Description

Indulge in the delightful fusion of tender chicken ricotta meatballs nestled in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. This dish brings together the lightness of ground chicken, the richness of ricotta cheese, and the vibrant flavors of spinach, all enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
• 1.5 pounds ground chicken
• ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Method

Prepare the Meatballs:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk until softened. Add the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake: Cook the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly golden.

Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Incorporate Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Place the baked meatballs into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, gently coating them with the sauce.

Serve: Dish the meatballs and sauce over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating crispy bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes into the Alfredo sauce. These additions provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce and tender meatballs.

Conclusion:

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, offering a comforting and satisfying meal. The tender meatballs paired with the rich, creamy sauce make for a dish that's both indulgent and wholesome. Serve it at your next family gathering or dinner party, and watch it become a beloved favorite. For more delicious recipes, explore our collection of Italian-inspired dishes that bring warmth and joy to your table.