Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

A creamy, comforting dish with a gourmet touch!

There’s something incredibly comforting about Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, but when you combine tender ground chicken with creamy ricotta and smother it all in a rich spinach Alfredo sauce, you’ve got something truly special. This dish feels like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. The ricotta keeps the meatballs light and tender, while the Parmesan brings that irresistible umami depth. And let’s not forget the silky Alfredo sauce, infused with garlic and packed with nutritious spinach, making this meal indulgent yet balanced.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, these chicken ricotta meatballs are a guaranteed hit. Plus, they’re versatile—serve them over pasta, alongside mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. If you love creamy, cheesy dishes but want something a little different from your usual spaghetti and meatballs, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

When you take that first bite, you’ll immediately understand why this dish is so special. The meatballs are melt-in-your-mouth tender, thanks to the creamy ricotta and the perfect blend of seasonings. The Alfredo sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, coats everything in a velvety richness that makes you want to keep coming back for more. But it’s not just about taste—this dish is also easy to make and packed with nutrients, thanks to the addition of fresh spinach.

Rich & Creamy – The ricotta makes the meatballs incredibly tender, and the Alfredo sauce takes the dish to the next level with its silky texture. Every bite is pure comfort.

Nutrient-Packed – The addition of fresh spinach provides a boost of iron, fiber, and vitamins, making this dish both delicious and nourishing. You get a balanced meal that feels indulgent but still has some wholesome elements.

Easy to Make – Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you’ll have a gourmet-style meal ready in less than an hour.

Customizable – This dish can easily be adapted to fit different dietary needs. Want a low-carb version? Serve it over zucchini noodles. Need it gluten-free? Swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free panko. There are so many ways to make it work for your lifestyle.

Ingredients You’ll Need to make the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken – A lean, protein-packed base that keeps the meatballs light yet flavorful.
• ½ cup ricotta cheese – Adds creaminess and keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Infuses the meatballs with rich, nutty depth.
• 1 egg – Helps bind everything together so the meatballs hold their shape.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs – Absorbs moisture and ensures the perfect texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Gives a delicious aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings warmth and complexity.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter – Adds richness and forms the base of the sauce.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with a subtle, savory aroma.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luxuriously smooth and velvety consistency.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding depth and umami.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – A nutrient-packed addition that enhances both color and flavor.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Balances out the flavors perfectly.

Optional Additions & Variations:

• Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Extra Creamy Sauce: For an even richer texture, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour and serve over zucchini noodles.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions to make the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Cooking this dish is straightforward, and each step is designed to be as foolproof as possible. The key is to let the ingredients shine while keeping things simple and stress-free.

1. Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatballs may become dense.
3. Form the Meatballs – Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs – Transfer the meatballs to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

2. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic – In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Cream – Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
3. Add Cheese & Spinach – Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
4. Season & Combine – Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Once the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the sauce, coating them evenly. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

3. Serve & Enjoy

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Over pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or pappardelle) for a classic Italian-style meal.
• With rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty, comforting dinner.
• Alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal.
• With crusty bread to scoop up all that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Additional Tips for the Best Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

The secret to making the perfect meatballs is in the details. Here are some pro tips to ensure that yours come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender every time:

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, high-quality Parmesan, and good ricotta make all the difference. They add depth and authenticity to the dish.

Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture – Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until everything is combined for the most tender texture.

Test a Small Portion First – If you’re unsure about the seasoning, cook a tiny bit of the mixture in a pan and taste it before rolling the meatballs. Adjust if needed.

Let the Meatballs Rest – Once baked, let them sit for a few minutes before adding them to the sauce. This helps them hold their shape and soak up more flavor.

Double the Recipe & Freeze – These meatballs freeze beautifully! Make a double batch and store extras for easy future meals.

What to Serve with Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Over Pasta: Classic fettuccine, spaghetti, or pappardelle make a perfect pairing.

With Rice or Mashed Potatoes: A heartier option that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

With Crusty Bread: Toasty bread is great for scooping up that rich Alfredo sauce.

Alongside a Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Make-Ahead: The meatballs can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the sauce when ready to serve.

Freezing: You can freeze both the cooked meatballs and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the meatballs and sauce in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking?
Yes! Heat a skillet with oil over medium heat and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

What can I use instead of ricotta?
Cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even blended silken tofu for a dairy-free option.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then reheat and combine before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce recipe is pure comfort food at its best. Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect dish for both special occasions and easy weeknight dinners. The combination of tender meatballs and velvety sauce makes every bite satisfying, and the simple preparation ensures that anyone can make this with confidence.

I’d love to hear how your meatballs turn out! If you try this recipe, be sure to share your experience and let me know if you made any fun variations. Happy cooking!

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

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• Author: Clara Whisk
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Halal

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Description

These chicken ricotta meatballs are incredibly tender, thanks to the creamy ricotta, and are coated in a rich, garlicky spinach Alfredo sauce. This dish is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a deliciously satisfying experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven – Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Meatballs – In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined.
• Form Meatballs – Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake – Cook for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
• Make the Sauce – In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Simmer the Cream – Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.
• Add Spinach – Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Combine & Serve – Add baked meatballs to the sauce, toss to coat, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with bread.

Notes

• Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach works too.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth.
• For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking, Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired