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Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

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Delicious and hearty baked chicken meatballs mixed with ricotta cheese and served in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce, perfect for any night of the week.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, freshly grated)
  • 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 3 cups Fresh spinach (baby spinach preferred)
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp Butter (divided)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for sauce)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into 12-16 evenly-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least an inch apart.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. While the meatballs bake, heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted, then set aside.
  6. In a separate pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
  7. Pour heavy cream into the garlic butter and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Gradually add 1 cup Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  8. Add nutmeg and black pepper to taste, stirring to combine.
  9. Once the meatballs are ready, gently place them in the pan with the Alfredo sauce. Add the sautéed spinach and stir everything together.
  10. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes so the meatballs can absorb the sauce. Serve immediately over pasta or with roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Find it online: https://www.simplyputrecipes.com/baked-chicken-ricotta-meatballs-spinach-alfredo-sauce/