Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Bliss

Name: Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce

October 12, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce! They’re the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture it: juicy, tender meatballs bursting with creamy ricotta and seasoned to perfection, all nestled under a velvety spinach alfredo sauce that’s just begging to be savored. The first time I made these, I had a gang of friends over for dinner, and I was worried they’d be too complicated. But wow, they were such a hit! We ended up scraping every last drop of that sauce from the serving dish. Trust me, this meal brings together comfort and elegance, and it’s so easy to whip up! You’ll definitely want to keep this recipe close for those cozy nights in or when you want to impress your guests without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Getting the ingredients just right is key to making these meatballs a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground chicken: This is the star of the show! It gives the meatballs a light texture while still being super satisfying.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, this adds moisture and a wonderful flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that salty, nutty kick, you can’t go wrong with Parmesan. It really elevates the meatballs!
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These will help bind everything together while giving a little texture. Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free if that’s your jam!
1 egg: This helps hold the mixture together, so don’t skip it!
1 clove garlic, minced: Because who doesn’t love the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen? It adds a lovely depth of flavor.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that brings all the Italian vibes to your meatballs!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go, so you can adjust to your own preference!
2 cups fresh spinach: This is for the sauce, and it adds a beautiful color and a nutrient boost!
1 cup heavy cream: This makes the alfredo sauce luscious and creamy. Yum!
1/4 cup butter: To sauté the spinach and add richness to the sauce.
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese: For a melty, cheesy finish that takes the sauce over the top!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a comforting, delicious meal that everyone will rave about!

How to Prepare Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the meatballs cook evenly and develop that delicious golden crust we all love. So, while the oven is heating up, you can dive right into the next steps!

Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine that pound of ground chicken, the creamy ricotta cheese, the nutty Parmesan, and the breadcrumbs. Crack in the egg, toss in the minced garlic, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Now, this is where the fun begins! Get in there with your hands (I promise it’s worth it!) and mix everything until just combined. You don’t want to overwork it; we’re looking for a nice, cohesive mixture. Once it’s all mixed up, form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Meatballs

Pop those meatballs in the preheated oven and let them bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and have a nice golden hue on the outside. Just to be safe, you can use a meat thermometer to check; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step is crucial to ensure juicy, tender meatballs!

Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, let’s whip up that luscious spinach alfredo sauce! In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add in the fresh spinach and sauté until it’s wilted—this only takes a couple of minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated mozzarella until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, just add a splash of water or more cream until it reaches your desired consistency. Wow, the aroma will be incredible!

Serve the Dish

Now for the grand finale! Take those beautiful meatballs out of the oven and plate them up. I like to spoon generous amounts of that spinach alfredo sauce right over the top, making sure each meatball gets a nice coating. You can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them with a side of pasta, a simple salad, or just on their own. Get ready for compliments!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a little heads up! The nutritional information provided for these baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. So, while I do my best to give you a good estimate, it’s not set in stone. Always feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs and preferences, and don’t hesitate to check the labels for the most accurate information. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: Seriously, with just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious meatballs in no time! Perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and garlic creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Healthy: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and nutrient-rich spinach, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence!
Low-fat: With the use of ground chicken and lightened-up sauce, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the extra calories.
Great for meal prep: These meatballs store wonderfully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Just whip up a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!

Tips for Success

To ensure your baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few pro tips that I swear by:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, high-quality ricotta, and recently ground chicken make a world of difference in flavor. Don’t skimp on freshness!
Taste as You Go: When mixing the meatball ingredients, take a small piece, cook it up in a pan, and taste it. Adjust the seasoning to your preference before baking!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball mixture, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, and nobody wants that. Just mix until everything is incorporated.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to play around with different herbs or spices in your meatball mixture. Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavor, giving it a personal touch!
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs are cooked through. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. This step will guarantee juicy perfection!
Let the Sauce Simmer: When making the alfredo sauce, allow it to simmer gently to develop the flavors. Stir occasionally, and don’t rush it; good things take time!
Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan on top before serving can make your dish look even more inviting and delicious!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!

Variations for Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up, there are so many fun ways to customize your baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce! Here are some delicious variations to try:

Ground Turkey or Beef: Swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or even lean ground beef. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Adding fresh basil, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can transform the flavor profile. Ooh, imagine the fragrant aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Cheese Choices: For a fun twist, try mixing in some feta or goat cheese along with the ricotta. It adds a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Sneak in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor. It’s a great way to use up any leftovers in your fridge!
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the meatball mixture or sauce. It’ll take your dish to a whole new level!
Herbed Breadcrumbs: Instead of regular breadcrumbs, use herbed or garlic-flavored breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor in your meatballs.
Different Sauces: Switch up the spinach alfredo sauce for a marinara or pesto sauce if you’re craving something different. Both will lend their own delicious character to the dish!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you cater to personal preferences and dietary needs. Have fun experimenting, and don’t be afraid to make the recipe your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers of these baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce are just as delicious, so you’ll want to store them properly! First, let the meatballs and sauce cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just make sure to separate the meatballs from the sauce before freezing to maintain their texture. Place the meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container and they’ll be good for about 2 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, reheating is key to keeping them moist and flavorful. If you’re reheating from the fridge, you can pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure they’re heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, I recommend letting them thaw overnight in the fridge first, then reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re heated all the way through. And if you want that sauce nice and creamy again, you can add a splash of cream or milk while reheating. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

What to Serve with Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Now that you’ve got those scrumptious baked chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce ready to go, let’s talk about the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your meal even more! Trust me, the right side dishes can make all the difference.

Pasta: A classic choice! Serve your meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, fettuccine, or even zoodles for a lighter option. The pasta will soak up all that luscious spinach alfredo sauce. Yum!
Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, crusty garlic bread alongside your meal. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. I like to make mine extra buttery and sprinkle a bit of parsley on top for a pop of color!
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the meatballs. Just toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender.
Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs. Plus, it’s a great way to add some extra nutrients!
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs over cauliflower rice. It’s light, fluffy, and soaks up the sauce beautifully, making it a healthy alternative that still feels indulgent.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrition to your plate. Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice and olive oil for extra flavor!

Mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Each option brings its own flair to the table and enhances the overall experience of enjoying those delightful meatballs. Happy feasting!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.