Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

A Creamy and Comforting Italian-Inspired Dish

Chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach Alfredo sauce bring together the best of Italian comfort food. Juicy, tender meatballs infused with creamy ricotta are simmered in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce enhanced with fresh spinach. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra Tender Meatballs: The ricotta keeps the meatballs incredibly moist and soft.
• Rich and Velvety Sauce: The Alfredo sauce is creamy and packed with flavor from garlic, Parmesan, and spinach.
• Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well and reheat beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
4. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
5. Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the Alfredo sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Serve over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to the sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs separately for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How do I keep chicken meatballs from being dry?

Ricotta cheese adds moisture, but avoid overcooking them to keep them tender.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What pasta pairs best with this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or pappardelle are excellent choices to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for chicken.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce will be less rich.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the meatballs and serve with gluten-free pasta.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes! A bit of shredded mozzarella can be mixed into the meatballs or sauce for extra creaminess.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Conclusion

Chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach Alfredo sauce are a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Try it with your favorite pasta or a side of garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired feast!

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