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Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce


  • Author: nicole lopez
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

A Delicious Combination of Tender Chicken Meatballs and Creamy Spinach Alfredo Sauce for an Irresistible Dinner!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 500g ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Form the Meatballs:
    • Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a greased baking sheet.
  3. Bake:
    • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C / 165°F).
  4. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add Cheese and Spinach:
    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine:
    • Gently add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the spinach Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
  7. Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or on its own.

Notes

  • Meatball Variations: You can substitute ground turkey for chicken for a lighter option.
  • Sauce Add-ins: Feel free to add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 30g