Crispy Spinach Artichoke Bites
These delightful Crispy Spinach Artichoke Bites are the perfect blend of creamy spinach and artichoke dip encased in a golden, crunchy shell. Inspired by our recent visit to T.G.I. Fridays, where we savored their dreamy dip, we decided to take it up a notch by transforming it into bite-sized, deep-fried goodness. Perfect as a party appetizer or a cozy home snack, each ball bursts with rich flavors and textures. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable treat that is quick and easy to make.
18
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Artichoke hearts
3 (fresh, chopped)
Garlic cloves
3 (shredded or pressed)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Chopped spinach
8 ounces (squeeze as much water out as you can)
Mayonnaise
1/4 cup (none)
Sour cream
1/4 cup (none)
Mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (shredded)
Grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (none)
Flour
1 cup (for first coating)
Large eggs
3 (beaten for second coating)
Panko breadcrumbs
as needed (for final coating)
Instructions
1
Prepare the filling by combining chopped artichoke hearts, shredded garlic, black pepper, chopped spinach (ensuring all water is squeezed out), mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella, and grated parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined, adjusting consistency with extra parmesan if needed.
2
Preheat your Fry Daddy or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
3
Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
4
Transfer the sheet to the freezer for about 20-30 minutes to firm up the balls, making them easier to handle.
5
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs.
6
Coat each ball in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
7
Carefully drop the coated balls into the hot oil, frying in small batches for about 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your crispy spinach and artichoke bites!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Spinach Artichoke Bites?
They are a delightful blend of creamy spinach and artichoke dip encased in a golden, crunchy shell, served as bite-sized, deep-fried appetizers.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by the spinach and artichoke dip served at T.G.I. Fridays.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 18 servings.
What are the main ingredients in the filling?
The filling includes artichoke hearts, garlic, black pepper, chopped spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
How many fresh artichoke hearts are needed?
You will need 3 fresh, chopped artichoke hearts for this recipe.
How should the spinach be prepared?
Use 8 ounces of chopped spinach and ensure you squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing.
What kind of cheese is used in the spinach artichoke bites?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 3 garlic cloves, which should be shredded or pressed.
What is the recommended frying temperature?
You should preheat your deep fryer or Fry Daddy to 350°F (175°C).
How long do you need to fry the bites?
Fry the coated balls in small batches for about 5 to 6 minutes.
Why do the balls need to go in the freezer?
Freezing the shaped mixture for 20-30 minutes helps firm up the balls, making them easier to handle during the coating process.
How large should each spinach artichoke bite be?
The mixture should be shaped into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
What are the three steps for coating the bites?
The coating process involves three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs.
What type of breadcrumbs are used for the golden shell?
Panko breadcrumbs are used for the final coating to achieve a crispy texture.
How many eggs are needed for the coating process?
You will need 3 large eggs, beaten, for the second stage of the coating.
What should I do if the filling mixture is too wet?
You can adjust the consistency by adding extra parmesan cheese to the mixture.
What is the first coating layer?
The first layer of coating is flour; ensure you shake off any excess before moving to the egg wash.
How do I know when the bites are finished cooking?
The bites are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
What is the best way to remove the bites from the oil?
Carefully remove the fried bites with a slotted spoon to allow oil to drain.
Should the bites be drained before serving?
Yes, drain the fried bites on paper towels after removing them from the fryer.
What is the time category for this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as 'Under 30 Minutes'.
What are the tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include appetizer, deep fried, spinach, artichoke, party food, crowd-pleaser, recipe, and snack.
How much mayonnaise is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of mayonnaise.
How much sour cream is used in the filling?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of sour cream.
Can I use a Fry Daddy for this recipe?
Yes, a Fry Daddy is specifically mentioned as a suitable tool for deep frying these bites.
How much flour is needed for the coating?
You will need 1 cup of flour for the first coating layer.
Is black pepper included in the seasoning?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper is added to the filling mixture.
How should these bites be served?
They should be served hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is tagged as both 'party food' and a 'crowd-pleaser,' making it perfect for gatherings.
How many total ingredients are listed in the recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total used to make these bites.