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Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Description

Hello, fellow food lovers! If you’re craving something truly delicious, this Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce recipe is sure to hit the spot. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this recipe brings a creamy, hearty twist to traditional meatballs, infusing them with the luscious flavors of ricotta and Parmesan. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed dish, which promises to bring comfort, elegance, and irresistible taste to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and light
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese – For a creamy texture
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty flavor
  • 1 egg – Helps bind the ingredients
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Provides structure
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic for added flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – Optional, to add an herby flavor

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich, creamy base
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances the Alfredo flavor
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Adds a fresh, vibrant green color and flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additional:

  • Cooked pasta – Optional for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, and minced garlic. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined but not overworked.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

While the meatballs bake, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Base

Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Add the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the sauce, stirring until it wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the meatballs over cooked pasta if desired, generously topped with the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. Enjoy!

Equipment

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the dish.
  • Ricotta Substitution: For a lighter option, try using cottage cheese.
  • Consistency of the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a little milk to reach the desired consistency.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/chicken-ricotta-meatballs-with-spinach-alfredo-sauce-recipe/