Better Homes And Gardens Cheese And Spinach Puffs
Cheese and spinach puffs are savory, cheesy bites with a hint of garlic, perfect for appetizers, parties, or snacking, combining creamy cheeses with tender spinach in a crispy exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach and onion according to package directions.
- Drain well, pressing out excess liquid.
- In a bowl, combine eggs, Parmesan cheese, Cheddar cheese, Blue cheese salad dressing, melted margarine, and garlic powder.
- Stir in cooked spinach and muffin mix.
- Cover and chill for 1 hour or until easy to handle.
- Shape into 1-inch balls.
- Arrange on a baking sheet.
- Cover and chill until serving time or freeze for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheeses or Greek yogurt instead of Blue cheese salad dressing. You can also substitute the frozen spinach with fresh spinach; just sauté it until wilted before adding. Ensure to press out as much moisture as possible from the spinach to avoid soggy puffs. If you prefer more flavor, add herbs like dill or thyme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese and spinach puffs as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed alongside a hearty soup. Consider offering a dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch, for added flavor. For a complete meal, serve with a slice of Spinach And Tomato Quiche.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese and spinach puffs 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 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also freeze them before baking and cook directly from frozen when ready.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Better Homes And Gardens Cheese And Spinach Puffs contains roughly 921 calories, with 32g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1168mg per serving (51% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used. You'll need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach, which should be sautéed until wilted and then drained thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the right texture in your puffs.
How can I make these puffs spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture. You could also serve with a spicy dipping sauce to cater to those who enjoy a kick in their appetizers.
Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Alternatively, freeze them after shaping and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).