Description
Creamy Chicken Meatballs with Spinach Sauce
Cheese lovers rejoice! These meatballs in a parmesan-rich sauce are the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients:
Chicken mince
Garlic & onion
Parmesan cheese
Spinach
Cream
Spaghetti
Preparation:
Blend chicken, breadcrumbs, and cheese. Shape into meatballs.
Sear until crisp, then remove.
Prepare sauce with spinach, garlic, and cream. Stir in parmesan.
Serve with spaghetti.
#CheesyDream
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large bowl, combine 500g chicken mince, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 finely grated onion, and season well. Mix until just combined.
2. With damp hands, roll the mixture into 18-20 small, evenly-sized meatballs.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs, working in batches if needed, and sear for 5-7 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Transfer to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté 2 more minced garlic cloves for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add 200ml of heavy cream and 100g of fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce begins to simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in 3/4 cup of grated parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Simmer gently for 5-8 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
8. Meanwhile, cook 400g of spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
9. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce and meatballs, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy meatballs immediately over the spaghetti for a classic presentation. Garnish with extra grated parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil. For a complete meal, pair with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious spinach sauce.
How-to Summary
Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, and onion. Form into meatballs and sear until golden. Create a creamy sauce in the same pan with garlic, spinach, cream, and more parmesan. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce until cooked. Serve over freshly cooked spaghetti.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey or a mix of pork and veal are excellent substitutes for the chicken mince.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the meatballs, and serve with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely. You can form the meatballs and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What if my sauce is too thick? Thin it out by gradually stirring in a little reserved pasta water, milk, or additional cream until your desired consistency is reached.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meatball ingredients, which can result in tough, dense meatballs.
- Crowding the pan when searing the meatballs, which steams them instead of creating a flavorful, crispy crust.
- Adding the parmesan cheese to the sauce over high heat, which can cause it to clump or become grainy.
- Using pre-grated parmesan from a canister, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water, which is a key tool for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Meatballs with Spinach Sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of comforting protein and a luxurious, cheesy sauce. It’s a straightforward yet impressive dish that transforms simple ingredients into a decadent weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a recipe that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate. Enjoy your #CheesyDream!