Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a delightful combination of tender, flavorful meatballs and a creamy, rich spinach Alfredo sauce. This recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner that feels both comforting and indulgent. The ricotta cheese adds a light creaminess to the chicken meatballs, while the spinach Alfredo sauce is smooth and flavorful, bringing the dish together beautifully.

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These meatballs are versatile and pair perfectly with pasta, or they can be served on their own as a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a new dinner idea or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The meatballs are packed with Italian flavors, and the Alfredo sauce, infused with fresh spinach, adds a touch of freshness and color to the plate.

The Unique Appeal of Chicken Ricotta Meatballs  

The combination of chicken and ricotta gives these meatballs a tender, moist texture that sets them apart from traditional meatballs. The ricotta cheese helps keep the meatballs light, while the Parmesan adds a savory, umami flavor. These meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic, giving them a burst of flavor with every bite. Paired with the rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is both satisfying and flavorful, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

A Quick History of Alfredo Sauce  

Alfredo sauce originated in Italy in the early 20th century, created by a chef named Alfredo di Lelio in Rome. Traditionally, it was made with butter and Parmesan cheese. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, particularly in the United States, where cream is often added to create the creamy texture we know today. This version of Alfredo sauce, enhanced with fresh spinach, adds both nutrition and a pop of color to the dish.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try  

This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken ricotta meatballs are soft and flavorful, while the spinach Alfredo sauce is creamy and rich. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with your favorite pasta or enjoyed on its own. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the depth of flavor makes this recipe a must-try for anyone who enjoys Italian-inspired meals.

Nutritional Information for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce (Per Serving, Serves 4)  

• Calories: 540 kcal  
• Protein: 35g  
• Fat: 34g  
• Carbohydrates: 20g  
• Sugar: 2g  
• Sodium: 620mg  

Serving Suggestions to Elevate the Dish  

Serve the meatballs over a bed of your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, to soak up all the creamy Alfredo sauce. You can garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor. Additionally, a side of garlic bread would complement the richness of the sauce. For a lighter option, you could serve the meatballs with a simple salad of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Storage Information to Keep Your Meatballs Fresh  

You can store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. If you’d like to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Extra Tip to Enhance Your Meatballs  

For an extra layer of flavor, try browning the meatballs in a skillet before baking them. This will create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. You can also experiment with different cheeses in the sauce, such as Pecorino Romano, for a sharper, more intense flavor.

Photo byE Kent

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe  

Ingredients:  

For the Meatballs:  

• - 1 lb ground chicken  
• - ½ cup ricotta cheese  
• - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese  
• - 1 egg  
• - ½ cup breadcrumbs  
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced  
• - Salt and pepper, to taste  
• - 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning  

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:  

• - 2 tablespoons butter  
• - 1 clove garlic, minced  
• - 1 cup heavy cream  
• - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese  
• - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped  
• - Salt and pepper, to taste  

For Serving:  

• - Cooked pasta (optional)

Instructions:  

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the spinach Alfredo sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

6. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

7. Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the sauce, gently coating them in the spinach Alfredo sauce.

9. Serve the meatballs over your cooked pasta of choice, or enjoy them on their own with a side of garlic bread.

Enjoy this creamy and flavorful dish that combines the lightness of chicken ricotta meatballs with the richness of spinach Alfredo sauce!