Sausage, Spinach Balls
Savory sausage and spinach balls with garlic croutons and Romano cheese, perfect as an appetizer or hearty snack for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Refrigerate the mixture for one hour.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of hot sausage. You can also substitute the Romano cheese with Parmesan or any hard cheese you prefer. If the mixture feels too wet, add more croutons to help bind it. Using fresh spinach instead of frozen can enhance the flavor, just make sure to sauté it beforehand to reduce moisture.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage and spinach balls are great as appetizers or party snacks. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness. They also pair well with a creamy dip, making them a versatile option for gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving them with Baked Apple 'N Sausage Pancakes for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. They can also be microwaved, but the oven method helps maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage, Spinach Balls contains roughly 1531 calories, with 45g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), iron (146% of the Daily Value), and protein (89% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1484mg per serving (65% 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 sausage and spinach balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and roll the balls, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. You can also freeze them before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
What can I serve with sausage and spinach balls?
These balls are perfect as finger food or appetizers. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce like marinara or ranch. For a heartier option, serve them alongside a mixed greens salad or even alongside Club Cracker Cookies for a fun, varied platter at your next gathering.
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Yes, feel free to customize! Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives can introduce a new layer of flavor. You could also mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables. Just be mindful of the moisture content to maintain the right consistency for rolling.
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).