Print

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs smothered in a creamy Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Freshly prepared baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach Alfredo sauce

These baked chicken ricotta meatballs are tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy spinach Alfredo sauce for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for baking)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce)
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Form the mixture into 18-20 evenly sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the meatballs.
  4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the spinach Alfredo sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add chopped spinach, cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  9. Once meatballs are done, transfer them to the skillet with the spinach Alfredo sauce, gently coating them in the sauce.
  10. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Notes

For a low-carb option, serve these meatballs over zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower rice.