Appetizer Spinach Balls
Creamy spinach balls with mozzarella and herbs, perfect as a savory appetizer for parties or gatherings, offering a cheesy, flavorful bite in every piece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer to a Ziploc bag for storage.
- When ready to serve, bake the frozen spinach balls for 20 minutes at 375°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cheese or baking the spinach balls instead of frying. If fresh spinach is available, use it by cooking down about 1 pound and squeezing out excess moisture. Herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the flavor profile. Be mindful of the saltiness from the stuffing mix when adding additional seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spinach balls as a tasty appetizer at parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a tangy dip, such as marinara or ranch dressing. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or with a side of roasted vegetables. They also complement a main dish like grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F for about 20 minutes until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method preserves their texture and flavor effectively.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Spinach Balls contains roughly 1553 calories, with 47g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (94% of the Daily Value), calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1829mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach for the frozen variety. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Cook it down, chop it, and make sure to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How long can I store the uncooked spinach balls in the freezer?
Uncooked spinach balls can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped or placed in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make these spinach balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time. Just shape them into balls, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a Ziploc bag. When you're ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).