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Creamy Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:

Combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl. Mix well. The mixture will be slightly sticky.

2. Form the Meatballs:

Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about 16-18).

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:

Melt butter in the same skillet. Sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and broth, simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add spinach and cook until wilted.

5. Simmer the Meatballs:

Return meatballs to the skillet. Coat with sauce, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through (165°F/74°C).

6. Serve:

Adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan.

Cooking Notes

  • Ground turkey or beef can substitute for chicken.
  • Full-fat ricotta makes a creamier sauce.
  • Squeeze excess moisture from frozen spinach.
  • Meatballs and sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • For thicker sauce, simmer longer or add cream cheese.

Variations

  • Add more cheese to the meatballs or sauce.
  • Sauté mushrooms with the garlic.
  • Add more garlic or roasted garlic for stronger flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for spice.

Keto & Low-Carb Versions

  • Use almond flour or pork rind crumbs instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Ground beef? Yes, but chicken keeps it lighter.
  • Frozen spinach? Yes, thaw and drain well.
  • Make ahead? Yes, refrigerate or freeze.
  • Thicker sauce? Simmer longer or add cream cheese/Parmesan.
  • Dairy-free? Use dairy-free alternatives.

Enjoy this rich and flavorful comfort food! Perfect for any occasion.

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