These Spinach Ricotta Bites are the kind of snack that disappears fast. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, and packed with nutritious spinach and savory Parmesan. Whether you’re hosting friends, meal prepping, or looking for a healthy snack for the kids, these bites are a total win—easy to make, easy to love, and impossible to resist.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Ricotta Bites
Everything about these bites is comforting yet wholesome, with ingredients that come together in minutes.
- Crispy exterior with a creamy, cheesy center
- Baked or air-fried—no deep-frying needed
- Nutritious and kid-friendly
- Perfect for parties, meal prep, or snacks
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Delicious warm or at room temperature
I created this recipe after a late-night fridge clean-out—half a tub of ricotta, a handful of spinach, and leftover breadcrumbs became these golden bites. My mom would’ve called it “accidental genius,” and she’d be right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients, big flavor—these bites are all about balance.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – creamy base for the mixture
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – adds color and nutrients
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – savory and salty depth
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – subtle flavor boost
- ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – mild spice
- 1 large egg – binds the mixture
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – gives structure and crunch
- Olive oil spray – helps crisp up the coating
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for bolder flavor
- Mix in chopped herbs like basil or parsley for freshness
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
- Serve with marinara or yogurt dip for a perfect pairing
Step-by-Step Instructions
When I make these, I’m not aiming for perfection—I’m aiming for flavor and crunch. The golden brown shell against the creamy filling? That’s comfort food done right.
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat air fryer to 360°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil the air fryer basket. - Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and egg. Stir until smooth and fully mixed. - Form the Bites
Add breadcrumbs and stir to thicken. Scoop small portions (about a tablespoon each) and roll into balls. Coat lightly with extra breadcrumbs for crispness. - Bake or Air Fry
Arrange on prepared tray or basket. Spray tops lightly with olive oil.
- Oven: Bake 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Air Fryer: Cook 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Cool and Serve
Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving—they firm up as they rest.
Quick Reminders:
- Drain excess moisture from ricotta if needed.
- Finely chop spinach so it mixes evenly.
- Use an oil spray instead of brushing to keep them light.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest bite.
Expert Tips for Success
These little bites are forgiving but benefit from a few pro moves.
- Use fresh, not frozen spinach for best texture.
- Chill the mixture 10 minutes before rolling—it holds shape better.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness before serving.
- For meal prep, double the batch—they freeze and reheat beautifully.
- Try them alongside my Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries or Baked Chicken Meatballs for a healthy party spread.
Serving Suggestions
These Spinach Ricotta Bites fit anywhere—from snack trays to dinner sides.
- Serve with marinara, ranch, or yogurt dip
- Pair with a crisp garden salad for a light meal
- Add to lunchboxes for a protein-rich snack
- Offer them as appetizers during game nights or gatherings
- Top with fresh herbs or grated cheese for presentation
Storing and Reheating
These bites stay delicious for days and crisp up easily again.
How to Store It
- Cool completely before storing
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking
How to Reheat It
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes
- Air fry at 360°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness
- Avoid microwaving—it softens the coating
- Brush or spray lightly with oil before reheating for a golden finish
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: ~4 bites
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes—just thaw completely and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for coating.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, roll and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Spinach Ricotta Bites bring together simplicity, nutrition, and pure comfort in one bite. They’re golden, savory, and endlessly versatile—proof that healthy can still taste indulgent. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or snack, these little bites always steal the show.
- Keep the mixture thick for easy shaping
- Bake until golden for crunch and flavor
- Serve warm for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture
Spinach Ricotta Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or air fryer to 360°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or oil the air fryer basket.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and egg until smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs to the mixture and stir to thicken. Roll into tablespoon-sized balls and coat lightly with extra breadcrumbs.
- Place bites on tray or in basket. Spray tops lightly with olive oil.
- Oven: Bake for 19 minutes until golden. Air Fryer: Cook for 11 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving to firm up.
Nutrition
Notes
- Wine replaced with low-sodium broth + lemon if mentioned.
- No pork present. .
