Southern Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo: A Comfort Food Classic with a Fresh Twist

There’s something truly special about dishes that blend comforting familiarity with vibrant, fresh flavors—and Southern Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo does exactly that. This dish is a celebration of comforting Southern cuisine, reimagined with a lighter, more wholesome approach that doesn’t sacrifice any of the indulgence or satisfaction.

At its core are tender, juicy chicken meatballs, made with creamy ricotta cheese and fragrant herbs, baked to golden perfection. Unlike traditional beef or pork meatballs, these chicken-based morsels bring a lighter, delicate texture that pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety spinach Alfredo sauce. The Alfredo sauce itself is a luscious combination of butter, cream, garlic, Parmesan, and fresh spinach, providing a silky coating with a burst of color and nutrition.

This recipe is perfect for those seeking a balanced meal that’s both hearty and wholesome—ideal for family dinners, weeknight meals, or impressing guests with a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that can easily become a favorite rotation in your recipe arsenal.

In this detailed guide, we will take you through every step of creating this Southern-inspired masterpiece—from selecting the freshest ingredients and preparing the perfect meatball mixture, to mastering the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce and baking the dish to golden perfection. Along the way, you’ll learn tips and tricks to customize the recipe, adapt it for dietary preferences, and create a dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and soul.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking for a fresh twist on classic comfort food, or a beginner eager to try a new culinary project, this recipe delivers a satisfying, wholesome meal that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is nourishing for the body.

Get ready to enjoy the irresistible combination of tender chicken ricotta meatballs nestled in creamy, garlicky spinach Alfredo—an elegant dish that feels like a warm Southern hug on a plate.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Southern Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients for the Meatballs

Key Ingredients for Meatballs:

• Ground chicken (preferably breast and thigh mix for moisture)

• Ricotta cheese (adds creaminess and tenderness)

• Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or thyme)

• Garlic (minced)

• Onion (finely diced or grated)

• Panko breadcrumbs (for light binding)

• Parmesan cheese (grated for flavor)

• Egg (to bind)

• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Mince garlic and dice onions finely for even distribution in the meatballs.

3. Chop fresh herbs finely; these add brightness and a fresh aroma.

Step 2: Mix and Shape the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • 1 pound ground chicken

   • 1 cup ricotta cheese

   • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

   • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

   • 1 large egg

   • 2 cloves minced garlic

   • ¼ cup finely diced onion

   • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or your choice of herbs)

   • 1 teaspoon salt

   • ½ teaspoon black pepper

2. Using clean hands or a large spoon, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

3. Shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs, about 20 in total, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.

3. Meatballs should be cooked through and golden on the outside (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

Key Ingredients for Alfredo:

• Butter (unsalted)

• Heavy cream or half-and-half

• Garlic (minced)

• Fresh spinach (washed and roughly chopped)

• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.

2. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

3. Pour in 1½ cups heavy cream and stir to combine.

4. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly (about 3–5 minutes), stirring occasionally.

5. Add 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking constantly until smooth and creamy.

6. Stir in 3 cups chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).

7. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Alfredo Sauce

1. Carefully add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the spinach Alfredo sauce.

2. Gently toss or spoon the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 6: Bake the Combined Dish (Optional for Extra Creaminess and Browning)

1. Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a lightly greased baking dish if not already in an oven-safe skillet.

2. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or mozzarella for a bubbly, golden top.

3. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, until the sauce bubbles and cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Step 7: Serving Suggestions

• Serve over freshly cooked pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Garnish with additional fresh parsley or basil for color and freshness.

• Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.