Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

The aroma of freshly baked meatballs wafts through the kitchen, promising a comforting meal that invites everyone to sit down and enjoy. Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a wonderful dish that takes about an hour to prepare and cook. It’s a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, with moist chicken meatballs enveloped in a creamy sauce.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It also works well as a meal prep option since the meatballs can be made ahead and stored for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The meatballs are tender and bursting with flavor from the ricotta and herbs.
• A rich and creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the baked meatballs.
• It’s a complete meal that combines protein, greenery, and deliciousness in every bite.
• Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish.

For the Meatballs

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, very finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1.5 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey)
• 6 oz whole milk ricotta (approximately ¾ cup)
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt (or as needed)

For the Sauce

• 6 bacon strips
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cup heavy cream (35% fat)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 5 oz baby spinach (approximately 150 grams)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, to garnish

Substitutions: Use any ground meat or dairy-free alternatives if desired.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can substitute ground chicken.
• Ricotta can be replaced with cottage cheese.
• Heavy cream can be swapped for half-and-half.
• Sun-dried tomatoes can be replaced with fresh tomatoes.

How to Make It

Start with these simple steps to create a comforting meal.

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the meatball mixture

Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a large mixing bowl. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and become soft.

3. Mix all ingredients

Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, ground chicken or turkey, ricotta, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix until thoroughly combined.

4. Form the meatballs

Scoop out the meat mixture and form it into balls, about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake the meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) indicates doneness.

6. Cook the bacon

In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain on a plate lined with paper towels and chop into pieces.

7. Make the sauce

Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

8. Add cream

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.

9. Incorporate cheese and spinach

Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add baby spinach and cook until wilted.

10. Combine and serve

Add baked meatballs to the sauce, tossing to coat. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Garnish with bacon and parsley.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, for longer-lasting meals.
Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stove for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the meatballs are well-mixed for uniform cooking.
• Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor in the meatballs.
• Adjust the amount of salt in the sauce based on your preference.
• Let the meatballs rest a few minutes after baking for better texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Serve over pasta for a wholesome and filling dinner.
• Perfect for cozy family gatherings or dinner parties.