Spinach and cheese croquettes are the perfect combination of crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside. These little bites are packed with flavor and make an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something crispy and cheesy, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

These croquettes are golden and crispy on the outside, with a rich and gooey cheese center. They’re a great way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying a comforting, cheesy treat. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time!

Ingredients

You’ll need a few basic ingredients to make these delicious croquettes. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll need:

For the Croquettes:
fresh spinach, finely chopped
olive oil
garlic clove, minced
mashed potatoes
shredded mozzarella cheese
grated Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
smoked paprika (optional)
egg
all-purpose flour
For Breading:
breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
ggs
all-purpose flour

You’ll find the full list of ingredients and exact measurements below!

Preparing the Spinach Mixture

Cook and chop the spinach until it’s soft and excess water is removed. Mix it with mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings to form a thick, scoopable mixture.

Shaping the Croquettes

Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it into a log or ball shape. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 15 minutes to firm up.

Coating for Extra Crispiness

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each croquette in flour, dip it in egg, and coat it generously with breadcrumbs for that crispy finish.

Frying to Perfection

Heat oil in a pan and fry the croquettes in batches until they turn golden brown and crisp. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, so they cook evenly.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Make sure to squeeze out any excess liquid from the spinach to avoid soggy croquettes.
For an extra crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
If you want to bake instead of frying, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap out the cheese for feta or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Add finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots for extra texture.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free version.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These croquettes pair wonderfully with a simple yogurt dip or a tangy marinara sauce. They also go well with a fresh green salad or as a side dish for grilled meats.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy. If frozen, bake straight from the freezer for a few extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these croquettes ahead of time? Yes! You can shape and coat them, then refrigerate for a few hours before frying.

Can I freeze them? Absolutely! Freeze them after breading but before frying. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer or bake them.

Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess water before mixing it in.

Can I air-fry these croquettes? Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Spinach and cheese croquettes are an easy and delicious snack that everyone will love. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, they turn out crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Try this recipe and enjoy a perfect bite every time!