Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a perfect choice. This dish brings together juicy meatballs made from ground chicken and ricotta cheese, all smothered in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. It’s a delightful combination that is sure to please the whole family!
Why Make This Recipe
Making this recipe is a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal that is also easy to prepare. The meatballs are tender and packed with flavor, thanks to the ricotta cheese and spices. The rich, creamy spinach Alfredo sauce adds a delicious twist, making each bite comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy greens!
How to Make Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- In a skillet, heat the spinach until wilted.
- Add heavy cream, milk, and nutmeg to the same skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the meatballs topped with the spinach Alfredo sauce.
How to Serve Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
These meatballs are best served warm and can be accompanied by pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. The creamy spinach Alfredo sauce complements the meatballs beautifully, making every bite a delight!
How to Store Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
If you have leftovers, store the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to Make Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender.
- You can add more spices or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
- If you want a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variation
For a twist, you can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey or even beef. You can also add different vegetables to the Alfredo sauce, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze these meatballs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after baking. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Q: Can I make the spinach Alfredo sauce vegan?
A: Yes, you can replace the heavy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Q: How long do the meatballs take to cook?
A: The meatballs will generally take about 25-30 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C) or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Enjoy your cooking and savor every bite of this delicious Southern style meal!
