Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Cheese Crisps
These crispy, cheesy Mediterranean bites feature golden baked cheese shells filled with creamy feta, spinach, herbs, and garlic. They’re naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Crisps
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
For the Filling
- 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ¾ cup (150 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 oz (60 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon zest
- Extra crumbled feta
- Cracked black pepper
Equipment
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine:
- Spinach
- Feta
- Cream cheese
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Basil
- Red pepper flakes
- Black pepper
- Parsley
Mix until creamy and evenly combined.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Crisps
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the mozzarella-Parmesan mixture onto the baking sheet.
- Flatten each into a 3½–4 inch circle.
- Leave about 2 inches between each mound.
Bake for 6–8 minutes, until melted and the edges are deep golden brown.
Step 4: Shape
Remove from the oven.
While still warm and flexible:
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of spinach-feta filling into the center.
- Fold each crisp gently into a taco or cup shape.
- Let cool for 3–5 minutes until firm and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with:
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon zest
- Extra feta
- Fresh cracked pepper
Serve warm.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Total Time
23 minutes
Servings
Makes 12 cheese crisps
Nutrition (Per Crisp – Approximate)
- Calories: 105
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Net Carbs: 1.2 g
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 24 mg
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Calcium: 190 mg
- Iron: 0.4 mg
Nut Information
Contains tree nuts?
- No
Contains peanuts?
- No
Nut-Free Status
- This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Allergy Tip
- Always check the labels on packaged cheeses, cream cheese, and seasonings if preparing for someone with a severe nut allergy, as manufacturing facilities may vary.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze the filling only for up to 2 months. Freshly baked cheese crisps have the best texture and are not recommended for freezing.
Reheating
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes or air fry for 2–3 minutes until crisp.
Tips for Success
- Drain excess moisture from the spinach to keep the filling creamy, not watery.
- Allow the cheese crisps to cool just slightly before shaping—they should still be flexible.
- Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for the best melting and crisping.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or sliced olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
- A pinch of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning adds another layer of savory flavor.
Variations
- Mediterranean Deluxe: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives.
- Spicy Version: Mix diced jalapeños into the filling.
- Protein Boost: Add chopped grilled chicken or cooked shrimp.
- Herb Lover’s: Stir in fresh dill, basil, and mint.
- Extra Crispy: Sprinkle additional Parmesan around the edges before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing with the cheeses.
Can I substitute feta?
Yes. Goat cheese, ricotta, or cottage cheese work well, though feta provides the classic Mediterranean flavor.
Why did my cheese crisps stick?
Using parchment paper and allowing the crisps to cool for 1–2 minutes before lifting helps prevent sticking.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance. Bake and assemble the crisps just before serving for the best texture.
Are these keto-friendly?
Yes. With about 1.2 g net carbs per crisp, they fit well into most low-carb and ketogenic eating plans.
What can I serve with them?
They pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, tomato cucumber salad, tzatziki, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Greek salad.
