Chicken ricotta meatballs with spinach alfredo sauce is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick yet satisfying. The creamy alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the tender meatballs, and the addition of spinach makes it feel just a bit healthier. It's a dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors with a touch of homey comfort, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables to add a bit of freshness and crunch. If you're feeling indulgent, serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A glass of crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lemon would complement the flavors nicely.

Servings: 4

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
1 tablespoon butter

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the spinach alfredo sauce. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the meatballs are done, pour the spinach alfredo sauce over them in the skillet. Serve hot.

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of chicken. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat or swap out the spinach for kale if you prefer. For a vegetarian twist, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute and adjust the cooking time as needed.

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