If you’re craving a savory treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome, this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a luscious blend of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and a trio of cheeses that melt beautifully together. Every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, from the crispy puff pastry exterior to the soft and cheesy center. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or delightful brunch addition, this dish is guaranteed to become one of your go-to favorites in no time.

Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. From the vibrant baby spinach that adds color and nutrients, to the rich cheeses bringing creaminess and depth, every element transforms this dish into a culinary delight.

Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the garlic and spinach, it adds a smooth, fruity base to the filling.
Baby spinach: Provides a fresh, slightly earthy flavor and vibrant green color to the rolls.
Garlic cloves: Minced for a fragrant punch that enhances the savory filling.
Ricotta cheese: The star of the filling with its creamy, mild character that binds the mixture.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty undertone for complexity.
Cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp contrast and melts wonderfully inside the rolls.
Egg: Acts as a binder in the filling and also for brushing the pastry to achieve a golden finish.
Shallots or green onions: Bring a subtle onion flavor and slight crunch to the mix.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to balance and enhance the natural flavors.
Puff pastry sheet: The crispy, flaky vessel that holds all the delicious filling together.
Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle on top for a nutty accent and extra crunch.

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure your rolls bake evenly and don’t stick to the tray, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cooking the Spinach and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it just for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Immediately add the baby spinach and cook until wilted, transforming it into a glossy, tender base for the filling.

Step 3: Mixing the Cheesy Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, parmesan, cheddar, egg, and chopped shallots or green onions. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then gently fold in the wilted spinach and garlic. This rich, creamy filling is the heart of the Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe and sets the tone for all the flavor to come.

Step 4: Rolling the Pastry

Roll out your puff pastry and cut it into rectangles. For each piece, place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling along one edge. Then carefully roll the pastry tightly around the filling, creating neat little logs packed with cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Getting the Rolls Ready to Bake

Brush each roll with beaten egg to help achieve a beautiful golden crust, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if you like that extra nutty crunch. Pop the rolls in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help them firm up, which makes slicing them into bite-sized pieces easier and cleaner.

Step 6: Baking the Rolls

Bake your rolls in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is perfectly golden and crisp. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed, flaky, and sending out irresistible aromas.

Step 7: Optional Air Fryer Method

If you want to get a bit quicker and crispier, prepare the rolls as usual and place them in your air fryer basket. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, checking that they are beautifully golden and cooked through. It’s a fantastic alternative that still delivers that signature crunch of the Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe.

How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or basil on top. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of extra parmesan right before serving can add a burst of flavor and eye-catching finish.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or offer a bowl of warm tomato soup for dipping. The creamy filling and flaky pastry complement fresh, acidic sides beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cut rolls on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of marinara sauce and garlic aioli for dipping. They also make excellent finger food on a party platter, surrounded by olives, roasted nuts, and sliced cured meats for a delightful spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover spinach and ricotta rolls keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead snack or quick lunch option, ready to be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolls before baking by wrapping them individually on a tray, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or air fryer at a moderate temperature to revive the crispiness of the puff pastry without drying out the filling. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh baby spinach with frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out any excess water to prevent a soggy filling. This maintains the perfect texture for the rolls.

What kind of puff pastry works best?

Store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets are perfect for this recipe because they bake up flaky and buttery. Look for all-butter varieties for the best flavor, though standard puff pastry will also produce delicious results.

Are these rolls suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! The Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, packed with cheese and spinach without any meat ingredients. Just double-check the puff pastry ingredients if you’re strict vegetarian, avoiding any with animal-based additives.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, try substituting the ricotta and cheeses with plant-based alternatives. Many dairies offer almond or cashew-based ricotta and cheddar-style cheeses that melt well and keep the flavor profile close to the original.

How long do these rolls take to bake in the air fryer?

In the air fryer, the rolls cook at 390°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. It’s best to check them at 15 minutes for that perfect golden color and add time only if needed to ensure the puff pastry is cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe has quickly become such a joyful dish to make and share with friends and family. Its delicious filling wrapped in light, buttery pastry sparks smiles and happy bellies every time. I encourage you to give this recipe a whirl and taste the magic yourself—you won’t regret it.