Baked Spinach Balls
Creamy, cheesy spinach balls with a crispy exterior, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for gatherings and family dinners, offering a savory, satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach following directions; drain well.
- Set aside. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine eggs, Parmesan cheese, softened butter, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Stir in cooked spinach and crushed stuffing mix.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach after cooking, as this will prevent soggy balls. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with any hard cheese of your choice, such as Pecorino Romano, for a different flavor. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can work in a pinch. Feel free to add some minced garlic or onion for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious baked spinach balls warm as a tasty appetizer or snack. They pair beautifully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or as part of a vegetarian platter. They can also be enjoyed as a side dish with main courses from American recipes or at a gathering with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, but the oven method will keep them crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Spinach Balls contains roughly 58 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 use fresh spinach! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted, then drain and chop it before adding it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the spinach balls.
Can I make these spinach balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Just refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead of time and reheat them when needed.
What can I serve with spinach balls?
These spinach balls make a great appetizer on their own, but you can also serve them with marinara sauce, yogurt dip, or a tangy vinaigrette. They pair well with a light salad or as a side to a hearty main dish.
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).