Quick And Easy Spinach Balls
Quick and easy spinach balls with cheesy, savory flavor, perfect as a snack or appetizer. Suitable for vegetarians and parties, they are simple to prepare and reheat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well and shape into bite-sized balls.
- Bake on a cookie sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
- These may be frozen and reheated before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat or vegan alternatives for the butter and cheese. Adding minced garlic or onion can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the seasoned bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the balls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spinach balls as an appetizer or snack, paired with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. They also complement a fresh salad or can be enjoyed alongside a main dish like Breaded Chicken Fingers for a complete meal. For a vegetarian twist, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
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 in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they're well-wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Spinach Balls contains roughly 1332 calories, with 21g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1315mg per serving (57% 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 cook it down, drain it well, and chop it before mixing it into the recipe. You may need about 1 to 1.5 pounds of fresh spinach to equal the amount of cooked spinach required.
How can I make these spinach balls dairy-free?
To make the spinach balls dairy-free, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Additionally, ensure the butter is replaced with a plant-based margarine.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the balls a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, and then bake them just before serving. Alternatively, you can freeze them raw and bake directly from the freezer when needed.
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).