Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Form Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the pan in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- Sauté the Spinach: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Meatballs and Sauce
- Return Meatballs to the Sauce: Gently place the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the spinach Alfredo sauce. Spoon some sauce over the meatballs and let them simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach Alfredo sauce over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a healthier option. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish. If you have the option, opt for freshly grated Parmesan over pre-grated for a creamier sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Meatballs: Cook the meatballs just until they are golden and cooked through. Overcooking can make them dry.
- Make Ahead: The meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and frozen. Simply thaw and cook them when you’re ready to enjoy this delicious meal.
Variations
- Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the meatball mixture for added flavor.
- Change the Sauce: While spinach Alfredo is a delightful choice, you can also try a marinara sauce or a simple garlic butter sauce for a different twist.
- Use Ground Turkey: For a lighter option, substitute ground chicken with ground turkey; it works equally well in this recipe.
Conclusion
Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a delightful and comforting dish that the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken meatballs infused with ricotta and the creamy, flavorful spinach sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Whether served over pasta, rice, or your favorite side, this dish brings warmth and flavor to any table. Try it for your next dinner, and watch as it becomes a beloved favorite in your household!
