Delicious Southern Style Baked Chicken Meatballs

Name: Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: Ground chicken; Ricotta cheese; Fresh spinach; Panko breadcrumbs; Parmesan cheese; Garlic powder; Italian seasoning; Alfredo sauce; Olive oil; Salt and pepper

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

March 9, 2025

Updated:

March 9, 2025

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Imagine biting into a perfectly baked meatball, tender and juicy with a hint of Southern charm. These Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce are not just a meal; they are an experience that will make your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing you with its promise of creamy alfredo goodness mingling with richly flavored chicken and the pop of fresh spinach.

Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable dinner party at my friend’s house when I first made these bad boys. I was nervous—would my culinary skills impress the crowd? As soon as those meatballs hit the table, the room fell silent except for the sound of forks clinking against plates. The laughter and compliments flowed almost as freely as the wine. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends; just be ready to share the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish combines easy preparation with an explosion of flavors that everyone adores
It’s visually stunning and versatile enough for any occasion or personal twist you want to add
The creamy spinach alfredo sauce elevates it from simple to spectacular!

I remember serving these meatballs at a family gathering; everyone raved about them and went for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken: Aim for lean ground chicken for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta to ensure creaminess and keep those meatballs moist.
Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green spinach; it adds both nutrition and color.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These light breadcrumbs help achieve that perfect texture without making them too dense.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for a fresher taste; it makes all the difference!
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
Italian Seasoning Blend: This blend will bring out all those herby flavors we love in Italian cooking.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this sauce is essential for that creamy finish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps in browning your meatballs beautifully in the oven.
Black Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper; this will save you from sticky situations later.

Create Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Mold Those Meatballs: Using your hands (dampened slightly to avoid sticking), form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—this should yield about 18-20 meatballs.

Bake Them Up: Place the formed meatballs on your prepared baking sheet and lightly drizzle olive oil over them. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Add the Sauce: While those beauties are baking, warm up your favorite alfredo sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s bubbling gently—don’t let it boil!

Toss & Serve: Once baked, carefully transfer those golden meatballs into the warm alfredo sauce. Toss gently so they get coated evenly before serving.

Now you’ve got yourself a plateful of heavenly Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce! Just pair them with some garlic bread or a side salad… if you’re feeling healthy!

This recipe is bound to become a family favorite; enjoy each delicious bite while basking in compliments from your loved ones!

You Must Know

Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce delivers comfort in every bite
Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite for gatherings, while also being a delightful surprise for your dinner table
The aroma alone will have everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the meatballs first to lock in flavor, then bake them while simmering the luscious spinach Alfredo sauce.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add your favorite herbs like basil for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To perfectly mix meatballs, avoid overworking the meat; this keeps them tender
Always let your meatballs rest before serving to enhance flavor absorption
Use freshly grated cheese for richer taste and better melting qualities in your sauce

Sharing my first attempt at these Southern Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs was unforgettable; my friends devoured them and requested the recipe immediately.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground beef adds a different richness and flavor to the dish.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed cornflakes.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Serve with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal experience.

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