Make crispy, bite-sized snacks featuring spinach, salty feta, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:18 min
Total Time:38 min
Yield:About 20 bites
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:General
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
Cooking spray
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the dried spinach, crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Place the Panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
Scoop the mixture using a tablespoon and form it into small balls or flattened discs (about 1 inch wide).
Roll each bite firmly in the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well to form a thick coating.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops generously with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside and the cheese is melted inside.
Notes
Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the thawed spinach; excess water prevents crispiness.
For an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
You can substitute the cheddar with Gruyère for a different melt profile.