Spinach Cheese Puffs
Crispy spinach cheese puffs bursting with cheesy flavors, perfect as a snack or appetizer for parties, accommodating various tastes with their savory, cheesy, and spinach notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach with chopped onion according to package directions. Drain well.
- Press out excess liquid from the spinach mixture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Cheddar cheese, Blue cheese salad dressing, melted margarine, and garlic powder.
- Stir in the cooked spinach mixture and the corn muffin mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Cover and chill until serving time.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and heated through.
- Serve with Dijon mustard or sour cream as a dip. Puffs can be frozen and baked as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or oregano to the mixture. You can substitute the Blue cheese salad dressing with ranch dressing if preferred. If you want a lighter version, use egg whites instead of whole eggs. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid soggy puffs. These puffs are also great for brunch or as an appetizer at parties.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spinach Cheese Puffs hot with a side of Dijon mustard or sour cream for dipping. They pair beautifully with classic American recipes, making them a great addition to any gathering. Consider serving alongside a fresh salad or as part of a buffet spread. These puffs can also be a delightful snack for game day or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag, baking them directly from frozen when needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Cheese Puffs contains roughly 80 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 the puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs in advance and chill them until ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining. You can also freeze them before baking; just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even a vegetarian cheese alternative. Just be mindful that it may slightly alter the flavor profile, but the puffs will still be delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even artichokes for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them beforehand to reduce moisture content.
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).