Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Introducing a delectable dish that’s sure to please any pasta lover: Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce. This recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs made with chicken and ricotta cheese, served over a bed of pasta and smothered in a rich, creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. It’s a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

1 lb fettuccine or your favorite pasta

Instructions:

Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
Cook the Pasta:
- While the meatballs are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat.
- Serve the pasta on plates or in a large serving dish.
- Place the baked chicken ricotta meatballs on top of the pasta.
- Spoon any remaining Alfredo sauce over the meatballs and pasta.

This delightful dish brings together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the hearty flavors of chicken and ricotta meatballs. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy!