Spinach Ricotta Bites

Posted by: Authentic Flavors Made Easy

These Spinach Ricotta Bites are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. Made with creamy ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, and herbs, they’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch. Serve them with marinara or garlic aioli for a crowd-pleasing bite.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 20 bites

Ingredients

• 2 cups (500 g) whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
• 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and well squeezed)
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (60 g) Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional for Extra Crispiness

• ½ cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For Serving

• Warm marinara sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
3. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to make shaping easier.
4. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls.
5. For an extra crispy coating, roll each bite in the panko breadcrumbs.
6. Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
7. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and firm.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving with warm marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Option

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange the bites in a single layer.
• Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

• Marinara sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Pasta
• Soup

Tips

• Drain the ricotta well to prevent the mixture from becoming watery.
• Squeeze as much moisture as possible from frozen spinach before using.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crispy.