These Spinach and Ricotta Balls are the perfect blend of creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and savory Parmesan. With a hint of garlic and nutmeg, these bite-sized delights are both healthy and delicious. They make a wonderful appetizer, snack, or side dish and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Easy to prepare and bake, these cheesy bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, offering a satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the Balls: Use your hands to shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Drizzle the spinach and ricotta balls with olive oil to help them brown nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy these cheesy, flavorful bites!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings (approximately 12-16 balls, depending on size).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Herbs: Add fresh or dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Cheese Variations: If you want a different twist, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or add a bit of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds to make this recipe gluten-free.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These spinach and ricotta balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to warm through and crisp up again.

10 FAQs

Can I freeze these spinach and ricotta balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked balls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen, just add an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw it and squeeze out all excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
How can I make these healthier?
To make these balls healthier, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese and reduce or omit the olive oil drizzle before baking.
Can I make these without egg?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg or a little bit of applesauce if you need an egg-free version.
Do these spinach and ricotta balls need to be served hot?
While these are best enjoyed hot, they can be served at room temperature and still taste delicious.
Can I bake these balls in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook these in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Can I make a dip to go with these?
Yes, these pairs well with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a yogurt-based dip.
Are these gluten-free?
The recipe as written contains breadcrumbs, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
Can I add more vegetables to the mixture?
Yes, you can add vegetables like grated zucchini, mushrooms, or even onions to the mixture for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Spinach and Ricotta Balls are a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition. These cheesy, crispy bites are packed with healthy spinach and delicious ricotta, making them a satisfying snack or side dish for any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with a light salad, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Simple to make, versatile, and utterly delicious, these spinach and ricotta balls are a must-try!