Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken (98% fat-free, approx. 0-1 SmartPoints per 4 oz depending on WW plan)
  • 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese (2 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (2 SmartPoints)
  • 1 egg (0 SmartPoints on most plans)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (2 SmartPoints)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (0 SmartPoints)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

  • 1 tsp olive oil (1 SmartPoint)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped (0 SmartPoints)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (0 SmartPoints on most plans)
  • 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (2 SmartPoints)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs tough.
  • Roll the mixture into approximately 16-18 small meatballs (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.

2. Make the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

  • While the meatballs bake, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Lower the heat and stir in the almond milk, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine and Serve:

  • Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
  • Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

SmartPoints Breakdown (per serving, serves 4):

  • Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: 5 SmartPoints
  • Spinach Alfredo Sauce: 1 SmartPoint

Total: 6 SmartPoints per serving on Green, Blue, and Purple plans (estimated; always confirm in the WW app)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

  • Calories: ~280 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: ~8g
  • Protein: ~29g
  • Fat: ~12g
  • Fiber: ~2g

Tips:

  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over spiralized zucchini or steamed broccoli.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning to the meatball mix for a boost.

These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce offer a creamy and satisfying meal that’s easy on the points, perfect for a cozy, guilt-free dinner!