Go Back
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Tender, juicy chicken meatballs perfectly complemented by creamy Alfredo sauce with the goodness of spinach. This dish brings together flavors that are rich, indulgent, and nourishing all at once.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese whole milk preferred
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese optional, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs optional
  • 3 cups Fresh spinach baby spinach preferred
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp Butter divided
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated for sauce
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Large pan or skillet
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese. Mix gently using a folding motion until just combined. Do not overmix or the meatballs will become tough.
  3. Roll the mixture into 12-16 evenly-sized meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least an inch apart.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  5. While the meatballs bake, heat 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted, then set aside.
  6. In a separate pan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  7. Pour heavy cream into the garlic butter and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  8. Gradually add 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  9. Add a pinch of nutmeg and black pepper to taste, stirring to combine.
  10. Once the meatballs are ready, gently place them in the pan with the Alfredo sauce. Add the sautéed spinach and stir everything together gently. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes so the meatballs can absorb the sauce.
  11. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, zucchini noodles, or with roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball ingredients or they will become tough. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety. Keep Alfredo sauce on low heat and stir often to prevent separation. Can use ground turkey as a lighter alternative to chicken. Store meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for best results.
QR Code linking back to recipe