Spinach Cheese Balls
Delicious spinach cheese balls combine tender spinach, melted Cheddar, and savory herbs, perfect as an appetizer or snack for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach and drain until very dry.
- Combine the cooked spinach with the ground herb stuffing, chopped onion, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Roll the mixture into small balls about the size of an egg yolk.
- Place the balls in a pan and freeze until firm.
- When ready to serve, set out the frozen balls and thaw for 5 minutes.
- Place the thawed balls on a lightly greased baking tin and bake at 325°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic or herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture. If you don't have herb stuffing, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be a good substitute. Make sure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy balls. You can also use a mix of cheeses for a different taste, like mozzarella or feta.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach cheese balls make a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or family gatherings. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as part of a vegetarian platter alongside hummus and pita. Browse more vegetarian recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the spinach cheese balls on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, though the texture may differ slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Cheese Balls contains roughly 1020 calories, with 26g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 970mg per serving (42% 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! You'll need about 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh spinach. Cook it down until wilted, then thoroughly drain and chop before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make these spinach cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze the balls before baking. Just roll them into balls, freeze until firm, and store in a freezer bag. When you're ready to cook them, thaw for a few minutes and bake as directed.
What can I serve with spinach cheese balls?
These delicious bites pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or tzatziki for added flavor. They also complement drinks like white wine or a light beer.
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).