Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce 🥬🍝

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for baking or frying)

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing spinach, if preferred)

For Serving:

• Cooked pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet or plate.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
   • Frying Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
3. Add the Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. If preferred, you can sauté the spinach separately in olive oil or butter before adding it to the sauce for a deeper flavor.

Combine and Serve:

1. Coat the Meatballs: Gently fold the cooked meatballs into the warm spinach Alfredo sauce, ensuring they are fully coated.
2. Plate the Dish: Serve over your choice of cooked pasta, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a finishing touch.

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Recipe Notes:

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
• Swap out ground chicken for turkey if desired.
• This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 4