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Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 72 reviews

These Spinach Ricotta Bites are deliciously creamy on the inside with a crispy breadcrumb coating, making them perfect bite-sized appetizers for any gathering. Combining fresh spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese with a hint of garlic, these savory bites are baked to golden perfection and can be served warm with your favorite marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, finely chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and well incorporated.
  3. Add Breadcrumbs: Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet, gradually add more breadcrumbs to achieve a consistency that can be rolled into balls without falling apart.
  4. Form Bites: Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls, approximately 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Then, coat each ball evenly in additional breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer crust once baked.
  5. Arrange and Spray: Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even air circulation. Lightly spray the bites with olive oil spray to help them crisp up during baking.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Halfway through baking, turn the bites over to ensure they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the spinach ricotta bites warm. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing their flavor.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Ensure spinach is finely chopped to blend well with the ricotta mixture for better texture.
  • These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to retain their crispiness.
  • Adding a bit of freshly grated nutmeg to the mixture can enhance the flavor profile.
  • Use olive oil spray sparingly to avoid sogginess while baking.

Keywords: spinach ricotta bites, vegetarian appetizer, bite sized snacks, baked ricotta balls, Italian finger food, spinach appetizers

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/spinach-ricotta-bites-recipe/