Spinach and Ricotta Meatballs

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Quick, tender, and lightly golden, these Spinach and Ricotta Meatballs are the perfect go-to for a speedy lunch or a simple dinner. Ready in about 30 minutes, they bring fresh greens and creamy ricotta together for a versatile vegetarian bite that’s great year-round. Serve them as an appetizer, toss with pasta, or simmer in tomato sauce for a comforting main.

Why This Recipe Works

Speed: Minimal prep and a quick bake about 20–25 minutes in the oven.
Texture: Ricotta keeps the meatballs creamy inside while breadcrumbs give a light crust.
Freshness: Blanched spinach adds color, nutrients, and a bright flavor without sogginess.

Ingredients

A short roundup of what you need to make these Spinach and Ricotta Meatballs simple pantry staples, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese base.

Fresh spinach: 250 g
Garlic (whole): 1 clove
Extra virgin olive oil: 1 Tbsp
Ricotta cheese: 250 g
Grana Padano cheese (or Parmigiano Reggiano): 50 g
Breadcrumbs (divided): 100 g
Egg: 1
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear, fast steps to make baked spinach ricotta meatballs that stay moist and hold their shape.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then drain and squeeze out excess water. Chop finely.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and gently sauté the whole garlic clove until fragrant, then remove garlic.
In a large bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta, Grana Padano, 50 g of breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs and roll them lightly in the remaining breadcrumbs.
Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and firm.
Serve warm as an appetizer, with pasta, or in a tomato sauce for a main dish.

Tips & Tricks

Squeeze the spinach well excess water will make the mixture too loose.
If the mixture feels sticky, chill 10 minutes before shaping to firm up.
Use a small cookie scoop for uniform meatballs and even baking.

Ingredient Swaps

Cheese: Swap Grana Padano with Parmigiano Reggiano if preferred.
Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF version.
Egg substitute: For an egg-free binder, try a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flax + 3 Tbsp water).

Healthy Option

Bake instead of frying to cut oil.
Use whole-grain breadcrumbs for extra fiber and nutrients.

Pairings & Serving Suggestions

Toss these vegetarian meatballs with your favorite pasta and a light tomato sauce.
Serve as an appetizer with a lemon-garlic yogurt dip or a simple marinara.
For dessert after this savory course, try a rich ricotta-based sweet like Chocolate Ricotta Cake to keep the ricotta theme going.

Nutrition & Health Benefits

Spinach adds iron, vitamin K, and folate.
Ricotta provides a good source of protein and calcium.
Baking reduces added fat compared to frying.

Hosting & Presentation Tips

Arrange meatballs on a warmed platter, sprinkle with extra grated Grana Padano, and add lemon wedges or microgreens for color. Serve alongside toothpicks for an easy party appetizer.

Personal Closing Thought + Call-to-Action

These Spinach and Ricotta Meatballs are proof that fast food can be fresh and satisfying. Try a batch tonight and share a photo — we love seeing quick recipes come to life!

FAQ

What is the preparation time for this recipe?

The preparation time usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your experience and kitchen equipment.

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Yes, ingredient substitutions are possible depending on dietary restrictions or availability, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk.

Is this recipe suitable for specific diets?

This recipe can be adapted to various diets including vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free with some ingredient modifications.

How should leftovers be stored?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 to 3 days for best freshness.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, many of the steps can be done ahead of time to make meal prep easier and save time during busy days.

Conclusion

For more variations and inspiration on spinach ricotta bites, check this classic Spinach Ricotta Meatballs – Vegetarian Meatball Recipe, and if you want another baked take, see this Baked Spinach and Ricotta Meatballs post for different serving ideas.