Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken (leaner than beef!)
1 cup ricotta cheese (secret to moisture)
1 egg (perfect binder)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (savory depth)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (perfect texture)
2 cloves garlic, minced (aromatic punch)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (fresh flavor)
1 tsp salt (flavor enhancer)
1/2 tsp black pepper (subtle heat)
1/2 tsp paprika (Southern flair)
3 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (vibrant greens)
1 cup heavy cream (velvety richness)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (cheesy glory)
1/2 cup milk (perfect consistency)
1/4 tsp nutmeg (secret weapon!)
Salt and pepper to taste (flavor balancers)

Equipment

Baking sheet with parchment paper
Large mixing bowl (for meatballs)
Large skillet (for sauce)
Measuring cups and spoons

 

 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Meatballs:

Preheat oven to a hot 400°F (200°C).
Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Mix thoroughly until everything is perfectly incorporated.

2️⃣ Shape & Bake:

Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
Arrange on your prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle generously with olive oil.
Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

3️⃣ Create the Sauce:

While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet.
Add chopped spinach and cook until beautifully wilted.
Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, milk, and nutmeg.
Season with salt and pepper.
Stir continuously until sauce thickens beautifully, about 5-7 minutes.

4️⃣ Bring It All Together:

Transfer cooked meatballs to the skillet with sauce.
Gently toss to coat each meatball in that luxurious sauce.
Serve immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan for the perfect finish!

⏳ Quick Details:

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Servings: 4 people
Calories: ~550 kcal per serving

A spectacular fusion of Southern comfort and Italian indulgence that transforms humble ground chicken into an extraordinary meal worthy of your finest dinner parties!