Introduction

These baked chicken ricotta meatballs are tender and flavorful, perfectly paired with a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. This comforting dish makes for an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

The image shows a white bowl filled with round meatballs covered in a baked, creamy sauce. Each meatball sits on a layer of dark green spinach, visible underneath the golden brown cheese topping that looks bubbly and slightly crispy. The sauce is smooth and white, filling the spaces around the meatballs, making the dish look rich and warm. Some small green herbs are sprinkled lightly on top for a fresh touch. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground chicken
1/2 cup (125g) ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 egg
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Pinch of nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into 12-16 equal-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: While the meatballs bake, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted. Remove spinach from the skillet and set aside.
Step 6: In the same skillet, melt additional butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 7: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 8: Add the wilted spinach back into the sauce and stir to combine well.
Step 9: Gently place the baked meatballs into the spinach Alfredo sauce. Simmer for a couple of minutes to coat the meatballs thoroughly.
Step 10: Serve the meatballs hot over pasta, zucchini noodles, or enjoy them on their own with crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
For added flavor, try mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the meatball mixture.
If you prefer, cook the meatballs in a skillet on the stove instead of baking for a crispier exterior.
Substitute fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different taste and texture.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat through evenly. Avoid overheating to keep the sauce creamy and the meatballs tender.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with round meatballs covered with melted cheese. The meatballs have a golden-brown top layer with creamy melted cheese that looks slightly browned. Underneath the cheese, there is a layer of green spinach mixed into the meat. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. The meatballs are tightly packed and look moist and soft. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze these chicken ricotta meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by baking at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, zucchini noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.