Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than my Chicken Ricotta Meatballs! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet comforting. The combination of tender chicken and creamy ricotta makes these meatballs a delightful twist on the classic recipe. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll understand why they hold such a special place in my heart.

These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are not just delicious; they’re also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy dinner with loved ones or a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip up these meatballs without breaking a sweat. Perfect for any home cook!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love meatballs! These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are juicy and flavorful, making them a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for quick dinners later. Just bake and toss in the sauce!
• Delicious Flavor: The rich flavors of ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes create an unforgettable taste experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the ultimate comfort food dish. Gather your essentials and let’s get started!

For the Meatballs

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium onion, very finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1.5 pounds (700 grams) ground chicken or turkey
• 6 ounces whole milk ricotta (approximately 3/4 cup)
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce

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

Variations

This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or even lean beef instead of chicken for different flavor profiles.
• Add some heat: If you love spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to give your meatballs an extra kick.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley to switch up the flavor.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat ricotta and cream alternatives to create a lighter version without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 450°F (235°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. A well-prepped workspace sets you up for success!

Step 2: Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a medium bowl, combine your breadcrumbs with milk and let them soak for about two minutes. This step ensures that your meatballs stay moist and tender while cooking.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

Next, add onion, garlic, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes into your food processor. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. This mixture adds wonderful flavor and moisture to the meatballs.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix your vegetable blend with ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir gently until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs!

Step 5: Shape the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into about 18-20 meatballs that are approximately 2.5 inches in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and give them a light spray of cooking oil to help achieve that golden-brown exterior.

Step 6: Bake Until Crisp

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until they’re crisp on the outside and cooked through. The high temperature gives them that lovely texture we all crave!

Step 7: Make the Sauce

While your meatballs bake, fry bacon until crispy in a large skillet. After removing it from the pan (saving it for garnish!), melt butter in the same skillet. Sauté some minced garlic briefly before pouring in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper; then whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 8: Add Spinach & Combine

Once your sauce is creamy and deliciously fragrant, stir in baby spinach until wilted. Finally, add those baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs into the skillet and let everything simmer together for about two minutes so those flavors meld perfectly.

Step 9: Serve It Up!

Serve your luscious Chicken Ricotta Meatballs generously over pasta of choice. Don’t forget to sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top along with freshly chopped parsley for that finishing touch!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal! I can’t wait for you to share this recipe with your friends and family—it’s bound to become their new favorite too!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Creating the perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your meatballs come out delicious every time!

• Soak the breadcrumbs: This step helps keep the meatballs moist and tender, preventing them from becoming dry during cooking.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle!
• Use a cookie scoop: For evenly sized meatballs, a cookie scoop ensures consistency in size and cooking time, resulting in perfectly round meatballs.
• Bake instead of fry: Baking gives you a healthier option while still achieving that delightful crispiness on the outside without the added oil.
• Let them rest: After baking, let the meatballs sit for a few minutes before adding them to the sauce. This helps them hold their shape and enhances their flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Presentation can elevate any dish, and these Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are no exception! Serve them creatively for a meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of additional Parmesan just before serving enhances the creamy flavors of the Alfredo sauce and adds an extra touch of richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds color and a nutritious boost to your meal, balancing out the creaminess of the sauce.
• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complements the rich flavors of chicken ricotta meatballs beautifully.
• Pasta salad: A light pasta salad with vegetables and a zesty dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs recipe is perfect for meal prep lovers! You can easily whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week or keep on hand for unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best results, separate the meatballs from the sauce if you plan to reheat them.

Freezing

• Once cooled, place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, storing them with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating leftovers from the refrigerator, you can warm them up in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
• Alternatively, microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Ricotta Meatballs!

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. It will offer a slightly different flavor but still maintain the dish’s overall deliciousness.

What should I serve with Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles). You can add a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

The total time for this recipe is about 40 minutes, including both preparation and cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! These meatballs are fantastic for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer as outlined above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Chicken Ricotta Meatballs! They bring together comforting flavors and textures that your family will love. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep solution, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite and share your experiences in the kitchen; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!