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Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Savory Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Enjoy these Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce for a comforting dinner that's easy to prepare in under an hour.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken A lean protein that keeps the meatballs juicy and tender.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Substitute with dairy-free ricotta if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 large Egg A binder; flaxseed meal mixed with water serves as a great egg alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh is ideal, but powdered garlic works too.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped Can swap for basil for a different taste.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Italian seasoning makes a lovely substitute.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust according to your palate.
  • 1 cup Fresh Spinach, finely chopped Frozen spinach can be used if drained well.
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter Olive oil is a great alternative.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or coconut cream can lighten it up.
  • 1 cup Fresh Spinach for Sauce Feel free to use more if you love spinach!
For Serving
  • 8 oz Cooked Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta if necessary.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley for Garnish Beautifies your dish and adds a burst of flavor.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a sizeable mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and finely chopped fresh spinach. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix everything until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the meatballs are being shaped. Once ready, place the baking sheet with your meatballs into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently while stirring. Add in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. To your simmering Alfredo sauce, add the finely chopped fresh spinach. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts down and becomes vibrant. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Once the meatballs are fully baked, gently transfer them into the skillet with the Spinach Alfredo Sauce. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated and heated through.
  6. Prepare your choice of cooked pasta, placing it in individual serving bowls. Spoon the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs along with the creamy Spinach Alfredo Sauce over the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, taste as you go and adjust seasoning as needed. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to restore creaminess.

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