Swamp Balls
Savory, cheesy spinach balls with seasoned stuffing, perfect as an appetizer or party snack, offering rich flavors and a crispy exterior with tender interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare spinach according to package directions. Drain and press down to remove moisture.
- Add remaining ingredients: seasoned stuffing mix, beaten eggs, melted butter, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and Accent.
- Mix well until combined.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Can be frozen before baking and baked directly from frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding cooked sausage or crumbled bacon to the mixture for extra flavor. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible to prevent sogginess. Using a cookie scoop can help achieve uniform ball sizes for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
These swamp balls make a great appetizer or snack. Serve them with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch dressing for added flavor. They pair nicely with Quick And Easy Creamy Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover swamp balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, although the oven method helps maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swamp Balls contains roughly 322 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% 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 swamp balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and roll them into balls in advance. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will still provide a nice depth of flavor to the swamp balls.
How do I know when swamp balls are done baking?
The swamp balls are done when they are golden brown and firm to the touch. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F for safe consumption. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).