Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Ricotta Puffs

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Ricotta Puffs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 puffs
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Party Cooking

We love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these Spinach Ricotta Puffs have become our go-to snack. With their flaky, golden pastry and creamy filling, they’re always a hit with guests. I enjoy making these because they are easy to prepare and pack a flavorful punch. The combination of fresh spinach and ricotta cheese creates a rich, savory taste that's perfect for snacking while cheering on your favorite team. Plus, they’re so versatile that you can serve them warm or at room temperature, which is perfect for game day!

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:29:35.156Z

When I first tried making these Spinach Ricotta Puffs, I was amazed at how simple they were to whip up and how delicious they turned out. The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients, especially the ricotta cheese and fresh spinach. I also love adding a hint of nutmeg to the filling for an unexpected depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

During my latest variation, I decided to spice things up with a touch of garlic and cream cheese, and it added an extra richness that my family couldn't get enough of. Even the kids, who are usually skeptical about spinach, devoured these bites without hesitation. Trust me, these puffs will steal the show at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love These
        Flaky pastry that melts in your mouth
Creamy spinach and ricotta filling bursting with flavor
Perfectly bite-sized for easy snacking during the game

      

Tips for Perfect Spinach Ricotta Puffs

Achieving the ideal puff pastry requires a few critical steps. When rolling out the pastry, ensure it's not too thick; a thickness of about 1/8 inch is ideal for creating a light, flaky texture. Overworking the dough can result in a tough pastry, so handle it gently. Make sure your pastry is well-thawed and slightly chilled before cutting and assembling to maintain its shape and ensure it puffs beautifully in the oven.

Another tip is to keep the filling dry to avoid a soggy bottom. Spinach can release moisture; if you find it particularly watery, consider sautéing it lightly to remove excess liquid before mixing with the other ingredients. Using a slotted spoon to scoop the filling into your pastry squares helps prevent excess moisture from causing the pastries to lose their crispiness.

Ingredient Insights

Ricotta cheese is a vital component of the filling, bringing creaminess and a subtle sweetness that complements the earthy flavors of the spinach. If you want to vary the profile, consider using goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor. Mixing in some fresh herbs like dill or basil can also enhance the filling’s flavor, creating a burst of freshness that pairs well with the richness of the cheeses.

Parmesan adds a nutty depth to the mixture, but you can substitute it with pecorino for a sharper taste. When it comes to seasoning, don’t be shy—make sure to taste the filling and adjust the salt and pepper as needed, ensuring that the flavors are well-balanced before assembly.

Ingredients

Spinach Ricotta Filling

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Puff Pastry

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into squares, roughly 3x3 inches.

Assemble the Puffs

Place a tablespoon of the spinach and ricotta filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners over the filling to create a triangle and seal the edges by pinching them together.

Bake

Transfer the puffs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden color. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown.

Serve

Once baked, let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Try adding herbs like dill or basil for a fresh twist. Serve with a light dipping sauce for even more flavor!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Spinach Ricotta Puffs are perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare the filling and assemble the puffs, then place them on a baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure they cook evenly.

If you want to freeze them instead, arrange the formed puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly puffed, golden treats.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist, consider serving these Spinach Ricotta Puffs with a variety of dipping sauces. A tangy marinara or a zesty yogurt dip pairs wonderfully and can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, a light, herby pesto drizzled on top right before serving can add a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the filling beautifully.

If you're hosting a larger gathering, these puffs can be included in a platter with other finger foods like meatballs, cheese, and even stuffed mushrooms. This not only makes for a visually appealing spread but also allows your guests to enjoy a variety of flavors throughout the game day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing it into the filling.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.

→ Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the puffs and freeze them before baking. Just bake straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other ingredients! Cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese all make delicious alternatives.