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Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe

Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe

5.2 from 30 reviews

These Spinach Ricotta Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack featuring a creamy ricotta and fresh spinach filling, coated in crispy breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or a quick bite, they offer a flavorful combination of cheese, herbs, and a light crunch.

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 line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the large egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Add Breadcrumbs: Stir in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs into the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet, add additional breadcrumbs a little at a time to reach the desired consistency for shaping.
  4. Shape Bites: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Then, coat each ball evenly with extra breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer crust when baked.
  5. Arrange and Prepare for Baking: Place the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart so they bake evenly. Lightly spray the bites with olive oil spray to encourage browning and crispness.
  6. Bake: Bake the bites in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Turn them halfway through the baking time to ensure they brown evenly on all sides and become crispy.
  7. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve the spinach ricotta bites warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce such as marinara for added flavor.

Notes

  • Choose fresh spinach and chop finely for best texture.
  • If the mixture is too sticky, add extra breadcrumbs gradually for easier shaping.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.
  • Use olive oil spray to reduce added oil while maintaining crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach ricotta bites, cheesy spinach snacks, baked ricotta balls, Italian appetizer, vegetarian bites