Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups

Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups — Do you love Spanakopita? Have you thought about making it but don’t know how to make the dough or fillings from scratch? I

got a new gadget for my kitchen that will solve these problems! Check out this Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Bites recipe!

Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups are a great and easy appetizer, made in minutes; you will soon find yourself making these, over and over again. Nothing is as good as a quick bite or easy appetizer–all made in the Air Fryer.

This is one of the easiest recipes I have made in the air fryer. Growing up, I was fortunate to have many Greek friends, and Spanakopita was usually served at many get-togethers. Today, I made my version, which took me about 20 minutes from start to finish. This is a great and easy recipe: Air Fryer Easy Spanakopita Bites.

Everyone loves Spanakopita. It is one of the most recognized Greek foods. It is usually made with homemade phyllo dough, which takes hours to prepare.

Spanakopita is usually referred to as the Greek Spinach Pie. It has a mix of spinach, feta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Today, I prepared the same flavors, but one-tenth of the time.

These make an excellent appetizer or a quick lunch. If you are looking for even more Easy Air Fryer Appetizer Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED JALAPEÑO POPPERS, AIR FRYER BLOOMING ONION, AIR FRYER CARROT FRENCH FRIES, and AIR FRYER CANDIED PECANS.

What Is Spanakopita Phyllo Cups

Spanakopita Phyllo Cups are bite-sized appetizers inspired by the traditional Greek dish spanakopita. They typically consist of a filling made from spinach, feta cheese, onions, garlic, and various herbs and spices, all encased in delicate layers of phyllo dough formed into small cups. The phyllo cups are baked until golden and crispy, resulting in a delicious and portable version of the classic spanakopita that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a flavorful snack.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Texture: Air frying creates perfectly crisp phyllo cups without the need for excess oil, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite. The air fryer achieves a golden brown exterior on the phyllo cups while keeping the filling moist and flavorful, ensuring a delightful texture contrast.

• Healthier Option: By using the air fryer instead of traditional frying methods, this recipe reduces the amount of oil used, resulting in a lighter and healthier appetizer. Enjoy all the deliciousness of spanakopita without the guilt, as air frying cuts down on unnecessary calories and fat.

• Convenience: Air fryer spanakopita phyllo cups are quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up a batch of these tasty appetizers in no time, impressing your guests with minimal effort.

• Versatility: While this recipe sticks to the classic spinach and feta filling, you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different fillings such as mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, or olives to create unique flavor combinations that cater to your cravings.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups

Embark on a culinary journey with Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups, where the classic flavors of Greek cuisine meet the convenience of modern air frying. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, offering a crispy exterior filled with savory spinach and feta filling that will tantalize your taste buds.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and earthy flavor to the filling while also providing a dose of vitamins and nutrients. Be sure to chop the spinach finely for even distribution throughout the phyllo cups.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta cheese adds a luscious texture and subtle sweetness to the spinach filling, enriching it with a delicate creaminess that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Feta Cheese: The creamy and tangy feta cheese pairs perfectly with the spinach, adding richness and depth of flavor to the filling. Crumble the feta evenly to ensure every bite is bursting with cheesy goodness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: The nutty and savory flavor of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the richness of the filling, providing a depth of flavor and a hint of saltiness that balances the sweetness of the ricotta.
• Egg White: Whipped egg white binds the filling together, ensuring a cohesive mixture that holds its shape within the delicate phyllo cups while adding lightness and structure.
• Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest brightens up the filling with its citrusy aroma and zesty flavor, adding a refreshing and aromatic twist that elevates the overall taste of the spinach cups.
• Phyllo Cups: Delicate and flaky phyllo cups serve as the crispy, golden-brown vessels for the spinach filling, providing a light and airy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ricotta mixture.
• Olive Oil: Lightly brushing the phyllo cups with olive oil before baking ensures they crisp up to perfection, adding a subtle richness and golden hue to the exterior while preventing them from becoming overly dry.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential, salt and pepper season the filling, balancing the flavors and enhancing the ingredients’ taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for the perfect flavor profile.

How To Make Spanakopita Phyllo Cups In Air Fryer

To make Spanakopita Phyllo Cups in an air fryer, follow these simple steps:

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine spinach and water. Cook until spinach is wilted, often stirring – about five minutes. Drain and cool for at least ten minutes, pressing spinach into a paper towel to blot moisture.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions, preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F, air fryer setting—spray air fryer basket with vegetable cooking spray. Combine ricotta cheese, feta cheese, parmesan cheese, egg white, oregano, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Add spinach and mix well to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated. Spoon the spinach mixture into each phyllo shell until all have been filled.

Air Fry for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the phyllo shells have crisped up. 

Recipe Variations

Here are some delicious recipe variations for Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups:

• Mushroom and Feta: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and ricotta filling mixture for an earthy flavor boost. Mix in crumbled feta cheese for a tangy and savory addition that pairs perfectly with the mushrooms.
• Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives into the filling mixture for a Mediterranean twist. The tomatoes’ sweet-tartness and the olives’ saltiness add depth of flavor to the Spanakopita Phyllo Cups.
• Spinach and Artichoke: Combine chopped artichoke hearts with the spinach and ricotta filling for a creamy and indulgent variation. The artichokes add a subtle sweetness and a hint of tanginess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Greek-Inspired Seasonings: Enhance the flavor of the filling by adding Greek-inspired seasonings such as dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of nutmeg. These aromatic spices elevate the taste of the Spanakopita Phyllo Cups with their vibrant and herbaceous notes.
• Spicy Spinach and Feta: Mix finely chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling mixture for a kick of heat. The spicy kick adds an exciting twist to the traditional Spanakopita Phyllo Cups, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their appetizers.

Feel free to experiment with these recipe variations to create your perfect Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups, customizing the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups turn out perfectly:

• Thaw Phyllo Dough Properly: Thaw the phyllo dough cups according to package instructions before using it for the cups. Handle it gently to prevent tearing, and cover it with a damp towel while assembling the cups to keep it from drying out.
• Wilt Spinach Properly: Wilt fresh spinach in a skillet with olive oil and garlic before adding it to the filling mixture. This helps to remove excess moisture from the spinach, preventing soggy phyllo cups.
• Use Light Olive Oil: Opt for light olive oil or oil spray when brushing the phyllo cups. This prevents the cups from becoming too greasy while achieving a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
• Do Not Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the phyllo cups with the filling mixture. Leave a little space at the top to allow the phyllo dough to crisp up evenly around the edges.
• Adjust Air Fryer Temperature: Depending on the thickness of the phyllo dough and your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the temperature or cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the cups as they cook to prevent burning.
• Serve Immediately: Spanakopita Phyllo Cups are best served fresh and warm from the air fryer. If preparing them in advance, store them in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat them in the air fryer just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
• Get Creative with Garnishes: Garnish the cooked phyllo cups with additional grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor and visual appeal.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious and perfectly crispy Air Fryer Spanakopita Phyllo Cups that are sure to impress your guests.

Faq’s

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the phyllo cups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. However, for best results, it’s recommended to air fry them just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.

Can I freeze Spanakopita Phyllo Cups? Yes, you can freeze unbaked Spanakopita Phyllo Cups for later use. Arrange the assembled cups on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, air fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out? To prevent the phyllo dough from drying out while assembling the cups, cover it with a damp towel or paper towel while working. This helps to keep the dough moist and pliable.

Can I use store-bought phyllo cups instead of making my own? Yes, you can use pre-made phyllo cups if you prefer. Fill them with the spinach and ricotta mixture and then air fry according to the recipe instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

What can I serve with Spanakopita Phyllo Cups? Spanakopita Phyllo Cups pair well with a variety of dips such as tzatziki, hummus, or a simple yogurt-based sauce. They also make a delicious appetizer alongside a Greek salad or as part of a mezze platter.

Can I make these vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can make vegetarian Spanakopita Phyllo Cups by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative. To make them vegan, use a dairy-free ricotta substitute and brush the phyllo cups with melted vegan butter or oil instead of olive oil.

Can I reheat leftover Spanakopita Phyllo Cups? Yes, you can reheat leftover Spanakopita Phyllo Cups in the air fryer or oven until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat them, as the phyllo dough can become too crispy.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER, HOMEMADE GREEK BURGERS
• INSTANT POT, GREEK LEMON RICE
• INSTANT POT GREEK LEMON CHICKEN SOUP

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