Spinach & Cheese Patties
Description
Spinach & Cheese Patties are an easy, cheesy, savoury recipe made with fresh spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, almond flour or breadcrumbs, garlic, and Italian seasoning. The mixture is shaped into small patties and cooked until golden on the outside while remaining tender, cheesy, and flavourful inside.
These patties are a wonderful way to turn fresh spinach into something the whole family can enjoy. The mozzarella gives them a delicious melty texture, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavour. Garlic and Italian seasoning bring everything together without requiring a long list of ingredients.
They make an excellent breakfast, lunch, snack, side dish, or light dinner. You can serve them alongside eggs in the morning, with a fresh salad for lunch, or as a vegetable side with grilled chicken or fish.
Using almond flour keeps the recipe lower in carbohydrates and naturally gluten-free when all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Breadcrumbs can be used instead if you prefer a more traditional texture.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup almond flour or breadcrumbs
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Olive oil spray
Optional Serving Ideas
Plain Greek yoghurt
Garlic yoghurt sauce
Marinara sauce
Tzatziki
Sour cream
Fresh lemon wedges
Chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the spinach.
Start by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly and removing any tough stems.
Chop the spinach into small pieces. Smaller pieces distribute more evenly throughout the patties and make the mixture easier to shape.
If your spinach is particularly wet after washing, gently pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can make the patties difficult to hold together.
2. Prepare the garlic.
Mince the two garlic cloves finely.
Fresh garlic provides the best flavour, but if necessary, you can substitute approximately 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
3. Combine the ingredients.
Add the chopped spinach to a large mixing bowl.
Add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, almond flour or breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Mix everything thoroughly with a spoon or clean hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed and a thick, cohesive mixture forms.
The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape into patties.
4. Check the consistency
Before shaping the patties, check the mixture.
If it feels excessively wet or loose, add another tablespoon of almond flour or breadcrumbs. Mix and allow it to sit for a minute or two.
If the mixture seems too dry, add a small amount of beaten egg or a teaspoon of olive oil.
The exact consistency can vary depending on the moisture in the spinach and the type of cheese used.
5. Shape the patties.
Divide the mixture into approximately 8 equal portions.
Using your hands, shape each portion into a small round patty.
Gently flatten each patty to approximately 1/2-inch thick.
Try not to make them too thick because the outside can brown before the centre is fully cooked.
Place the formed patties on a plate or parchment-lined tray while you prepare the skillet.
6. Heat the skillet.
Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Lightly coat the surface with olive oil spray.
Allow the pan to heat for about 1 minute.
Avoid using extremely high heat. The cheese can brown too quickly while the centre remains soft.
7. Cook the patties.
Carefully place the spinach patties into the skillet, leaving a little space between each one.
Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to cook them in batches.
Cook the patties for approximately 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, or until the bottom is golden brown and firm.
Carefully flip each patty with a spatula.
Cook the second side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
The patties should be golden on both sides and cooked through in the centre.
8. Finish cooking
If the patties are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
You want the cheese to become melted and lightly golden without burning.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels if desired.
Allow them to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
9. Serve
Serve the patties warm with your favourite dipping sauce.
They are delicious with marinara sauce, Greek yoghurt, tzatziki, garlic yoghurt sauce, or a simple squeeze of fresh lemon.
For a complete meal, serve them with a large green salad, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or baked fish.
Air Fryer Method
These patties can also be prepared in an air fryer.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
Arrange the patties in a single layer, leaving space between them.
Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
Air fry for approximately 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
Cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the patties and the air fryer model.
They should be golden and firm when finished.
Oven Method
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with olive oil.
Bake for approximately 18 to 22 minutes, carefully flipping them halfway through.
For additional browning, you can place them under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully so the cheese does not burn.
Servings
Makes approximately 8 spinach and cheese patties.
Serving size: 2 patties
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25–30 minutes
Recipe Notes
Fresh spinach works particularly well because it has a mild flavour and cooks quickly.
If you use frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the mixture.
The amount of moisture in the spinach is one of the most important factors affecting the texture of the patties.
Mozzarella creates a softer, stretchy texture, while Parmesan helps provide structure and a richer savoury flavour.
Almond flour gives the patties a slightly nutty flavour and works well for a lower-carbohydrate version. Breadcrumbs create a slightly more traditional, firm texture.
Do not overmix the ingredients. Mix just until everything is evenly combined.
Letting the mixture rest for 5 minutes before shaping can help the almond flour or breadcrumbs absorb some moisture.
Tips for Perfect Spinach & Cheese Patties
Remove excess moisture: If the spinach is wet, the patties may fall apart. Pat fresh spinach dry and squeeze frozen spinach extremely well.
Use freshly shredded mozzarella: Freshly shredded cheese usually melts more smoothly than some pre-shredded varieties.
Don’t make the patties too thick: About 1/2 inch thick allows them to cook evenly.
Use medium heat: Medium heat gives the cheese time to melt while allowing the outside to become golden.
Flip carefully: Let the first side develop a firm crust before flipping.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook in batches if necessary.
Chill the mixture if needed: If your mixture feels difficult to shape, refrigerate it for 15 to 20 minutes before forming the patties.
Add herbs: fresh parsley, basil, dill, or chives can add extra flavour.
Add heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne works beautifully with the cheese and spinach.
Add onion: finely minced onion or green onion can add another layer of flavour.
Variations
Spinach Feta Patties
Replace part of the mozzarella with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy Mediterranean-inspired version.
Spinach Cheddar Patties
Replace some or all of the mozzarella with shredded cheddar for a sharper flavour.
Garlic Herb Patties
Increase the garlic slightly and add fresh parsley, basil, or oregano.
Spicy Spinach Patties
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Mediterranean Spinach Patties
Add crumbled feta, chopped parsley, oregano, and a little lemon zest.
Mushroom Spinach Patties
Finely chop mushrooms, sauté them until their moisture evaporates, cool them, and mix them into the patty mixture.
Protein-Rich Patties
Serve the patties with Greek yoghurt or cottage cheese on the side for additional protein.
Storage
Allow cooked patties to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For best results, place parchment paper between layers if stacking the patties.
Reheating
Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium-low heat for several minutes on each side.
You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
Microwaving works for convenience, but the patties may become softer.
Freezing
Spinach & Cheese Patties can be frozen.
Allow cooked patties to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be stored frozen for approximately 2 months for best quality.
Reheat directly from frozen in an air fryer or oven until heated through.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutrition per serving of 2 patties, assuming 4 servings and using almond flour:
Calories: 300–330
Protein: 18–20 g
Carbohydrates: 7–9 g
Dietary Fibre: 2–3 g
Net Carbohydrates: 5–7 g
Fat: 22–25 g
Saturated Fat: 8–10 g
Cholesterol: 120–140 mg
Sodium: 600–750 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on the exact cheese, almond flour or breadcrumbs, egg size, and amount of olive oil spray used.
Using breadcrumbs instead of almond flour will change the carbohydrate and calorie values.
Benefits of Spinach & Cheese Patties
Provides protein: Eggs, mozzarella, and Parmesan contribute protein, which helps make the patties satisfying.
Contains leafy greens: Spinach provides vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre.
Provides calcium: Mozzarella and Parmesan are sources of calcium, an important mineral for bones and normal muscle function.
Easy way to eat more vegetables: The spinach is incorporated into a flavourful cheesy patty, making vegetables more appealing to both children and adults.
Versatile meal option: These patties can be served for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, or as a side dish.
Quick preparation: The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and can be prepared relatively quickly.
Lower-carbohydrate option: When almond flour is used instead of breadcrumbs, the recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Why are my patties falling apart?
The most common reason is excess moisture. Make sure the spinach is well drained. You can also add another tablespoon or two of almond flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture.
Can I make these without almond flour?
Yes. Breadcrumbs are an easy substitute. You can also experiment with oat flour or another suitable dry binder.
Can I use baby spinach?
Absolutely. Baby spinach is tender and works very well. Simply chop it before adding it to the mixture.
Can I use other cheese?
Yes. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, feta, provolone, or a combination of cheeses can be used.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the mixture several hours ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to shape and cook the patties.
Can I bake instead of fry them?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are these patties gluten-free?
They can be. Use almond flour and make sure your other ingredients, including seasonings and cheese, meet your gluten-free requirements.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes. The listed ingredients are vegetarian, although you should check the labels of packaged ingredients if you have specific dietary requirements.
How can I make the patties crispier?
Make them slightly thinner, use a well-heated skillet, avoid overcrowding the pan, and cook them until both sides develop a golden crust.
What sauce goes best with spinach patties?
Marinara, tzatziki, garlic yoghurt sauce, Greek yoghurt, or sour cream are all delicious choices.
Can I add chicken?
Yes. Finely chopped cooked chicken can be added for a heartier version. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before mixing it into the patties.
Can children eat these patties?
They can be a convenient way to serve spinach to children. Adjust the garlic, seasoning, and salt according to taste.
What should I serve with spinach patties?
Try them with a tomato-cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, scrambled eggs, grilled chicken, baked fish, or a bowl of soup.
Final Thoughts
Spinach & Cheese Patties are a simple, flavourful way to transform fresh spinach and everyday ingredients into a satisfying dish. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a delicious cheesy centre, while garlic and Italian seasoning add plenty of flavour.
They are easy enough for a quick weekday meal but versatile enough to serve as part of breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a party appetiser. Choose almond flour for a lower-carbohydrate version or breadcrumbs when you prefer a more classic patty texture.
For the best results, focus on removing excess moisture from the spinach, avoid making the patties too thick, and cook them over medium heat until beautifully golden on both sides.