These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are tender, flavorful, and smothered in a creamy Parmesan sauce with wilted spinach—perfect for a cozy dinner that feels indulgent yet easy.
Author:Mayaa
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:Serves 4–5
Category:Main Course, Comfort Food
Method:Baking, Simmering
Cuisine:American, Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1–2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling or pan-frying)
For the spinach Alfredo sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until just combined.
Form mixture into meatballs and arrange on baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Meanwhile, make the sauce: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan and spinach; cook until wilted.
Season sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Serve warm over your choice of sides.
Notes
Swap chicken for turkey or beef if preferred.
Use kale or frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.
Cottage cheese can replace ricotta.
Delicious over pasta, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice.
Freeze meatballs and sauce together or separately for easy meal prep.