Spinach Balls Hors D'Oeuvres
Creamy spinach balls seasoned with Parmesan and herbs, baked to perfection. Perfect as appetizers for parties or gatherings, appealing to vegetarians and spinach lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook and drain (squeeze) the thawed spinach.
- Mix margarine with spinach until melted.
- Add Parmesan cheese and beaten eggs to the cooled spinach mixture.
- Form into balls approximately 1 tablespoon in size.
- Place on a cookie sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the spinach mixture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free stuffing instead of Pepperidge Farm herb stuffing. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer taste or use olive oil for a healthier choice. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spinach balls with a tangy dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch, for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or can be served alongside a cheese platter. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a side of pasta or alongside the Best Oatmeal Cookies for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spinach balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be enjoyed cold as a snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Balls Hors D'Oeuvres contains roughly 748 calories, with 15g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 balls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when you're ready to serve.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, you'll need about 1 pound. Cook it down, then squeeze out the excess moisture just like you would with frozen spinach. This will ensure the right consistency for your spinach balls.
What can I serve with spinach balls?
These spinach balls are versatile and can be served as appetizers or snacks. They complement a variety of dips like hummus or tzatziki. You can also serve them alongside a variety of American recipes for a festive gathering.
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).