Name: Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating); Olive oil spray

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Spinach Ricotta Bites are delicious, bite-sized snacks perfect for parties or a quick appetizer. These golden, crispy treats combine creamy ricotta with fresh spinach for a savory flavor that everyone will love.

A metal tray lined with white parchment paper holds multiple small green and white round balls made of a mixed dough, arranged neatly in rows. A male arm reaching from the right side of the image is picking up one of the balls. The mixed dough appears speckled with chopped leafy greens and small chunks of a white ingredient, creating a marbled green and white texture on each ball. The surface below the tray is a white marbled texture with some wooden elements visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
Olive oil spray

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs to the mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms. If needed, add more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency.
Step 4: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Coat each ball evenly with additional breadcrumbs for a crisp crust.
Step 5: Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
Step 6: Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the bites halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve warm, optionally with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the mixture.
If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
To make the bites more substantial, you can mix in some finely chopped cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan ricotta substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Storage

Store any leftover spinach ricotta bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

Round spinach and cheese balls are arranged closely on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Each ball has a rough textured surface with visible green spinach mixed inside creamy white cheese, topped with a golden brown, crunchy breadcrumb layer. The balls are evenly sized and baked to a light crisp, showing slight browning on top. The tray rests on a white marbled surface, enhancing the warm colors of the baked balls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the spinach ricotta bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the bites a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze these bites?

Absolutely. Freeze the uncooked bites on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.