These savory little baskets are made by pressing thin slices of prosciutto into muffin cups, creating edible shells. They’re then filled with a rich ricotta and cheese mixture seasoned with pepper, salt, and finished with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor. The result is salty, creamy, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying.
They work perfectly as appetizers for parties, brunch table stars, holiday starters, or even a quick light lunch when paired with a fresh salad.
What Are Prosciutto Baskets?
The idea comes from the tradition of using cured meats as both flavor and structure. Prosciutto itself dates back centuries and is one of Italy’s most celebrated cured meats, traditionally dry-aged and served in everything from antipasti platters to pasta dishes. Because prosciutto becomes firmer as it bakes, it acts like a ready-made crispy shell without needing flour OR rolling pins.
Pro Tips for the Best Prosciutto Baskets
- Thin slices mold better into muffin cups and crisp up more evenly. Thick slices can feel chewy instead of lightly crisp.
- Prosciutto is naturally salty, and cheese adds even more. A small pinch is plenty, as this is not the time for bold salt decisions.
- Ricotta can be a little lumpy, so give it a proper stir. A smooth filling bakes more evenly and looks much neater.
- Avoid overfilling the baskets, or the mixture may bubble over and create a cheesy volcano situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Cottage Cheese Instead of Ricotta?
You can, but the texture will be slightly different. Ricotta is smoother and gives a softer, creamier filling, while cottage cheese can be more textured. If using cottage cheese, blending it briefly helps create a smoother consistency that works better for this recipe.
Do I Need a Muffin Tray?
Yes, it helps shape the baskets properly and keeps them upright while baking. Without one, the prosciutto won’t hold that neat cup shape.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Filling?
Finely chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced roasted peppers work beautifully here. Just make sure they’re not too watery, or the filling may become too loose and affect baking.
Are Prosciutto Baskets Served Hot or Cold?
They’re best served warm when the filling is soft, and the prosciutto edges still have that lovely crisp texture. That said, they’re still delicious at room temperature, which makes them ideal for buffets and party platters.
How Do I Keep Them from Sticking?
Paper liners help a lot, but you can also lightly grease them for extra insurance. Letting them cool slightly before removing also makes a big difference.
Can I Freeze Them?
They can be frozen, though it is best enjoyed fresh. Wrap cooled baskets individually and store in an airtight container.
How to Store Leftovers
They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature. If storing for a party, keep the garnish separate and add fresh chives just before serving for the best finish.
Ingredients
How to Make Prosciutto Baskets
;Resize,width=712;)
Begin by lining your muffin tray with paper cups. Take slices of prosciutto and place them inside each cup, gently pressing them down and around the sides to form small basket shapes.
Begin by lining your muffin tray with paper cups. Take slices of prosciutto and place them inside each cup, gently pressing them down and around the sides to form small basket shapes.
;Resize,width=712;)
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated cheese, pepper, and salt.
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated cheese, pepper, and salt.
;Resize,width=712;)
Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each prosciutto basket. Place the tray into a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) and bake for 20 minutes.
Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each prosciutto basket. Place the tray into a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) and bake for 20 minutes.
;Resize,width=712;)
Carefully remove the baskets from the tray and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives and serve.
Carefully remove the baskets from the tray and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives and serve.
;Resize,width=767;)
