Southern-Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

That sounds indulgent and delicious — a fusion of Southern comfort and creamy Italian flavor. Here’s a hearty, flavorful recipe for Southern-Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs paired with a rich Spinach Alfredo Sauce. Perfect over pasta, grits, or even mashed potatoes.

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🍗 Southern-Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce

🧾 Ingredients:

For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Southern-style cornbread crumbs)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (adds that Southern flair)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1–2 dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1–2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, classic in Alfredo)

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease.

3. In a large bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix).

4. Form into golf ball–sized meatballs (~1.5 inches).

5. Place on baking sheet and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).

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2. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in cream, bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth.

5. Add spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).

6. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).

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3. Combine:

• Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to coat and warm through.

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🥣 Serve Over:

• Buttery mashed potatoes

• Creamy grits (for a real Southern touch)

• Fettuccine or pappardelle pasta

• Garlic bread or cornbread on the side

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🔄 Optional Add-Ons:

• Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce for extra depth.

• Use collard greens or kale instead of spinach for a Southern twist.

• Top with fresh basil or extra Parmesan before serving.

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Would you like a gluten-free, low-carb, or make-ahead freezer-friendly version of this dish?