Comfort Food with a Creamy Southern Twist

When it comes to Southern-inspired comfort food, few dishes strike the perfect balance between indulgence and elegance like Southern-Style Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Creamy Spinach Alfredo. This dish takes everything you love about classic meatballs and creamy Alfredo sauce, then elevates it with tender ground chicken, rich ricotta cheese, and a silky spinach-infused cream sauce that feels restaurant-worthy yet comforting enough for a family dinner.

Unlike traditional fried meatballs, these chicken ricotta meatballs are oven-baked, making them lighter while still unbelievably moist. Ricotta cheese works its magic by keeping the meatballs tender and delicate, while Parmesan and Southern-style seasoning add layers of savory depth. Paired with a homemade creamy spinach Alfredo, the result is a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or anytime you want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, making it versatile enough for many occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy, tender meatballs thanks to ricotta cheese
Baked, not fried, for a lighter Southern-style dinner
Creamy spinach Alfredo sauce made from scratch
Family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and meal-prep approved
Perfect balance of comfort food and elegance

Ingredients

For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken
1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
¾ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Creamy Spinach Alfredo Sauce

3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Scoop and roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden on the outside.
Remove from the oven and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Spinach Alfredo

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to low and whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the baked meatballs to the Alfredo sauce, gently tossing to coat.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.

Southern Comfort Food Inspiration

Southern cooking is known for its heart, warmth, and ability to bring people together. This dish draws inspiration from traditional Southern cream sauces while incorporating Italian-style meatballs for a modern fusion. The baked method keeps things approachable, while ricotta cheese adds that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture often found in Southern casseroles and comfort dishes.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Use whole-milk ricotta for the best texture
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture
Bake on parchment to prevent sticking
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Southern Style: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles
Extra Cheesy: Stir mozzarella into the Alfredo sauce
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs

Serving Suggestions

Over fettuccine or penne pasta
With creamy mashed potatoes
Alongside roasted green beans or asparagus
With warm garlic bread for dipping

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) up to 3 months
Reheat gently on the stovetop with extra cream