Introduction

These Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. Tender chicken meatballs baked to perfection and coated in a creamy, garlicky spinach Alfredo sauce make for a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare at home.

The dish is a baked casserole in a silver foil tray filled with layers of golden melted cheese with slightly browned tops. Beneath the cheese are round meatballs mixed with quinoa, showing a light brown textured surface. Around the meatballs are bright green chopped herbs and thin green zucchini slices layered all over, sitting in a creamy white sauce that fills the tray. The cheese layer is thick and bubbly, covering most parts of the quinoa meatballs and zucchini, creating a rich, textured, and colorful look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound Ground Chicken (can be substituted with turkey for a lighter option)

1 cup Ricotta Cheese (consider using part-skim for a healthier twist)

1 cup Chopped Spinach (fresh or frozen works)

1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (opt for whole wheat for a heartier texture)

1 Egg (a flaxseed mixture can be used as a vegan alternative)

1 cup Heavy Cream (for a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based milk if desired)

1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated adds depth of flavor)

2 cloves Garlic (minced, roasted garlic can add a sweeter flavor)

1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (feel free to use fresh basil or oregano for freshness)

1 tablespoon Olive Oil (lightly coat the baking dish to prevent sticking)

2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (chopped parsley or basil for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently until just combined, then shape into medium-sized meatballs.

Step 3: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter and arrange the meatballs evenly spaced inside.

Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes, until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

Step 5: Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and minced garlic. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Remove the meatballs from the oven and pour the spinach Alfredo sauce over them, gently tossing to coat evenly.

Step 8: Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 9: Take the dish out of the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for chicken and use part-skim ricotta cheese.

Try adding roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, milder sauce flavor.

If you prefer a dairy-free sauce, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut milk and nutritional yeast.

To add extra texture, mix finely chopped onions or bell peppers into the meatball mixture.

Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of Italian seasoning for a brighter taste.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and refrigerate them separately. Reheat the sauce gently before tossing with the meatballs and finishing in the oven.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.