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

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk. Add ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked and golden.
5. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
6. Add heavy cream and simmer, then stir in Parmesan until smooth.
7. Add chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Add baked meatballs to the sauce, coating them gently.
9. Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta, rice, or with bread, garnished with extra Parmesan and 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.