Ingredients
For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs 🍗🧀
- 1 lb ground chicken 🍗
- ½ cup ricotta cheese 🧀
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
- ½ cup breadcrumbs 🍞
- 1 egg 🥚
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat) 🔥
- ½ tsp salt & black pepper 🧂
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing) 🫒
For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce 🥬🧄
- 2 tbsp butter 🧈
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped 🥬
- ½ tsp nutmeg (adds warmth) ✨
- Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂
Execution
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until combined.
Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add meatballs and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
Remove and set aside.
Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream, stir, and let simmer for 2 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Toss in chopped spinach and let it wilt.
Combine & Serve:
Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes, letting them soak up the creamy sauce.
Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
Additional tips
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors! 🍋
