Velvety Chicken Meatballs in Spinach Sauce

Transform ordinary ground chicken into extraordinary meatballs with the magic of creamy ricotta cheese in this comforting weeknight dinner. The tender, juicy meatballs bake while a velvety spinach Alfredo sauce comes together on the stovetop. The result is a perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors that has quickly become a family favorite.

The aroma of these baking meatballs draws everyone to the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and garlic-infused Alfredo sauce creates an irresistible dish that elevates simple ingredients into something truly special.

Key Ingredients

• Ground chicken: Provides a lighter alternative to beef while maintaining rich flavor. Choose standard ground chicken rather than extra-lean for best results.
• Ricotta cheese: The essential ingredient that ensures perfectly moist meatballs. Its creamy texture prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Breadcrumbs: Acts as a critical binder. Either panko or traditional breadcrumbs work well.
• Fresh garlic: Infuses both meatballs and sauce with essential aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and helps thicken the sauce. Fresh-grated provides superior melting.
• Fresh spinach: Incorporates color and nutrients while cutting through the richness.
• Heavy cream: Creates the signature Alfredo sauce texture.
• Mozzarella cheese: Provides the ideal melting qualities for a smooth sauce.
• Italian seasoning: A balanced blend of herbs that seasons both components perfectly.

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Preparation Method

Preparing the Meatballs

Begin by preheating the oven to 400°F and preparing a baking sheet with oil. Mix ground chicken, ricotta, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan, herbs, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Use gentle hands to combine just until mixed - overworking will toughen the meat.

Forming and Baking

Using dampened hands, portion the mixture into two-tablespoon meatballs. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet with space between each. The ricotta creates a softer texture than traditional meatballs, but they'll set perfectly during baking while staying tender inside.

Starting the Sauce

While meatballs bake for 18-20 minutes, prepare the sauce. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and briefly sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Finishing the Sauce

Add heavy cream to the wilted spinach and simmer gently for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Incorporate both cheeses, stirring until completely melted. Season with Italian herbs, salt and pepper to taste.

These meatballs honor traditional Italian cooking while incorporating modern ingredients. The technique of mixing by hand ensures perfect texture, while baking offers convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Ideas

Serve these meatballs over wide pasta noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine to capture maximum sauce. For a lighter meal, pair with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Include crusty bread for sauce-soaking and a crisp green salad for contrast.

Recipe Variations

Enhance the basic recipe by adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Create cheese-stuffed meatballs by embedding small mozzarella cubes in the center. Ground turkey works equally well as a chicken substitute.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors develop beautifully overnight. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the sauce's creamy consistency. For meal prep, prepare meatballs ahead and store separately from freshly made sauce.

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Pro Tips

• Keep hands slightly wet when shaping meatballs to prevent sticking
• Adjust sauce thickness by simmering covered or uncovered
• Ensure food safety with 165°F internal meatball temperature

This recipe represents the perfect blend of traditional technique and modern convenience. The ricotta-enhanced meatballs paired with silky spinach Alfredo sauce creates a reliable, impressive dish suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make this meal gluten-free?

All you need to do is swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones in the meatball mix.

→ Can I prep the meatballs before cooking day?

Absolutely. You can bake them ahead of time, store them, and warm them up when adding to the sauce.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve it on top of regular pasta, zucchini noodles, or alongside some warm, crusty bread for dipping.

→ Is ground turkey a good alternative?

It sure is! Ground turkey works just as nicely in this recipe.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in a sealed container in your fridge for up to three days. Reheat slowly when ready to enjoy again.