Description
These Irresistibly Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Delights are golden-baked bites of creamy ricotta, savory Parmesan, and tender spinach, lightly seasoned and perfect for snacking, entertaining, or serving as a light vegetarian main. Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside once you try one, you’ll be hooked.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach for 3–4 minutes until wilted. Set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Fold in the cooled spinach and mix until evenly incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and firm.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze any excess moisture out of the spinach before adding it to the mix this helps the balls stay firm while baking.
- These can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking perfect for easy prep.
- Want a crunchier exterior? Try rolling them in a bit of extra breadcrumbs before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Vegetarian
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 3–4 balls
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 330 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: spinach ricotta balls, baked ricotta bites, vegetarian appetizer, cheesy spinach bites