Hot Spinach Balls
Hot Spinach Balls are savory, bite-sized appetizers packed with seasoned spinach, herbs, and crispy croutons. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Serve them hot for an irresistible snack or appetizer that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package directions; drain well.
- Combine cooked spinach with remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Chill mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Form the spinach mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Bake on a greased cookie sheet at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have seasoned crouton stuffing, you can use regular croutons mixed with a bit of Italian seasoning. Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid a soggy mixture. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hot spinach balls as a delicious appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or as part of a vegetarian platter with hummus and pita. They can also complement a main dish like pasta or grilled chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. They can also be microwaved for quick reheating, but they may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Spinach Balls contains roughly 1168 calories, with 32g protein, 215g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just form the balls and bake them when you're ready to serve. This is a great time-saver for parties or gatherings.
Can I freeze the spinach balls?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the spinach balls to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, and then add it to the mixture. This works well for vegetarian recipes and keeps the spinach balls together.
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).