Cheese Spinach Puffs
Cheese Spinach Puffs are savory snacks featuring spinach, cheeses, and a muffin mix, perfect for appetizers or party bites with rich, cheesy flavors and a crispy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the chopped spinach and chopped onion.
- Cook the spinach according to package directions.
- Drain all liquid from the cooked spinach.
- In a bowl, combine the beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, shredded Cheddar, blue cheese salad dressing, melted butter, and garlic powder.
- Add the drained spinach mixture and the corn muffin mix to the bowl and stir well.
- Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Form the chilled batter into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt instead of blue cheese dressing. You can also substitute the corn muffin mix with a homemade version using flour, cornmeal, and baking powder. Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible to prevent sogginess. For added flavor, mix in some herbs like dill or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese spinach puffs make a delightful appetizer or party snack, perfect for gatherings. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Pittsburgh Potatoes for a hearty meal. Consider presenting them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese spinach puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, maintaining a crispy texture. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but they may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Spinach Puffs contains roughly 659 calories, with 12g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 471mg per serving (20% 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 use fresh spinach. Just make sure to cook it down until wilted and then drain any excess moisture thoroughly. This will help maintain the right consistency for the puffs.
What can I serve with cheese spinach puffs?
These puffs are versatile and can be served with various dips like marinara, ranch dressing, or a tangy yogurt dip. Pair them with a light salad or some vegetable sticks for a well-rounded appetizer.
Can I freeze the cheese spinach puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked puffs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
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).