Seasoned Spinach Balls
Seasoned spinach balls are savory, cheesy bites perfect for appetizers or parties, combining spinach, Parmesan, and herbs for a flavorful vegetarian treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine thawed and drained spinach, crushed stuffing mix, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, and softened margarine or butter. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on two ungreased 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes, or until set.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or chopped onions into the mixture. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. If you want a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent sogginess in the balls.
Serving Suggestions
These seasoned spinach balls make an excellent appetizer or party snack. Serve them with a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip for a delightful contrast. They pair beautifully with Command Performance Corn Pudding, creating a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the spinach balls on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just be careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seasoned Spinach Balls contains roughly 1257 calories, with 20g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1600mg per serving (70% 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 freeze the spinach balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped spinach balls before baking. Just arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can easily substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut oil or olive oil can also work well in this recipe, though they will impart a different taste.
How can I make these spinach balls gluten-free?
To make gluten-free spinach balls, substitute the herb-seasoned stuffing mix with a gluten-free alternative or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
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).