Name: Spinach and Ricotta Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup cooked spinach, well-drained and finely chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for rolling); 1 large egg; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); Olive oil spray or drizzle (for baking or pan-frying)

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Spinach and Ricotta Balls are the kind of dish that magically disappears at gatherings—savory, tender, and packed with the goodness of leafy greens and creamy cheese. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian appetizer, a protein-packed snack, or a comforting addition to your Italian-inspired meal, these bite-sized morsels fit the bill. Each ball is golden on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, and they’re just as delicious dunked in marinara as they are enjoyed all on their own. Trust me: once you taste these, you’ll wonder how you ever entertained without them!

Spinach and Ricotta Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spinach and Ricotta Balls lies in their simplicity. Every ingredient brings something special, whether it’s a pop of color, a creamy base, a touch of umami, or that irresistible crispy crust. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

Ricotta cheese: Delivers that signature creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle richness.
Cooked spinach (well-drained and finely chopped): Adds vibrant color and an earthy flavor—be sure it’s dry for the best results.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty kick that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
Breadcrumbs (plus more for rolling): Hold everything together and create a golden, crisp exterior.
Large egg: Binds the mixture and helps the balls hold their shape.
Garlic clove (minced): Adds an aromatic punch for depth of flavor.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors—don’t skip it!
Black pepper: Brings a gentle heat and balances the richness.
Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch brightens the dish with subtle warmth (especially lovely with ricotta).
Olive oil spray or drizzle: Ensures a crisp, golden finish when baking or pan-frying.

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Balls

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also pan-fry these beauties—but a lined baking sheet is a stress-free way to get that golden finish.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, finely chopped cooked spinach, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and that optional sprinkle of nutmeg. Stir everything together until you have a cohesive, sticky dough. If the mixture feels too wet, add another spoonful or two of breadcrumbs until it’s just firm enough to shape.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Scoop out heaping tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and gently roll them between your palms to form tidy balls. This recipe should yield about 16 Spinach and Ricotta Balls, depending on how generous you are with your scoops. For extra crunch, roll each ball lightly in more breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bake (or Pan-Fry) to Perfection

Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheet and give them a light mist or drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden and set. If you prefer a crunchier exterior, pan-fry them in a little olive oil over medium heat until browned on all sides.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done, let the Spinach and Ricotta Balls cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. Pair them with your favorite marinara or enjoy them on their own as little flavor-packed bites.

How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Balls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley bring a burst of color and even more flavor. If you love a little heat, try a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of good olive oil just before serving.

Side Dishes

Spinach and Ricotta Balls are wonderfully versatile. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad, a bowl of spaghetti with marinara, or some roasted vegetables. They’re a perfect match for grain bowls, antipasto platters, or even tucked into a crusty roll for a cheesy sandwich moment.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, skewer each ball with a toothpick and line them up on a platter with a side of warm dipping sauce. You can also serve them in mini muffin cups for easy, mess-free snacking. Or, go family-style: pile them high in a big bowl and let everyone dig in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled Spinach and Ricotta Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making them a great make-ahead option for snacks or lunches.

Freezing

These freeze beautifully! Arrange the cooked (and cooled) balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months—perfect for prepping ahead for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop the balls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until warmed through and a little crispy. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too, but the oven ensures they stay perfectly tender with a bit of crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out every bit of water from the frozen spinach before adding it to your mixture. Excess moisture can make the balls fall apart or turn soggy.

Are Spinach and Ricotta Balls gluten-free?

They can be! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs for the regular kind and double-check all your other ingredients. You’ll never notice the difference in taste or texture.

Can I make Spinach and Ricotta Balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge, then bake or pan-fry just before serving for maximum freshness.

Do I have to bake them, or can I fry them?

Both methods work wonderfully. Baking is fuss-free and lighter, while pan-frying gives you an extra-crispy crust. It all depends on your mood and how much time you have.

What sauces go best with these balls?

Classic marinara is always a hit, but don’t be afraid to try creamy Alfredo, pesto, or even a spicy arrabbiata. They’re also delicious with a simple squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of good olive oil.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit indulgent, Spinach and Ricotta Balls are an absolute must-try. They’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to impress at any table. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself—you deserve every delicious bite!

Spinach and Ricotta Balls Recipe

4.6 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 balls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Spinach and Ricotta Balls, perfect as a savory appetizer or snack. These golden-baked cheese balls combine creamy ricotta, nutritious spinach, and Parmesan for a flavorful Italian-inspired treat that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Vegetables

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup cooked spinach, well-drained and finely chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Binding and Seasoning

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for rolling)
1 large egg
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Cooking

Olive oil spray or drizzle (for baking or pan-frying)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, finely chopped cooked spinach, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until a sticky dough forms. If mixture feels too wet, gradually add more breadcrumbs.
Shape Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll each into a ball. Then lightly coat each ball with additional breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy outer texture.
Prepare for Baking: Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or drizzle them with olive oil to help with browning and crispness.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning each ball halfway through baking to ensure even golden color and cooking. The balls should be set and golden brown.
Alternative Cooking Method: Alternatively, pan-fry the balls in a little olive oil over medium heat until browned on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through.
Serve: Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or alongside marinara sauce over pasta for a complete meal.