Description
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a delectable fusion of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and fragrant seasonings. This recipe takes the classic meatball to new heights, offering a healthier alternative that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, these meatballs are sure to delight.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pound ground chicken
- 6 ounce whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the meatballs with a bit of olive oil to help them brown.
3. Bake the meatballs for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
4. While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, milk, and nutmeg. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Once the meatballs are done, gently add them to the skillet with the spinach Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Notes
Serve the Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired. These meatballs pair beautifully with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg