Crispy Spinach and Cheese Croquettes Recipe for Tasty Bites

These delectable spinach and cheese croquettes combine crispy textures with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that dance on your palate.

Crisp golden exteriors crackle with each delightful bite, revealing soft, creamy interiors.

Perfectly seasoned ingredients create a magical blend of comfort and sophistication.

Incredibly simple to prepare, these little morsels bring restaurant-quality excitement to home cooking.

Small enough to serve as appetizers yet satisfying enough to enjoy as a light meal, croquettes offer versatile dining options.

Professional chefs and home cooks alike appreciate their elegant simplicity.

You’ll find these irresistible bites become an instant favorite at any gathering.

Let’s transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary adventure!

Spinach Croquettes That Are Crispy, Creamy, and Light

• Whip Up Quick Comfort: These croquettes transform ordinary ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Boost Nutrition Effortlessly: Packed with spinach and protein-rich cheese, these crispy bites offer a delicious way to sneak extra vegetables into family meals.
• Perfect Party Pleaser: Versatile enough for appetizers, game day snacks, or a fun side dish that impresses guests without requiring complicated cooking skills.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd-Winner: The creamy interior and crunchy exterior make these croquettes irresistible for both children and adults, turning mealtime into a delightful experience.

Spinach and Cheese Croquettes Cooking Picks

• Spinach, Cheese: Fresh green spinach provides earthy flavor and nutrients, while cheese adds creamy richness and binding qualities.
• Eggs, Breadcrumbs: Eggs help hold the mixture together and create structure, while breadcrumbs provide crispy coating and absorb moisture.

• Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper: Minced garlic brings deep flavor base, salt enhances overall taste, and black pepper adds subtle warmth.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds subtle fruity note and helps prevent sticking during cooking.

Spinach Croquettes Crispy & Creamy Cooking Steps

Step 1: Sauté Aromatic Garlic and Spinach

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and sizzle for about 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with a delightful aroma.

Gently add chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, watching the leaves transform from bright green to a soft, wilted texture.

Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Creamy Filling Ingredients

• Softened cream cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped spinach mixture
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Nutmeg

Mix all ingredients until they form a smooth, uniform filling that’s packed with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Breading Station

• First dish: All-purpose flour
• Second dish: Beaten eggs
• Third dish: Breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan

Step 4: Shape Delectable Croquettes

Using clean hands, form the spinach and cheese mixture into small oval or cylindrical shapes.

Each croquette should be compact and hold together well.

Step 5: Coat and Bread Croquettes

Roll each croquette first in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.

Ensure an even, complete coating for maximum crispiness.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F.

Carefully place breaded croquettes into the hot oil and fry until they turn a gorgeous golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.

Rotate them gently to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Remove croquettes with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Let them rest for a minute to achieve the perfect crispy exterior and creamy interior.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy

Transfer croquettes to a serving plate.

Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or serve with a zesty dipping sauce like aioli or marinara.

Enjoy while hot and crispy!

Crispy Croquette Tips for Spinach and Cheese

• Squeeze out excess moisture from cooked spinach to prevent soggy croquettes and ensure a crispy exterior.
• Select a melting cheese like mozzarella or gruyère for maximum creaminess and rich flavor in your croquettes.
• Refrigerate the spinach and cheese mixture for 30 minutes to help the croquettes hold their shape during breading and frying.
• Coat croquettes in panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier golden-brown exterior.
• For a lower-fat version, bake the croquettes at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.

Spinach Cheese Croquettes Reheat Guide

• Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel between layers to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm for 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through, turning halfway for even heating.
• Wrap individual croquettes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil. Cook croquettes for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp, restoring their original crunch.

Sides and Sauces for Spinach Croquettes

• Pair Zesty White Wine: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, rich texture of the croquettes. Its bright acidity cuts through the cheesy goodness and refreshes the palate.
• Serve with Tangy Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the crispy, hearty croquettes. The peppery greens and citrus dressing provide a perfect contrast to the creamy spinach filling.
• Match with Cool Dipping Sauce: Whip up a garlic-herb yogurt sauce or tzatziki to enhance the croquettes' flavor. The cool, tangy condiment adds a refreshing element that elevates the entire dish and provides a delightful dipping experience.
• Complement with Roasted Vegetables: Prepare a side of roasted bell peppers or Mediterranean-style vegetables. Their caramelized edges and subtle sweetness will beautifully highlight the savory spinach and cheese croquettes.

Spinach and Cheese Croquettes Crispy Styles

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly option that maintains crispy texture.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based cream cheese or silken tofu for binding. Use aquafaba instead of eggs for coating.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute flour and breadcrumbs with ground pork rinds or crushed keto-friendly nuts like almonds for a protein-packed, lower-carbohydrate version.
• Keto Adaptation: Use cream cheese and mozzarella as primary cheese, remove breadcrumbs, and replace flour with almond flour to create a high-fat, low-carb croquette suitable for ketogenic diets.

FAQs

• Are these croquettes suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, spinach and cheese croquettes are completely vegetarian-friendly, making them a great option for those avoiding meat.

• What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Mozzarella or parmesan cheese are excellent choices, providing a creamy texture and rich, tangy flavor that complements the spinach perfectly.

• Can I prepare the croquettes in advance?

Absolutely! You can form the croquettes ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying, which makes them ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

• How do I ensure the croquettes are crispy on the outside?

Coat the formed croquettes in breadcrumbs and ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior.

Spinach and Cheese Croquettes Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy Spinach and Cheese Croquettes deliver Mediterranean comfort on a plate, blending golden-brown exteriors with luxurious inner textures. Spanish-inspired appetizers promise delightful flavor combinations that will transport you to sunny coastal kitchens with each irresistible bite.

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Ingredients

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Spinach and Cheese Croquettes

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (473 ml) fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 cup (240 ml) mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Coating Ingredients:

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 ml) breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

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Instructions

1. Infuse the olive oil with minced garlic, releasing its aromatic essence in a medium-heated pan for approximately 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with a tantalizing fragrance.
2. Incorporate the chopped spinach, gently wilting the leaves for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their vibrant green color.
3. Remove the spinach mixture from heat and permit it to cool momentarily, ensuring the temperature reduces to prevent melting cheese prematurely.
4. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper, blending the ingredients until thoroughly integrated.
5. Shape the verdant mixture into uniform, palm-sized oval croquettes, ensuring consistent size for even cooking.
6. Prepare a breading station with separate bowls of flour, whisked eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
7. Delicately roll each croquette first in flour, then immerse in beaten egg, and finally coat comprehensively with breadcrumbs, creating a crisp protective layer.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F, maintaining a consistent temperature for optimal frying.
9. Carefully lower the breaded croquettes into the hot oil, frying until they transform into a golden-brown, crispy exterior, approximately 3-4 minutes.
10. Extract the croquettes using a slotted spoon, allowing excess oil to drain on paper towels, which will help maintain their delightful crunch.
11. Serve immediately, accompanied by a zesty marinara or herb-infused aioli for an elevated culinary experience.

Notes

• Choose fresh, vibrant spinach leaves for maximum flavor and nutrition, avoiding wilted or discolored greens.
• Squeeze out excess moisture from cooked spinach to prevent soggy croquettes and ensure a crispy exterior.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like feta, gouda, or parmesan to customize the taste profile and add complexity.
• Gluten-free option: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for celiac-friendly croquettes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg