Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Ricotta Puffs

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Ricotta Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 puffs
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Celebration Seasonal Food Collection

Every Super Bowl party needs a standout snack, and these Spinach Ricotta Puffs are it! I’ve perfected this recipe over the years, and it never fails to impress my guests. The flaky pastry encases a creamy filling that balances the freshness of spinach with the rich flavor of ricotta. Trust me, the crowd will be gathering around the snack table for more! Easy to make in just 30 minutes, they are the perfect bite-sized treat to accompany your favorite football party.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:16:50.880Z

When I first started making these Spinach Ricotta Puffs, I couldn’t believe how quickly they disappeared. After some trial and error, I discovered that a mix of fresh and thawed spinach really amps up the flavor. Using a high-quality ricotta cheese is essential too; it brings a creaminess that balances perfectly with the crispy pastry.

One of my favorite tips is to pre-bake the puff pastry for a few minutes before filling them. This little trick helps to achieve that golden-brown crust that everyone loves while ensuring the filling remains warm and satisfying. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly flaky pastry that melts in your mouth
Rich and creamy filling that’s bursting with flavor
Quick and easy to make for any gathering

      

Perfecting the Filling

When it comes to the creamy filling for these Spinach Ricotta Puffs, balance is key. The ricotta cheese is essential not only for its richness but also for its ability to meld beautifully with the other ingredients. Adding both fresh and frozen spinach provides layers of flavor and texture, with the fresh offering a bright, earthy bite and the frozen contributing to a creamier consistency. Don’t skip draining the frozen spinach thoroughly; excess moisture can lead to soggy puffs.

Incorporating grated Parmesan cheese adds that extra depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. If you're looking for a more pronounced flavor, consider substituting Romano cheese for a sharper taste. With every mix, ensure the ingredients are well-combined for an even distribution of flavors; this makes a huge difference in each bite.

Rolling and Shaping Tips

Rolling the puff pastry to the right thickness is crucial for the desired flakiness and structure. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8-inch, which allows the pastry to puff up beautifully without being too dense. If you're frustrated with the dough tearing, let it rest a few minutes for better elasticity. Also, a light dusting of flour on your work surface and rolling pin will prevent sticking and ensure smooth rolling.

When it’s time to fill and fold the pastry, make sure to leave enough space around the edges for sealing. A tablespoon of filling is usually the perfect amount to avoid overflow. To secure the edges, using a fork to crimp them is not only effective but gives a nice decorative touch while ensuring no filling escapes during baking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry, thawed
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

Make sure to prepare everything before you start assembling the puffs!

Instructions

Let's get cooking!

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach, thawed frozen spinach, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Roll Out the Pastry

On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to about 1/8-inch thick. Cut the pastry into squares, approximately 4x4 inches.

Fill the Pastry

Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the edges over and pinch them to seal, creating a triangle or pocket shape.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filled puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush the tops with the egg yolk for a golden color.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Spinach Ricotta Puffs!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add some freshly grated nutmeg to the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a twist on the classic recipe.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Ricotta Puffs can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for entertaining. After assembling the puffs, you can refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. If you're preparing them further in advance, consider freezing the assembled puffs. Just ensure they are laid out on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid before transferring to an airtight container. They can be baked directly from frozen, though you may need to add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time.

Leftover puffs, if you have any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. This method revives their flaky texture for a delightful snack.

Serving Suggestions

These puffs make fantastic finger food at any gathering, but they can also shine as part of a larger spread. Pair them with a tangy marinara or a homemade garlic aioli for dipping; the flavors complement the richness of the ricotta perfectly. If you're aiming for a healthy twist, serve them with a fresh garden salad or a light yogurt-based dip to enhance the freshness.

For a fun twist, consider experimenting with the filling. Swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard, and try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra kick of flavor. Each variation allows you to customize the puffs based on seasonal ingredients or guests' preferences, keeping things exciting at your Super Bowl party.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these puffs?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked puffs for up to a month. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve these puffs with?

These puffs pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, yogurt dip, or a spicy salsa for a flavor twist.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

→ Are there any variations for this recipe?

Definitely! You can add cooked mushrooms, artichokes, or even different herbs to change the flavor profile according to your preference.