Aunt Mary'S Spinach Balls
A savory, cheesy spinach ball appetizer with a crispy exterior and tender interior, perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a delicious side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package directions and drain in a sieve; press out as much liquid as possible.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked spinach, stuffing mix, Parmesan cheese, eggs, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet and freeze until firm.
- After completely frozen, remove and transfer to a freezer bag for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or chopped onions into the mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the melted butter with olive oil. Be sure to press out as much liquid from the spinach as possible; this will help the balls hold their shape during cooking. If you're short on time, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen, just sauté it beforehand.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach balls make a delightful appetizer or side dish. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce or alongside a hearty salad for a well-rounded meal. They pair beautifully with Mama Jo's Chicken Casserole for a comforting family dinner. For a vegetarian option, enjoy them with a side of Hearty Cheese Soup for a cozy meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. They can also be microwaved, but baking will help retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Spinach Balls contains roughly 809 calories, with 12g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1116mg per serving (49% 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 make these spinach balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach balls in advance and freeze them. Once formed, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of chicken flavor stuffing mix?
If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken flavor stuffing mix with vegetable stuffing mix. You can also use breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for a similar texture and flavor profile.
How do I know when the spinach balls are done cooking?
The spinach balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. If you're unsure, you can cut one open to check that it's heated through. Baking them at the right temperature ensures they cook evenly.
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).