Southern Style Baked Chicken Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo

The aroma of Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a cold day. Picture this: tender chicken meatballs infused with creamy ricotta and nestled in a luscious spinach Alfredo sauce that is so good you’ll want to swim in it. This dish is a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds and leaves you craving more.

Every time I make these delightful meatballs, it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and the clinking of forks against plates. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, these meatballs never fail to impress. Just thinking about them makes my stomach rumble in anticipation!

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were fighting over the last meatball like it was the final piece of pizza at a party.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Chicken: Fresh ground chicken ensures juiciness; don’t skimp on quality for these savory bites.
• Ricotta Cheese: Using whole milk ricotta brings richness and creaminess to each meatball.
• Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green spinach; it adds color and essential nutrients to your dish.
• Pasta (Optional): Choose your favorite pasta shape if you want to serve these delicious meatballs over noodles.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan offers salty depth; always use freshly grated for best results.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs gives your meatballs that authentic Italian flavor profile.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; chop finely to release maximum aroma.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for creating that luscious Alfredo sauce everyone loves; don’t substitute!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking for your fabulous meatballs.

Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently until blended but be careful not to overwork the mixture.

Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to form small balls from the mixture—about 1 inch in diameter works best. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce: While the meatballs bake, heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Toss in fresh spinach until wilted.

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once baked, transfer those glorious meatballs into your creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. Let them simmer together for about five minutes so they soak up all that deliciousness.

Enjoy serving these Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce as they are or atop a bed of pasta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear those meatballs first to lock in moisture, then bake while preparing the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra zing! Customize your meatballs with different cheeses too.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain creaminess.

I still remember the first time I made Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce. My friends devoured them, and one even asked if I’d secretly attended culinary school!

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great and offers a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

Pair them with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats for a delicious alternative.

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Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

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Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are a comforting blend of juicy chicken and creamy sauce, perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Ingredients

• Ground chicken
• Ricotta cheese
• Fresh spinach
• Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream
• Garlic cloves
• Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt until combined.
3. Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake meatballs for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
5. While meatballs bake, simmer heavy cream in a saucepan; stir in Parmesan until melted, then add spinach until wilted.
6. Combine baked meatballs with the spinach Alfredo sauce for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

– Customize by adding kale or sun-dried tomatoes.

 

– For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 meatballs (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: Customize by swapping spinach with kale or adding sun-dried tomatoes. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.