Description
Southern-style baked chicken ricotta meatballs are tender, flavorful, and oven-baked to perfection, then smothered in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce for a comforting and versatile dish ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
3/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Make the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
Shape meatballs: Form into 1½-inch balls using oiled hands or a cookie scoop.
Bake: Place the meatballs on the prepared sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
To make Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a skillet, sauté garlic, and stir in flour to make a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened.
Add cheese and spinach: Stir in Parmesan, black pepper, salt, and spinach. Simmer until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine: Add baked meatballs to the sauce or pour sauce over meatballs. Garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.
Notes
Use fresh spinach for the best texture; squeeze out excess moisture if using frozen.
Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid toughness.
Meatballs and sauce can be prepared ahead and stored separately.
The sauce may thicken after cooling; add a splash of milk when reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: southern-style comfort food, chicken ricotta meatballs, baked meatballs, spinach Alfredo sauce, creamy chicken dinner, weeknight recipes, Southern baked recipes, freezer-friendly meals