Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then these Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are just what you need! They’re incredibly tender and packed with flavor, making them perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. You’ll find that this dish is not only comforting but also brings everyone together around the table, sharing smiles and stories over a delightful meal.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up without sacrificing taste. The creamy spinach Alfredo sauce is the cherry on top, elevating these meatballs to something truly special. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious meal that impresses without causing stress.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavor-packed meatballs and creamy sauce—perfect for any dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later on.
• Versatile Dish: Serve over pasta or alongside your favorite veggies; it’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients will be a breeze! These are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create your Chicken Ricotta Meatballs. Let’s make sure you have everything you need before we dive into cooking!

For the Meatballs

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, very finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1.5 pounds (700 grams) ground chicken or turkey
• 6 ounces whole milk ricotta (approximately 3/4 cup)
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce

• 6 bacon strips
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cooking cream (35% fat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 5 ounces (150 grams) baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, for garnish

Variations

This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even chicken thighs for a different texture and flavor.
• Add extra veggies: Try incorporating finely grated zucchini or shredded carrots into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up if you’re looking for some heat.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a unique twist!

How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (235°C). This ensures that your meatballs will get that lovely crispiness on the outside while remaining juicy inside. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Set aside for about two minutes to soak. This step is essential as it keeps your meatballs moist and tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetable Mixture

Add onion, garlic, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes into a food processor. Pulse until they are finely chopped. This blend adds great flavor and moisture to your meatballs—don’t skip this!

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the vegetable mixture with ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs!

Step 5: Shape Your Meatballs

Using your hands (which can be slightly wet to prevent sticking), shape the mixture into about 18-20 meatballs that are roughly 2.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and give them a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop those meatballs into the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 7: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon strips until crispy. Once done, remove them from the pan but keep that flavorful bacon grease! Melt butter in the same pan; add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 8: Make It Creamy

Pour in heavy cream while seasoning with salt and pepper. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Toss in baby spinach and cook until wilted—this adds both color and nutrition to your dish!

Step 9: Combine It All Together

Add those beautiful baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs into your creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for about two more minutes to allow all those fantastic flavors to meld together.

Now you’re ready to serve! Enjoy these delightful Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over pasta of your choice or simply on their own—it’s comforting goodness at its best!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Creating the perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Soak the breadcrumbs: Allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in milk before mixing ensures a moist and tender meatball that won’t dry out during cooking.
• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle for that light and fluffy texture.
• Use a cookie scoop: For evenly sized meatballs, use a cookie scoop to portion them out. This helps ensure they cook uniformly, resulting in perfectly crispy outsides and juicy insides.
• Bake instead of fry: Baking the meatballs gives them a nice crisp without needing extra oil. It’s healthier and easier for cleanup!
• Let them simmer: After adding the meatballs to the sauce, let them simmer for a couple of minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing every bite.

How to Serve Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Presentation makes all the difference when serving this delicious dish! Let’s explore some delightful ways to present your Chicken Ricotta Meatballs that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a fresh herbal note that brightens up the creamy sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan on top enhances the flavor profile while adding an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side, steamed broccoli adds a crunchy texture and vibrant green contrast against the creamy meatballs.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan complements the richness of the meatballs while providing a refreshing balance.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a colorful and hearty element to your meal, making it even more satisfying while keeping it healthy.

With these tips and serving suggestions, I hope you feel inspired to create your own delicious Chicken Ricotta Meatballs! Enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week without the fuss of daily cooking. Here’s how to store and reheat them effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Chicken Ricotta Meatballs.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken in Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield equally tender meatballs. Just follow the same instructions for preparation!

What can I serve with Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, rice, or even zoodles for a lighter option. A side salad or garlic bread also complements this dish wonderfully!

How can I make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs healthier?

To make these meatballs healthier, consider using whole grain breadcrumbs, reducing the amount of cheese, or adding more vegetables to the mixture for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Chicken Ricotta Meatballs as I am! This dish not only brings together comforting flavors but also gives you the flexibility to enjoy it any night of the week. Remember that cooking is all about experimenting and sharing good food with loved ones. Enjoy preparing this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions along the way!