Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

If you’ve been craving comfort food that’s both luscious and a little unexpected, Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce is your new go-to. Imagine juicy, tender chicken meatballs—boosted with creamy ricotta for impossible moisture—baked just right and nestled in a velvety spinach Alfredo that clings to every bite. This Delicious Recipe somehow manages to be family-friendly, a little bit fancy, and weeknight-ready all at once. Trust me, you’re going to want this one at the top of your dinner rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—every ingredient does some heavy lifting, from building that savory meatball base to elevating the sauce with color and creaminess. Here’s a list of what you’ll need and exactly why each one matters.

• Ground chicken: Lean yet flavorful, ground chicken forms the tender foundation for these Southern-style meatballs.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds incredible moisture and a subtle creaminess that keeps the meatballs far from dry.
• Egg: Helps to bind the mixture so your meatballs hold together beautifully.
• Bread crumbs (preferably panko): Give heft and texture, while keeping the inside fluffy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty edge, making every bite more savory.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Essential for depth and classic Southern flavor.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Brings brightness that cuts through all the richness.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: The classic dynamic duo for balanced seasoning throughout.
• Olive oil or nonstick spray: Ensures the meatballs bake up golden on the outside without sticking.
• Butter: For the Alfredo sauce; it starts the party with its irresistible richness.
• Heavy cream: Creates that luxurious, thick Alfredo texture you love.
• More Parmesan cheese: Melds into the sauce for mouthwatering cheesy flavor.
• Baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and fresh vegetal flavor to the creamy sauce.
• Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch brings warmth and subtle depth to the Alfredo.

How to Make Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Chicken Ricotta Meatball Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to mix just until everything is evenly incorporated—don’t overwork it, or the meatballs could become tough. The mixture should feel moist yet firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. Lightly oil or spray the surface so nothing sticks. Scoop the chicken mixture into heaping tablespoon-sized mounds and gently roll them into balls. Place each one about an inch apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and cooked through. They’re absolutely irresistible straight from the oven!

Step 3: Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

While the meatballs bake, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, stirring occasionally as it begins to gently simmer. Whisk in the Parmesan until smooth and melted for that signature Alfredo gloss. Toss in the spinach and cook just until wilted—this only takes a minute or two. If you want, grate in a little nutmeg for a subtle Southern twist.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked, nestle them into the skillet with the warm spinach Alfredo sauce. Turn to coat each meatball and let everything mingle together for a minute over low heat, so the flavors meld. Get ready, because scooping into this pan is the best part of the Delicious Recipe experience!

How to Serve Delicious Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle the finished dish with extra chopped parsley, a dusting of Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper. For a color pop and subtle crunch, try thinly sliced green onions or a pinch of red pepper flakes—little details that take the Delicious Recipe from good to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This Southern-style main pairs beautifully with buttered noodles, fluffy mashed potatoes, or even a simple rice pilaf. Want extra color? Serve it alongside garlicky green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp Southern slaw—these sides absorb the sauce and make the meal feel like a true feast.

Creative Ways to Present

To turn heads at your table, try baking the meatballs in a cast iron skillet and bringing it straight to the table, family style. Or pile the meatballs and sauce onto lightly toasted hoagie rolls for an over-the-top sandwich. Even served individually in small ramekins, the Delicious Recipe will shine at your next gathering as an elegant starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover meatballs and sauce cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors develop even more as they sit, making lunches and fast dinners extra tempting.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked meatballs—cooled and separated on a tray first—then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. The spinach Alfredo sauce can also be frozen in a separate container, though fresh sauce always tastes best. Thaw both overnight in the fridge before reheating for that Delicious Recipe goodness any time.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat meatballs and sauce together gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if things look too thick. The microwave also works in a pinch—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring often, so the sauce stays creamy and the meatballs don’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this Delicious Recipe and provides a similar tenderness and mild flavor. Just be sure to choose a variety with a little fat for the best texture.

Is there a lower-fat option for the Alfredo sauce?

While traditional Alfredo thrives on richness, you can swap some of the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. The sauce will be lighter but still luscious, especially with plenty of Parmesan and wilted spinach mixed in.

How do I keep the meatballs from getting dry?

The ricotta cheese is the secret to juicy meatballs! Don’t skip it, and mix the ingredients gently. Also, avoid overbaking—pull the meatballs as soon as they reach 165°F internally for the ideal Southern-style bite in this Delicious Recipe.

Can I make this Delicious Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs and double-check that your Parmesan is certified gluten-free. Serve the meatballs with gluten-free pasta or rice, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table.

Can I add more veggies to the sauce?

Of course! While spinach is a classic add-in, finely chopped broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or even a handful of sun-dried tomatoes can be folded into the Alfredo. Customize the Delicious Recipe to match your family’s favorite flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Delicious Recipe—it’s that rare mix of soul-warming, impressive, and totally doable. There’s just something about the tender, ricotta-kissed chicken meatballs paired with a decadent spinach Alfredo that makes every meal feel special. Gather your ingredients, call in your favorite taste testers, and let this Southern-inspired comfort dish steal the show at your table!

Print