Introduction

These Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings a twist to classic meatballs. The creamy ricotta and spinach-packed sauce make this meal both hearty and delicious, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 pound Ground Chicken (can be substituted with turkey for a lighter option)
1 cup Ricotta Cheese (consider using part-skim for a healthier twist)
1 cup Chopped Spinach (fresh or frozen works)
1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (opt for whole wheat for a heartier texture)
1 Egg (a flaxseed mixture can be used as a vegan alternative)
1 cup Heavy Cream (for a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based milk if desired)
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated adds depth of flavor)
2 cloves Garlic (minced, roasted garlic can add a sweeter flavor)
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (feel free to use fresh basil or oregano for freshness)
1 tablespoon Olive Oil (lightly coat the baking dish to prevent sticking)
2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (chopped parsley or basil for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until just combined and form medium-sized meatballs.
Step 3: Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter and place the meatballs evenly apart.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and browned on the outside.
Step 5: Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and minced garlic and simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 6: Reduce heat and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
Step 7: Pour the Spinach Alfredo Sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat evenly.
Step 8: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 9: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan alternative, substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture and use plant-based ricotta and cream substitutes.
Using whole wheat breadcrumbs adds extra texture and nutrients to the meatballs.
Roasted garlic in the sauce can provide a milder, sweeter flavor if preferred.
Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added to the meatball mixture for added freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration; if so, stir in a splash of milk or cream while reheating to loosen it.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will work well in this recipe for a lighter option.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare and bake the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, prepare the sauce and finish baking the meatballs with the sauce as instructed.

Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 135 reviews

A comforting Southern-style dish featuring baked chicken ricotta meatballs served in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce, perfect for a flavorful and wholesome meal.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

1 pound Ground Chicken (can be substituted with turkey for a lighter option)
1 cup Ricotta Cheese (consider using part-skim for a healthier twist)
1 cup Chopped Spinach (fresh or frozen works)
1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (opt for whole wheat for a heartier texture)
1 Egg (a flaxseed mixture can be used as a vegan alternative)

Spinach Alfredo Sauce

1 cup Heavy Cream (for a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based milk if desired)
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated adds depth of flavor)
2 cloves Garlic (minced, roasted garlic can add a sweeter flavor)
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (feel free to use fresh basil or oregano for freshness)

Other

1 tablespoon Olive Oil (lightly coat the baking dish to prevent sticking)
2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (chopped parsley or basil for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs.
Arrange Meatballs in Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Place the meatballs evenly spaced in the dish to allow even cooking.
Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce: While the meatballs bake, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Add heavy cream and minced garlic, then simmer for about 5 minutes until the cream thickens slightly.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Coat Meatballs with Sauce: Pour the spinach Alfredo sauce over the baked meatballs and gently toss or spoon to coat them evenly.
Finish Baking: Return the coated meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil, and serve warm for a delicious, hearty dish.

Notes

Use part-skim ricotta and whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier version.
Frozen spinach should be thawed and excess water squeezed out before using.
For a vegan alternative, replace egg with a flaxseed mixture and use plant-based ricotta and cream substitutes.
Roasted garlic can be used instead of minced garlic for a sweeter flavor in the sauce.
Adjust Italian seasoning to taste and add fresh herbs for added brightness.

Keywords: baked chicken meatballs, ricotta meatballs, spinach alfredo, Southern style chicken, creamy meatballs