This was my absolute favorite dish back in the day. I couldn’t get enough and always asked my mom to whip it up.
This recipe brings together tender, juicy Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with a rich and herby Spinach Alfredo Sauce, creating a comforting, Southern-style dish that’s full of creamy flavor and homestyle goodness.
Southern-Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
🧾 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 1 lb |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese (for meatballs) | ½ cup |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Salt (for meatballs) | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper (for meatballs) | ½ tsp |
| Paprika | ½ tsp |
| Olive oil (for meatballs) | 3 tbsp |
| Fresh spinach (chopped) | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce) | 1 cup |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Nutmeg | ¼ tsp |
| Salt and pepper (for sauce) | To taste |
| Olive oil (for sauce) | 1 tbsp |
🍗 Step-by-Step Meatball Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, ½ cup Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 3: Shape and Drizzle
Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
🥬 Spinach Alfredo Sauce Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Spinach
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and milk. Whisk continuously until well combined.
Step 3: Season and Thicken
Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy texture. Remove from heat.
🍽️ Bringing It All Together
Step 1: Coat the Meatballs
Once baked, add the meatballs to the skillet with the Spinach Alfredo Sauce. Gently toss to coat them evenly.
Step 2: Serve
Serve warm over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a hearty, comforting meal.
