Introduction
Chicken ricotta meatballs in spinach Alfredo sauce is a dish that perfectly balances creaminess, tenderness, and rich flavors. The combination of juicy chicken meatballs infused with creamy ricotta cheese, served in a velvety Alfredo sauce enriched with fresh spinach, creates a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated.
This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, replacing beef with lean ground chicken and incorporating ricotta cheese for an irresistibly moist and tender texture. When paired with a homemade spinach Alfredo sauce, these meatballs become a restaurant-quality dish that can be served over pasta, rice, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and incredibly satisfying. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the best ingredients to serving the final dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added depth)
For Serving
- Cooked pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until well incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatballs dense.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly oil your hands before rolling.
Step 3: Sear the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
2. Making the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Step 2: Add the Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while continuously stirring. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). The nutmeg enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce without overpowering it. Stir well to incorporate.
Step 4: Incorporate the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts into the sauce. This will take about 2-3 minutes. The spinach not only adds color but also provides additional nutrients.
3. Combining the Meatballs and Sauce
Step 1: Return the Meatballs to the Pan
Place the seared meatballs into the spinach Alfredo sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 2: Adjust the Consistency
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Toss the pasta in the sauce before plating for better flavor distribution.
- With Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- On a Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
- With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Variations & Tips
1. Substituting Ingredients
- Ground Turkey or Beef: Instead of chicken, you can use turkey for a similar lean option or beef for a richer taste.
- Cottage Cheese Instead of Ricotta: If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can work as a lower-fat alternative.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
2. Enhancing the Flavor
- Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add umami depth to the sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These provide a slightly tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Meal Prepping & Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs separately from the sauce for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the sauce.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken ricotta meatballs in spinach Alfredo sauce is a dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. The ricotta-infused meatballs are incredibly soft and flavorful, while the spinach Alfredo sauce adds a creamy, velvety finish.
This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, yet impressive enough for guests. Whether served over pasta, with garlic bread, or as a standalone low-carb meal, it’s sure to satisfy cravings for something rich and comforting.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors to make it your own!
