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: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Celebration Cooking

I absolutely love serving these Spinach Ricotta Puffs during the Super Bowl! They’re always a hit with friends and family, and I can’t help but feel a sense of pride when I bring them out as an appetizer. These delightful bites are simple to prepare and deliver a burst of flavor that complements any game day spread. With the rich combination of creamy ricotta and nutritious spinach, they’re as delicious as they are appealing. Plus, they’re easy to make in advance, which makes party planning a breeze!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:01:34.897Z

I’ve experimented with different fillings for party puffs over the years, but spinach and ricotta is by far my favorite. The mixture is so creamy and satisfying; it just melts in your mouth. I often add a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the flavors, creating a comforting yet sophisticated taste. It’s those little details that elevate a simple recipe into something memorable!

Last Super Bowl, I assembled these puffs ahead of time and kept them in the fridge until it was game time. The result was golden, flaky bites that were crispy on the outside and luscious on the inside. I highly recommend this strategy when hosting to ease your stress and maximize flavor at the same time!

Why You'll Love These Spinach Ricotta Puffs
Flaky pastry that encases a creamy filling
Healthy spinach hidden in a tasty snack
Easy to prepare ahead of time, perfect for parties

Mastering Puff Pastry

When working with puff pastry, it's essential to keep it cold until ready to use. This helps the layers remain distinct and flaky when baked. If your kitchen is warm, consider placing the rolled-out pastry in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. Cut the pastry into 3-inch squares; a pizza cutter can make this process quick and easy. Ensure the edges are clean for a better seal when you fold them, as this will help prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

If you want to create an even flakier texture, you can roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and fold it into thirds before cutting. This technique enhances the layers and results in a puffier final product. Remember to only roll it out on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking, and to use a sharp knife to cut the squares to maintain the integrity of the edges for a uniform seal.

Filling Variations

While the classic filling of ricotta and spinach is delightful, feel free to experiment with different combinations. Adding chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the flavor profile. For a spicier kick, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, swap ricotta for a creamy tofu blend or a plant-based cream cheese alternative, ensuring you balance the texture and flavor accordingly.

Fresh herbs like basil or dill can add a fresh touch to the filling. Just a tablespoon of finely chopped herb mixed in can transform the flavor without overwhelming the original concept. For a richer taste, using a mixture of cheeses like feta or goat cheese with ricotta will provide a different tang and depth to the filling, making these puffs even more exciting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Spinach Ricotta Puffs can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. To freeze, arrange the unbaked puffs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This method ensures you have delicious, hot appetizers ready for your gatherings at a moment's notice.

If you have any puffs left over post-party, store them in an airtight container. To reheat, place the puffs on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning, baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the pastry while ensuring the filling warms evenly. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to a chewy exterior.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Puff Pastry:

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

For the Filling:

1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best result!

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to create delicious Spinach Ricotta Puffs:

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 3-inch squares.

Fill and Shape the Puffs

Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners up to meet at the center and pinch to seal.

Bake the Puffs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sealed puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy your Super Bowl celebration!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the filling! These puffs pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving options.

Serving Suggestions

These Spinach Ricotta Puffs are versatile and can be served as part of a platter filled with various dips, such as marinara, pesto, or a tangy yogurt sauce. The contrasting flavors will enhance the overall experience and encourage guests to try different combinations. I often add some fresh vegetable sticks, which provide a nice crunch along with the puffs.

For a festive touch at your Super Bowl party, consider arranging the puffs on a tiered serving tray with garnishes like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color. The visual appeal will draw attention, making it a centerpiece at your appetizer table. Pair them with refreshing beverages like sparkling water or light beers to balance the richness of the cheese.

Recommended Tools

Using a silpat or parchment paper on the baking sheet can help prevent sticking, allowing for an easy transfer of the baked puffs. If you haven't invested in a pastry brush yet, now's a great time; it's invaluable for applying an egg wash, ensuring that your puffs have a beautiful, golden sheen. A good-quality pizza cutter is also handy for cutting the pastry into squares quickly and accurately.

Another great tool for this recipe is a silicone spatula, which helps in mixing the filling without overworking the cheese. This will keep the texture light and creamy. Additionally, a medium-sized mixing bowl is perfect for combining the filling ingredients and allows ample space for blending without making a mess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your puffs are leaking filling during baking, it’s often due to not sealing the corners tightly. When pinching them closed, ensure they are fully pressed together; you can also use a fork to create a decorative and tighter seal. If your pastry isn't puffing up as expected, it may be due to the dough being too warm—pop them back into the fridge for a few minutes before baking.

Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary significantly. If they seem to be browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly or rotate the baking sheet. Ideally, they should bake until the tops are golden brown and flaky, ensuring that they reach the perfect texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these puffs in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the baking stage and store them in the fridge for a day or freeze them for up to a month.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be great alternatives if you're looking for a change in flavor or texture.

→ How do I know when they are done?

The puffs should be golden brown and puffed up when ready. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.

→ Can I add meat or other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or other veggies like mushrooms can be excellent additions.