Ricotta Spinach Meatballs with Garlic Parmesan Cream
Ricotta Spinach Meatballs with Garlic Parmesan Cream is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of ricotta cheese and the healthiness of spinach, all wrapped in juicy meatballs covered in a luscious garlic cream sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This dish is loved for multiple reasons: the tender chicken or turkey meatballs are packed with flavor, thanks to the blend of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta. The addition of garlic and Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor profile, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Moreover, the garlic Parmesan cream sauce is incredibly versatile; it can be drizzled over pasta, vegetables, or even served as a dipping sauce. This recipe is also a great protein source, making it a wholesome choice for family meals.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make Ricotta Spinach Meatballs with Garlic Parmesan Cream:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Step 3: Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 8: Serve the baked meatballs topped generously with the garlic Parmesan cream sauce.
Pro Tips
Here are a few pro tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly:
- For extra flavor, let the meatball mixture rest for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- You can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef or pork for a richer flavor.
- If you want to make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them completely for a low-carb version.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as necessary.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the meatball mixture.
Q: How can I serve these meatballs?
A: They can be served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a salad. The garlic Parmesan cream sauce also makes a great dipping sauce.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store the meatballs and the sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: You can substitute the ricotta with dairy-free cheese and use a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream for the sauce.
Conclusion
Ricotta Spinach Meatballs with Garlic Parmesan Cream is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Try it today and enjoy the delightful flavors of this hearty meal!
