Spinach and cheese croquettes are a delightful snack or appetizer that combine creamy, cheesy goodness with the earthy flavor of spinach. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these croquettes are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty treat. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make spinach and cheese croquettes:
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (120g) mashed potatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make spinach and cheese croquettes:
- Prepare the spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. Let it cool and squeeze out any excess water.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, mashed potatoes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the croquettes: Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into oval or cylindrical croquettes. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Coat the croquettes: Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs into separate shallow bowls. Roll each croquette in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and coat it with breadcrumbs. Repeat for all croquettes.
- Chill the croquettes: Place the coated croquettes on a plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Fry the croquettes: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the croquettes warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad.
FAQs
Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Thaw the frozen spinach, squeeze out excess water, and use it in the recipe.
Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and coat the croquettes in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
What dipping sauce goes well with these croquettes?
Spinach and cheese croquettes pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a spicy mayo dip.
Notes and More
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the filling.
- Customize the recipe by using other cheeses like cheddar or feta.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
These spinach and cheese croquettes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Serve them hot and watch them disappear in no time! Happy cooking!
