These Baked Potato and Spinach Croquettes are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. Made with mashed potatoes, spinach, cheese, and a golden breadcrumb crust, they are a healthy and delicious alternative to fried croquettes. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these croquettes are easy to make and packed with flavor!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 700 g (1 lb 8 oz) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling potatoes)
- 250 g (9 oz) spinach, fresh
- 50 g (2 oz) cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda), grated
- 30 g (1 oz) parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 100 g (4 oz) breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
1. Cook the Potatoes:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add diced potatoes and cook until soft and fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. Cook the Spinach:
- In a pan, add a little water and spinach.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes until wilted.
- Drain excess water and finely chop.
3. Prepare the Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, chopped spinach, grated cheese, parmesan, egg, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until well incorporated.
4. Shape and Coat:
- Take small portions of the mixture and form into oval or round croquettes.
- Roll each croquette in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly.
5. Bake the Croquettes:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
- Place the croquettes on the tray and lightly brush or spray with olive oil for crispiness.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Let cool slightly and enjoy warm!
- Serve with yogurt dip, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as an appetizer or side dish.
- Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use starchy potatoes (like russets) for a fluffier texture.
- Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to prevent soggy croquettes.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in fiber and vitamins from potatoes and spinach.
- High in calcium and protein from cheese.
- Low in fat, as they are baked instead of fried.
- Good source of antioxidants from spinach.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Contains dairy and eggs
Nutritional Facts (Per Croquette, Approx.)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 100mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to cooking time.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (360°F) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
- Healthier than fried croquettes.
- Simple ingredients and easy to make.
- Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
Conclusion
These Baked Potato and Spinach Croquettes are a delicious way to enjoy a crispy, cheesy bite while keeping it healthy and satisfying. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are easy to make and full of nutrients. Try them today and enjoy a wholesome, homemade treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw, drain, and squeeze out excess water before using. - Can I air-fry these croquettes?
Absolutely! Air-fry at 180°C (360°F) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway. - What other cheeses work well?
Gouda, cheddar, feta, or ricotta can be used instead of mozzarella. - How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping for better binding. - Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Shallow fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. - What dipping sauces pair well with these croquettes?
Try garlic aioli, sour cream dip, or spicy marinara. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add extra flavor. - Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
Yes! Use crushed nuts, almond flour, or oats as a coating. - How do I make these dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. - Can I add herbs for more flavor?
Yes! Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano work great in the mixture.