Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Ricotta Puffs
Highlighted under: Cozy Food
I absolutely love serving Spinach Ricotta Puffs that are perfect for any Super Bowl party. Flaky, buttery pastry filled with creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach makes for a delicious appetizer that everyone can enjoy. I enjoy watching my friends dive into them, commenting on their delightful texture and flavor. This recipe is simple yet decadent, making entertaining stress-free and enjoyable. Let me share this crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
When I first tried making spinach ricotta puffs, I was amazed by how easy they were to prepare. The method of using pre-made pastry dough not only saves time but also ensures a buttery, flaky finish that pairs beautifully with the rich filling. Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture elevates the flavor profile, and I guarantee your guests will ask for the secret ingredient!
After several attempts, I discovered that letting the filled puffs rest for a few minutes before baking enhances their texture. They emerge perfectly golden, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These puffs have become a staple in my football-watching gatherings, and now I'm excited to share the joy with you!
Why You Will Love These Puffs
- Flaky, buttery pastry with a rich and creamy filling
- A delightful twist on traditional party snacks
- Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd
Perfecting the Spinach Filling
The spinach and ricotta mixture is the heart of these puffs and can be tailored to your taste. When chopping fresh spinach, ensure it is dried thoroughly after washing; excess moisture can make the filling soggy. If using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing it with the ricotta and Parmesan. This will ensure a rich and satisfying filling that won’t leak during baking.
Nutmeg adds a warm, earthy note that complements the creamy ricotta beautifully. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider adding chopped herbs like basil or oregano, which can bring a fresh twist to the filling. This flexibility allows you to adapt the recipe based on what you have on hand or your guests' preferences.
Mastering Puff Pastry
Puff pastry requires some care when handling to ensure it stays cold, which is crucial for achieving that flaky texture when baked. I recommend working in a cool kitchen and returning the pastry to the fridge if it becomes too warm while you're rolling it out. Also, ensure your puff pastry is evenly rolled to prevent uneven baking.
When sealing the edges of your puffs, use a fork to crimp the sides, which not only helps to keep the filling contained but also adds an appealing decorative touch. A well-sealed puff will puff up nicely without any filling leaking out, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
For the Puffs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 package (1 lb) puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to preheat your oven before starting the mixing.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Roll Out the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry. Cut into squares approximately 4 inches by 4 inches.
Fill the Pastry Squares
Place a tablespoon of the spinach mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold over the pastry to create triangles or to seal them in circles.
Prepare for Baking
Brush the tops of the puffs with beaten egg for a golden finish. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Allow the puffs to cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the filling. They enhance the overall taste and give a fresh taste to these delightful puffs.
Make-Ahead Tips
These Spinach Ricotta Puffs can be assembled in advance, making them a fantastic option for busy party days. Once filled and shaped, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours prior to baking. This is a great way to streamline your party prep, allowing you to bake them fresh right before serving.
If you want to prepare them even further ahead, consider freezing the unbaked puffs. Arrange the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from the freezer; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These puffs pair beautifully with a variety of dips, adding an extra layer of flavor to your Super Bowl spread. Consider serving them with a homemade marinara sauce or a zesty tzatziki for dipping. A squirt of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors and make them even more irresistible.
For an elegant touch, you can sprinkle a bit of extra grated Parmesan on top just before baking, allowing it to melt and form a crispy crust. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a gorgeous golden hue to the puffs that will make them the star of your party.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before mixing it with other ingredients.
→ Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them and then freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with these puffs?
These puffs pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like marinara, garlic aioli, or even a tangy yogurt sauce.
→ What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute with cottage cheese or cream cheese, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Ricotta Puffs
I absolutely love serving Spinach Ricotta Puffs that are perfect for any Super Bowl party. Flaky, buttery pastry filled with creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach makes for a delicious appetizer that everyone can enjoy. I enjoy watching my friends dive into them, commenting on their delightful texture and flavor. This recipe is simple yet decadent, making entertaining stress-free and enjoyable. Let me share this crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Created by: Octavia Bellamy
Recipe Type: Cozy Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 puffs
What You'll Need
For the Puffs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 package (1 lb) puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry. Cut into squares approximately 4 inches by 4 inches.
Place a tablespoon of the spinach mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold over the pastry to create triangles or to seal them in circles.
Brush the tops of the puffs with beaten egg for a golden finish. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the filling. They enhance the overall taste and give a fresh taste to these delightful puffs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g