Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

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There’s something about Southern cooking that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. It’s not just about the flavors but also the tradition of sharing meals with loved ones. This recipe for baked chicken ricotta meatballs with a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce is a modern twist on classic Southern comfort food. The combination of tender, cheesy meatballs and a rich, velvety sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The best part? It’s baked, making it both flavorful and a bit lighter than traditional fried meatballs.

This meal pairs beautifully with buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the creamy sauce. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while a slice of warm cornbread or crusty garlic bread helps to complete the experience. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately the size of a golf ball, and place them evenly on the baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle the meatballs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the spinach Alfredo sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream, milk, 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  7. Once the meatballs are ready, transfer them to the skillet and gently toss to coat them in the sauce.
  8. Serve warm over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Variations & Options:

  • Substitute ground turkey or a mix of ground chicken and pork for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Add finely chopped bell peppers or onions to the meatball mixture for extra texture.
  • For a lower-carb option, serve with roasted vegetables or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
  • To spice things up, mix red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the Alfredo sauce.

Nutritional & Dietary Considerations:

This dish is rich in protein, thanks to the ground chicken and Parmesan cheese, making it a satisfying meal. The ricotta adds a creamy texture while providing additional protein and calcium. The spinach enhances the dish with essential vitamins and minerals. Though indulgent, the Alfredo sauce can be made lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour and serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring

Food is more than just nourishment—it’s an experience meant to be shared! If you try this Southern-style baked chicken ricotta meatballs recipe, let us know what you think. Did you make any personal tweaks? Found a side dish that pairs perfectly? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. Your feedback helps make every meal even more enjoyable for everyone!