Chicken Ricotta Meatballs in Spinach Alfredo Sauce
These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are light, juicy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the creamy ricotta cheese. Served in a rich Spinach Alfredo Sauce, this dish is perfect over pasta, rice, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
Ingredients
(Serves 4-5)
For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
½ cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
¾ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
1. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
2. Gently roll into 1-inch meatballs (about 18-20 meatballs).
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side, turning until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
2. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
5. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted (1-2 minutes).
6. Add lemon zest for extra brightness (optional).
3. Combine Everything:
1. Return meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the sauce.
2. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Serve:
1.Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.
2.Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Approx.)
Calories: ~450
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~15g
Fat: ~30g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~3g
Notes & Variations:
Lighter Option: Use milk instead of heavy cream and swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.
Cheese Variation: Try mozzarella in the meatballs for extra gooeyness.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes