A warm aroma fills your kitchen as you prepare to create a culinary masterpiece with Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce. Imagine sinking your fork into tender meatballs bursting with flavor, all swimming in a dreamy sauce that’s as rich as your Aunt Betty’s gossip at family reunions.
Picture this: it’s Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house. Everyone gathers around the table, awaiting the magic of her cooking. At the heart of it all are these mouthwatering meatballs—comfort food that warms not just your belly but also your soul. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be the star of your next meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines simplicity and flavor for a crowd-pleasing meal
- The creamy spinach Alfredo adds a touch of elegance while being easy to prepare
- It’s visually stunning and versatile for various occasions
- Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering
Sharing this recipe has brought smiles and satisfied bellies to my family gatherings—everyone always asks for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Chicken: Aim for lean ground chicken for a healthier option while still being juicy and flavorful.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for creaminess; it’s the secret ingredient that elevates these meatballs.
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green leaves; they add color and nutrition while wilting beautifully into the sauce.
- Pasta: Any pasta you have on hand works; I often use fettuccine or penne for those wonderful sauce-hugging curves.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it adds depth without the hassle of peeling fresh garlic.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances both the meatballs and sauce; don’t skimp on this cheesy goodness.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps everything cook beautifully in the oven; choose high-quality extra virgin if you can.
- Heavy Cream: This transforms regular spinach into a luxurious Alfredo sauce; it’s rich but worth every calorie.
- Dried Herbs (Oregano, Basil): These bring a touch of Italian flair to the dish; use fresh if they’re available.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil so our meatballs won’t stick during their cozy bake.
Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Mix gently until evenly combined—don’t overdo it or your meatballs will become tough.
Shape Your Meatballs: Scoop out portions of the mixture using a cookie scoop or your hands and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them side by side in your prepared baking dish like they’re preparing for their big debut.
Bake Those Bad Boys: Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Create Your Spinach Alfredo Sauce: While the meatballs are baking away, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly until melted and smooth—this is where magic happens.
Add Spinach to Sauce: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted down; it should only take about two minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste—you want every bite bursting with flavor.
Enjoy serving these delectable Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over pasta or on their own alongside that creamy spinach Alfredo sauce—your taste buds will thank you.
You Must Know
- Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce combine rich flavors and textures
- The meatballs are juicy, and the creamy sauce elevates every bite
- Using fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, making this dish both delicious and visually appealing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the meatballs first for a crispy exterior, then bake them while simmering the sauce to blend flavors perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option, or add red pepper flakes for some heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor, and let the sauce simmer longer for a richer taste
- This recipe is also great for meal prep; make a double batch
Creating these meatballs brings back memories of family dinners, where laughter filled the kitchen as we devoured every last bite together.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ricotta in Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese can work well as ricotta alternatives in this recipe.
Can I freeze Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?
Yes, freeze them before baking to enjoy later; just thaw before cooking.
How long do I need to bake these chicken meatballs?
Bake your meatballs at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown.
Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (approx. 12 meatballs)
Description
Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a flavor-packed, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Tender meatballs in a creamy sauce will impress everyone!
Ingredients
- Ground chicken
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh spinach
- Parmesan cheese
- Heavy cream
- Garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Mix gently until combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a saucepan, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Stir in fresh spinach and wilt for about two minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball (90g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg