Description
Spinach Ricotta Bites are delightful, bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or snacks. These savory morsels combine creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic and spices, then baked to a golden, crispy perfection. Crispy on the outside with a tender, flavorful center, they are easy to prepare and make a crowd-pleasing treat.
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bites from sticking and to ensure even baking.
- 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. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Stir in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet or loose, add more breadcrumbs gradually until you reach a workable consistency.
- Form Bites: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Then, coat each ball thoroughly with additional breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.
- Arrange and Spray: Place the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to promote browning and crispness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Halfway through baking, turn the bites to ensure they brown evenly on all sides and develop a crispy crust.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bites cool slightly. Serve them warm, optionally with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Serve with a marinara or ranch dip for extra taste.
- Adjust garlic powder and seasoning to taste for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Spinach Ricotta Bites, appetizer, party snacks, baked ricotta bites, vegetarian appetizers, finger foods, Italian appetizers
