Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: A Delicious Italian-Inspired Dish

If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-make recipe that will impress your family or guests, look no further than these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs. These tender, juicy meatballs are baked to perfection and smothered in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce with crispy bacon. It’s a dish that combines the richness of Italian flavors with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, from the ingredients and equipment to step-by-step instructions and tips for success. Plus, we’ll dive into why this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian-inspired cuisine.

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Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

1. Flavor-Packed: The combination of ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a meatball that’s bursting with flavor.
2. Creamy and Savory Sauce: The creamy spinach Alfredo sauce with crispy bacon takes this dish to the next level.
3. Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is straightforward and uses simple, accessible ingredients.
4. Versatile: Serve these meatballs with pasta, crusty bread, or even over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs reheat beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

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Ingredients for Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 medium onion, very finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1.5 pounds (700 grams) ground chicken or turkey
• 6 ounces whole milk ricotta (approximately ¾ cup)
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, as needed

For the Creamy Sauce

• 6 bacon strips
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cooking cream (35% fat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 5 ounces (150 grams) baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, to garnish

Equipment

• Meat thermometer
• Food processor
• Electric meat grinder (optional)
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet or nonstick pan

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (235°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with milk. Set aside to soak for 2 minutes. This step helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes to your food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 4: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetable mixture with the ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.

Step 5: Shape the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 18-20 meatballs, each about 2.5 inches in size. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Meatballs

Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are crisp on the outside and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Cook the Bacon

While the meatballs are baking, heat a large skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Fry the bacon until crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate and set aside.

Step 8: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.

Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until wilted.

Step 9: Combine the Meatballs and Sauce

Add the baked meatballs to the creamy sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Chop the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

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 The Secret to Perfectly Tender Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

When it comes to making Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, the key to achieving tender, juicy meatballs lies in the ingredients and technique. Ground chicken is a lean protein, which means it can easily dry out if not handled properly. That’s where ricotta cheese comes in. Ricotta adds moisture and richness to the meatballs, ensuring they stay soft and flavorful even after baking.

Another crucial step is soaking the breadcrumbs in milk. This mixture, known as a panade, acts as a binder and keeps the meatballs from becoming too dense. Be sure to use fresh breadcrumbs or high-quality store-bought ones for the best texture. Overmixing the meatball mixture can also lead to tough meatballs, so mix the ingredients just until combined.

The addition of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, and Italian seasoning adds layers of flavor to the meatballs. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken, while parsley brightens the dish with its fresh, herbaceous notes. Italian seasoning ties everything together with its blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.

Finally, baking the meatballs at a high temperature (450°F) ensures they develop a crispy exterior while staying moist inside. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F guarantees they’re fully cooked without overbaking.

By following these tips, you’ll create Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs that are tender, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.

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 The Creamy Spinach Alfredo Sauce – A Flavorful Companion

No Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs dish is complete without the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. This sauce is the perfect complement to the meatballs, adding richness and depth to the dish. The base of the sauce is a classic Alfredo, made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

The process begins with frying bacon until crispy, which not only adds a smoky flavor but also leaves behind rendered fat that enhances the sauce. After removing the bacon, garlic is sautéed in butter until fragrant, creating a flavorful foundation. Heavy cream is then added and simmered until slightly thickened, followed by grated Parmesan cheese, which melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.

Baby spinach is stirred into the sauce, wilting just enough to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. Spinach adds a fresh, earthy element that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. The result is a sauce that’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor.

When the baked meatballs are added to the sauce, they soak up all the delicious flavors, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The crispy bacon is crumbled on top as a garnish, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.

This creamy spinach Alfredo sauce is versatile and can be used in other dishes, such as pasta or casseroles. However, paired with Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, it truly shines.

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 Serving Suggestions and Meal Prep Tips

One of the best things about Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs is their versatility. While they’re delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate the meal to a whole new level. For a classic Italian-inspired dinner, serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of al dente pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, creating a luxurious bite every time.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving the meatballs with zucchini noodles or steamed vegetables. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the freshness of veggies, making it a balanced and satisfying meal. For a heartier option, serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes or polenta, allowing the sauce to act as a flavorful gravy.

These meatballs are also perfect for meal prep. You can bake a large batch and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep them moist.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese make a big difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Soak the Breadcrumbs: This step ensures the meatballs stay moist and tender.
4. Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked.
5. Customize the Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving of these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs contains approximately:

• Calories: 206 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 87mg
• Sodium: 506mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works just as well in this recipe. It’s a great alternative if you prefer a slightly leaner option.

Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and reheat them when ready to serve.

What Can I Serve with These Meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile and pair well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Can I Freeze the Meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.

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Final Thoughts

These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a true crowd-pleaser, combining tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich and creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to customize and perfect for meal prep.