Description
These Spinach and Ricotta Balls are irresistibly cheesy, packed with flavor, and baked to golden perfection. Made with fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and savory Parmesan, they’re the perfect appetizer, side dish, or snack. Enjoy them on their own, dipped in marinara sauce, or added to pasta for an extra burst of cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the cooled spinach to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the balls lightly with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as a delicious side dish!
Notes
- For a crispier texture, lightly broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Swap out regular breadcrumbs for panko for a crunchier bite.
- These taste amazing with a drizzle of marinara sauce or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Spinach Ricotta Balls, Cheesy Spinach Bites, Baked Ricotta Balls, Spinach and Cheese Snacks