Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Spinach Ricotta Bites featuring creamy ricotta cheese combined with fresh spinach and Parmesan, coated in breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties or a savory snack, offering a crispy outside and a soft, flavorful inside.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, finely chopped fresh spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Stir in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs until a sticky dough forms. Add more breadcrumbs if the mixture is too wet to hold shape.
- Form Bites: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Then coat each ball evenly with additional breadcrumbs to create a crispy crust.
- Arrange and Spray: Place the spinach ricotta bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to help with browning and crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, turning the bites halfway through the cooking time to ensure golden brown and crispy texture all around.
- Serve: Serve the baked spinach ricotta bites warm, optionally with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the spinach is well-drained and finely chopped to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
- These bites can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Keywords: Spinach Ricotta Bites, vegetarian appetizer, baked bites, ricotta spinach balls, easy party snacks