When you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that combines rich flavors with a healthy twist, Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is the answer. This delicious dish is not only bursting with flavor but also offers a lighter take on traditional meatball recipes. The combination of juicy chicken meatballs, creamy ricotta, and the luscious spinach Alfredo sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce. From the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions, you’ll find all the tips and tricks to create this delectable dish at home. Plus, we’ll share some related recipes you can try for more flavorful meals. So, let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

The main reason why this recipe stands out is the balance between the lean protein of chicken meatballs and the richness of ricotta cheese, all topped with a creamy, veggie-packed Alfredo sauce. The spinach in the sauce not only adds a pop of green but also infuses the dish with added nutrition. The Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are perfectly seasoned, offering a juicy, flavorful bite with every mouthful.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and relatively light compared to traditional beef meatballs, this recipe is the perfect choice. Whether you’re trying to cut back on red meat or simply want to enjoy a lighter take on a classic comfort food, these meatballs will surely meet your cravings.

Ingredients for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

To make the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce, you’ll need a selection of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for both the meatballs and the sauce.

Ingredients for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:

2 lbs ground chicken
Ground chicken is leaner than beef or pork, making it an ideal choice for a healthier meatball.
1 large egg
The egg will act as a binder, helping to hold the meatballs together.
¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
Breadcrumbs give the meatballs a nice texture, helping them stay tender and juicy.
½ cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta adds creaminess to the meatballs, balancing out the lean chicken and making them extra moist.
1 tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses a delicious flavor that complements the chicken and ricotta.
2 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme will bring out the authentic Italian flavors in the meatballs.
1 ½ tsp sweet paprika
Sweet paprika adds a subtle depth of flavor and a little color to the meatballs.
1 medium onion, diced very finely
A finely diced onion adds a mild, sweet flavor that enhances the meatballs without overpowering them.
1 tsp sea salt
Salt is essential for bringing out all the other flavors in the meatballs.
1 tsp black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of spice and warmth to the meatballs.

Ingredients for Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

2 cups spinach, finely chopped
Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor to the sauce.
5 tbsp butter (unsalted)
Butter provides richness and a smooth base for the Alfredo sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds aromatic flavor to the sauce and pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.
1 ¾ cups whole milk
Whole milk gives the sauce a smooth, creamy texture. You can also substitute with a non-dairy milk if preferred.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for that rich, velvety texture typical of an Alfredo sauce.
1 egg yolk OR ¼ cup all-purpose flour for thickening
The egg yolk helps to thicken the sauce while adding richness. Alternatively, flour can be used to create a thicker consistency.
¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that elevates the flavor of the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream.
⅓ cup parmesan cheese or pecorino
Grated parmesan or pecorino cheese brings a salty, umami kick to the sauce.
½ tsp sea salt
Salt enhances the flavors of the sauce and balances the creaminess.
½ tsp black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds a finishing touch of spice.

How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s jump into the cooking process! This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced cooking techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, finely diced onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tough meatballs.
Shape the meatballs: Once the mixture is well-combined, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one meatball in half to ensure there’s no pink inside. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Sauté the garlic: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Add the milk and cream: Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk until smooth. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolk to temper it, then whisk it back into the sauce. Alternatively, you can add ¼ cup of flour to thicken the sauce. Cook the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Add spinach and seasonings: Stir in the chopped spinach, parmesan cheese, freshly grated nutmeg, sea salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Once the meatballs are baked and the spinach Alfredo sauce is ready, it’s time to combine the two.

Add the meatballs to the sauce: Gently place the baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs into the spinach Alfredo sauce. Stir carefully to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Serve: Serve the meatballs with your favorite side dish, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Use lean ground chicken: For the best texture and flavor, use lean ground chicken. It will provide a moist base for the meatballs without being greasy.
Do not overmix the meatball mixture: When combining the ingredients, be gentle to avoid making the meatballs dense. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
Don’t skip the nutmeg: A small amount of freshly grated nutmeg adds a depth of flavor to the Alfredo sauce. It’s a key ingredient that makes the sauce extra special.
Customize the sauce: You can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, for more variety and nutrition.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce, you’ll enjoy these other flavorful recipes as well:

Creamy Meatballs with Crispy Bacon – These creamy, savory meatballs are paired with crispy bacon for an extra burst of flavor.
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs – A delicious twist on classic cheeseburger flavors, packed into a meatball.
Cheesy BBQ Bacon Bomb Bites – A cheesy, smoky, and savory appetizer perfect for parties or family gatherings.

FAQs: Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

1. How do you make Alfredo sauce with spinach?

To make Alfredo sauce with spinach, follow these steps:

Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant.
Add milk and heavy cream to the pan, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Add an egg yolk or flour to thicken the sauce, depending on your preference.
Stir in finely chopped spinach and cook until the spinach wilts.
Add parmesan cheese, freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper for flavor.
Simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy, and the spinach is fully incorporated.

This method creates a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with the added nutrition and vibrant color of spinach.

2. What does ricotta do in meatballs?

Ricotta cheese adds moisture and richness to meatballs, making them extra tender and juicy. It helps bind the ingredients together without making the meatballs dense, as it keeps the mixture soft. Ricotta also introduces a subtle, creamy flavor that complements the seasonings in the meatballs, creating a balanced texture and taste.

3. Can you use margarine in Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter in Alfredo sauce. However, butter provides a richer flavor and creamier texture, so if you decide to use margarine, the sauce might not taste as indulgent. If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, margarine is an option, but consider adding a bit of extra seasoning or cream to achieve a similar flavor profile.

4. How do you thicken Alfredo sauce without Parmesan cheese?

If you need to thicken Alfredo sauce without using Parmesan cheese, here are a few options:

Egg yolk: Adding a whisked egg yolk to the sauce can help thicken it while giving it a smooth, creamy consistency. Be sure to temper the egg first by mixing it with a bit of hot sauce to avoid curdling.
Flour or cornstarch: Mix a small amount of all-purpose flour or cornstarch with a bit of water or milk, then whisk it into the simmering sauce to thicken it.
Cream cheese: Adding cream cheese can thicken the sauce and add a tangy, creamy flavor without relying on Parmesan.
Xanthan gum: For a low-carb option, a tiny pinch of xanthan gum can thicken the sauce without affecting the flavor.

These methods help achieve a creamy texture without the need for Parmesan cheese.

Final Thoughts on Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is an exceptional dish that combines the best of both worlds: a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs and the rich, creamy indulgence of Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a special meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your hunger and impress your guests.

The blend of chicken, ricotta, and seasonings in the meatballs creates a perfectly balanced flavor, while the spinach Alfredo sauce brings it all together in a creamy, satisfying way. Try it today, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will love!

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs. Made with ground chicken, ricotta cheese, and a blend of savory seasonings, these meatballs are perfectly tender and juicy. Served in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce, this dish is a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s both easy to prepare and loved by all.

Ingredients

Scale

For Chicken Meatballs:

2 lbs ground chicken
1 large egg
¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
½ cup ricotta cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
2 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 ½ tsp sweet paprika
1 medium onion, diced very finely
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper

For Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

2 cups spinach, finely chopped
5 tbsp butter (unsalted)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ¾ cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 egg yolk OR ¼ cup all-purpose flour for thickening
¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
⅓ cup parmesan cheese or pecorino
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste and for serving if desired

Instructions

Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, ricotta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, finely diced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat a pan over medium heat with a little oil. Brown the meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the milk, heavy cream, egg yolk (or flour), nutmeg, and stir until smooth. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts.
Finish the Dish: Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free ricotta and coconut milk or another plant-based alternative for the cream and butter.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the flour used in the sauce is gluten-free.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for later.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop, Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3-4 meatballs with sauce)
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, Spinach Alfredo Sauce, Chicken Meatballs, Alfredo Meatballs, Easy Meatball Recipes, Chicken Alfredo, Spinach Alfredo, Ricotta Meatballs, Italian Meatballs, Comfort Food