Spinach Balls Or Casserole
Savory spinach balls or casserole featuring tender spinach, herbs, cheese, and a crispy stuffing crust, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach until tender, then drain thoroughly to remove all water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the herb stuffing mix, chopped onion, thyme, chopped water chestnuts, beaten eggs, garlic salt, pepper, melted margarine, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add the cooked and drained spinach to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into balls or transfer to a casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture. If you don't have water chestnuts, chopped celery or bell peppers can create a similar crunch. For a gluten-free version, substitute the herb stuffing mix with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure spinach is well-drained to avoid a soggy texture in your dish.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach balls or casserole make a great appetizer or side dish. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal. They also complement hearty main dishes like Loaf Pot Roast A La Ina, making them a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spinach balls or casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Balls Or Casserole contains roughly 316 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach, which should be cooked down to yield the same amount as the frozen. Make sure to thoroughly drain the fresh spinach to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Can I freeze the spinach balls for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked spinach balls. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with spinach balls?
Spinach balls pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with a light yogurt dip or a tangy vinaigrette. They also complement hearty entrees like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, and can be part of a vegetarian meal alongside roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad.
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).