a delightful dining experience.
• Veggie Balance Boost: Add a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to complement the rich and creamy meatball dish with fresh, light elements.
• Fresh Herb Finale: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving to enhance the dish's aroma and add a bright, fresh finishing touch.

Storing Chicken Ricotta Meatballs in Alfredo Sauce

• Store meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pack cooled meatballs and sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags. Freeze for maximum 2-3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place meatballs and sauce in microwave-safe dish. Cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs In Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Succulent chicken ricotta meatballs swim gracefully in a creamy spinach alfredo sauce that elevates Italian comfort cuisine. Hearty flavors blend seamlessly, offering a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein and Base Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds (700 grams) ground chicken or turkey
• 6 ounces (170 grams) whole milk ricotta
• 1 large egg
• 6 bacon strips

Flavor and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, very finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste

Sauce Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cooking cream (35% fat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 5 ounces (150 grams) baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450F (235C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring even heat distribution.
2. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 2 minutes to enhance moisture and texture of the meatballs.
3. Pulse onion, garlic, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes in a food processor until finely chopped, creating a flavor-packed vegetable base.
4. Combine vegetable mixture with ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, ricotta, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt in a large bowl, mixing gently to maintain meatball tenderness.
5. Form 18-20 uniform meatballs approximately 2.5 inches in diameter, placing them on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spraying with cooking oil.
6. Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes until exterior is crisp and internal temperature reaches safe cooking point.
7. In a large skillet, crisp bacon, then remove. Use the same pan to melt butter, quickly sauté minced garlic, then whisk in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Parmesan until smooth. Add baby spinach and cook until wilted.
8. Gently incorporate baked meatballs into the spinach Alfredo sauce, simmering for 2 minutes to marry flavors.
9. Plate over preferred pasta, garnishing with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley for added texture and visual appeal.

Notes

• Moisture Trick: Soak breadcrumbs in milk to ensure incredibly tender and juicy meatballs that won’t dry out during baking.
• Mixing Technique: Gently combine meatball ingredients without overmixing to prevent tough, dense texture and maintain a light, delicate consistency.
• Protein Flexibility: Easily swap ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef for different flavor profiles while maintaining similar cooking methods.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Replace traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to create a lower-carbohydrate version of this delicious dish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 547
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 745 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 22 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 171 mg