Ingredients
For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The Alfredo sauce adds indulgent flavor to tender meatballs.
- Healthy Twist: Ricotta and spinach boost the nutrition while keeping it light.
- Versatile: Pair with pasta, rice, or enjoy as a low-carb dish.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike!
How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
2. Shape and Cook the Meatballs
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a cookie scoop.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil.
- Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg (if using), whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Meatballs and Sauce
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
5. Serve and Garnish
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Pair with fettuccine or spaghetti for a classic Italian vibe.
- With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Tips for the Best Meatballs
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so mix until just combined.
- Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs that cook consistently.
- Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
- Freeze: Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Whether served for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Let me know how yours turn out—and feel free to share your favorite pairings or creative twists! 🍝✨