Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of tender, cheesy chicken meatballs bathed in a creamy, spinach-infused Alfredo sauce. This recipe takes classic Italian flavors and gives them a rich, velvety twist—perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a special occasion.

These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are incredibly soft and flavorful, thanks to the ricotta cheese, which keeps them moist and delicate. The Spinach Alfredo Sauce adds a luscious, creamy texture with a hint of nuttiness from Parmesan, making every bite absolutely irresistible. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens while keeping everyone at the table happy—including picky eaters!

Pair this dish with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, serve these meatballs over buttery mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a bed of al dente pasta. No matter how you enjoy it, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour (regular or gluten-free)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense, so be sure to stir just until combined.

Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil to help them brown beautifully while baking. Place the tray in the oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

While the meatballs are in the oven, prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then stir in the flour to create a smooth roux. Whisk continuously for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to ensure a lump-free sauce. Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. The nutmeg enhances the creaminess of the sauce and gives it a warm depth of flavor.

Once the cheese has fully melted, add the chopped spinach and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until wilted. The sauce should be smooth, rich, and full of flavor.

Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Pour the warm, creamy Spinach Alfredo Sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Tips and Conclusion

⭐ Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
⭐ Sneaky Spinach Trick: If you have picky eaters, blend the spinach into the sauce for a creamy, green Alfredo that hides the greens!
⭐ Add a Zesty Twist: A little lemon zest in the meatballs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the sauce gives a bright and flavorful contrast.
⭐ Extra Cheesy Option: Love cheese? Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra melty topping.
⭐ Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce bring together everything you love about Italian comfort food in one easy, irresistible dish. Whether you're serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out more of our delicious, easy-to-make meals. Don’t forget to share your creations with us and let us know how it turned out! ❤️