Description
This Southern-inspired twist on classic meatballs delivers serious comfort food vibes. These baked chicken ricotta meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs. Paired with a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make.
Whether you serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even rice, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
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1 lb ground chicken
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 egg
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
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3 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
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2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup milk
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing spinach)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
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Ground chicken
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Ricotta cheese
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Egg
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½ cup Parmesan
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Breadcrumbs
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Minced garlic
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Chopped parsley
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Salt, black pepper, and paprika
Mix until well combined.
3. Shape and Bake
Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce
While the meatballs bake:
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
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Stir in the heavy cream, 1 cup Parmesan, milk, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper.
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Cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve
Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the Alfredo sauce.
Serve warm over your choice of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan, if desired.