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Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
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Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a culinary delight that brings together the tender juiciness of chicken meatballs with the creamy richness of a spinach Alfredo sauce. This recipe combines the mild, creamy texture of ricotta cheese integrated into the meatballs with the robust, garlicky flavor of a classic Alfredo sauce enhanced by fresh, nutritious spinach.

  • Author: Sarah Tag
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

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

Additional:

  • Cooked pasta, for serving

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Make Meatballs:
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake Meatballs:
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through and lightly golden.

Prepare Sauce:
5. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, bring to a simmer, and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Finish Sauce:
7. Add chopped spinach to the sauce, season with salt and pepper, and cook until spinach is wilted.

Serve:
8. Serve meatballs over cooked pasta, topped with spinach Alfredo sauce.

Notes

  • Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The type of chicken, ricotta, and Parmesan can significantly influence the dish’s taste and texture.
  • Consistency Adjustments: Adjust the cream amount based on desired sauce thickness. Add more for a thinner sauce, or let it reduce longer for a thicker consistency.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pairs well with al dente pasta, steamed vegetables, or a salad. For a low-carb option, serve over spiralized vegetables or cauliflower rice.
  • Make-Ahead Strategy: The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead, stored in the refrigerator, and reheated for quick meals.
  • Freezing Instructions: Freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra cream if needed.
  • Dietary Modifications: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Dairy-free options can be achieved by substituting cheese and cream with vegan alternatives.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://glonfo.com/chicken-ricotta-meatballs-with-spinach-alfredo-sauce/