Who knew meatballs could be so creamy and delicious?
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, look no further than these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs! Bursting with flavor and a delightfully creamy texture, these meatballs come together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a perfect recipe for those busy weeknights or weekend dinner parties that need a little extra flair. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why make this recipe?
Why settle for boring when you can whip up something truly magical? Here are a few reasons you’ll want to make these meatballs your go-to:
- One-pan wonder: You’ll save time by tossing everything together in one bowl and baking them on a single sheet.
- Kid-approved: A guaranteed hit with the whole family, even your picky eater may ask for seconds—who can resist cheesy goodness?
- Affordable: With just a handful of ingredients, you can serve a meal that feels fancy without breaking the bank. Who doesn’t love a good deal? 😊
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Just follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Serve as an appetizer or over pasta with a cream sauce if desired.
How to make Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs (Overview)
Making Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs is a stress-free process. Start by mixing all your ingredients in a bowl—yes, it’s that easy! Once you’ve formed your meatballs, just place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and pop them in the oven. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic—it adds a depth of flavor that’ll keep everyone guessing what your secret is!
How to serve Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Imagine these golden-brown beauties served over a bed of spaghetti, drizzled with your favorite marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Or, go the appetizer route and serve them with toothpicks for dipping into a creamy garlic aioli. The aromas, the colors, and the crunch of freshly baked meatballs will have everyone running to the table! ❤️
How to store Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
These meatballs are great for leftovers! Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Want to save some for later? Freeze them for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through—perfect for a last-minute meal!
Tips to make Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Don’t overcrowd the meatballs on the baking sheet. Give them some space; they need room to brown nicely!
- Swap out the ground chicken for turkey or beef if you prefer. Just adjust the seasonings if needed to suit your flavor preference.
- Add a touch of red pepper flakes to spice things up a bit. 🔥
- Don’t hesitate to play around with the cheese—mozzarella or feta can give your meatballs a fun twist!
Variations
Feel like playing with the flavors? Here are a few ideas:
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based grounds and swap out the ricotta for a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add some veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms for a little texture surprise.
- For an Italian twist, add in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives. It’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even pork will work. Just adjust seasonings as needed.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
You sure can! Prepare them and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them and cook straight from the freezer.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Use a meat thermometer; they’re cooked through when they reach 165°F (75°C).
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve as an appetizer or over pasta with a cream sauce if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and marinara sauce if serving over spaghetti.