Wholesome and Delicious: Chicken Ricotta Balls in a Spinach Alfredo Sauce You'll Love

Photo byMK Madhavi

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels both hearty and elegant, these Savory Chicken Ricotta Balls with Creamy Spinach Alfredo will hit the spot. These tender meatballs, made with a blend of ground chicken, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, are the perfect combination of light and savory. When paired with a rich, garlicky spinach Alfredo sauce, this meal delivers a burst of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

A Perfect Blend of Creaminess and Flavor
Imagine biting into a soft, cheesy meatball with a golden brown crust, just enough to give it that satisfying texture. The ricotta adds a subtle creaminess that melts into every bite, while the garlic and Italian seasoning give it that classic Italian flair. As the meatballs simmer in a creamy Alfredo sauce packed with Parmesan and fresh spinach, the whole dish comes together in a symphony of flavors that taste indulgent yet fresh.

The Chicken Ricotta Balls are perfect for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. Pair them with your favorite pasta, rice, or even toasted bread to soak up that creamy spinach Alfredo sauce.

Recipe: Savory Chicken Ricotta Balls with Creamy Spinach Alfredo

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken (or turkey)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Directions:

1. Mix the Meatball Magic
   In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Roll It Up
   Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Sizzle Time
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place the meatballs in the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Garlic Butter Bliss
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Creamy Goodness
   Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and cheesy.
6. Spinach Power
   Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts into the sauce, adding both flavor and a vibrant green color.
7. Final Touch
   Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them in the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, making sure they’re fully warmed through and coated.
8. Serve with Style
   Serve these chicken ricotta meatballs with your favorite pasta, rice, or some crusty bread. Let the Alfredo sauce drizzle over everything, making each bite irresistible.

Cooking Tips:

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
• You can substitute ground chicken with beef, turkey, or even plant-based protein for a meatless version.
• Swap out fresh spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor twist.

These Chicken Ricotta Balls with Spinach Alfredo are a true crowd-pleaser. The soft, cheesy meatballs paired with the rich sauce bring comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a small gathering, or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a quiet night, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Recipe Sources:

• AllRecipes Chicken Meatballs with Alfredo Sauce
• Bon Appétit: Spinach Alfredo Pasta
• Serious Eats: Chicken Meatball Recipes