Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
Indulge in these tender and juicy Southern-style chicken meatballs infused with creamy ricotta and baked to golden perfection! They’re smothered in a rich and velvety spinach Alfredo sauce that adds a sophisticated touch to this comfort classic. Perfect for pasta lovers and anyone craving a hearty yet elegant meal!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken (lean and flavorful)
1 cup ricotta cheese (keeps them moist and tender)
1 egg (perfect binder)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds rich, salty depth)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (creates the perfect texture)
2 cloves garlic, minced (aromatic punch)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (bright, fresh flavor)
1 tsp salt (enhances flavor)
1/2 tsp black pepper (subtle warmth)
1/2 tsp paprika (adds Southern flair)
3 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (vibrant greens)
1 cup heavy cream (luxurious richness)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (cheesy goodness)
1/2 cup milk (smooth consistency)
1/4 tsp nutmeg (warm undertone)
Salt and pepper to taste (balanced seasoning)
Instructions:
Prep the Meatballs:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Mix until fully combined.
Shape & Bake:
Roll mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, milk, and nutmeg.
Season with salt and pepper.
Cook until sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Finish & Serve:
Toss baked meatballs in the spinach Alfredo sauce.
Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for a restaurant-quality finish!
chickenmeatballs, spinachalfredo, southerncooking, comfortfood, easyrecipe, cheesy, ricotta, bakedmeatballs, alfredosauce, creamy, familydinner, delicious
