Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These spinach balls are packed with flavor and have a great texture with every bite. The mixture of spinach, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese makes them cheesy, savory, and perfectly satisfying. They’re quick and easy to prepare, and the option to freeze them makes them a great make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed spinach, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
3. Shape the Spinach Balls
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the shaped balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the spinach balls are firm to the touch and lightly golden brown on the outside.
5. Cool and Serve
- Allow the spinach balls to cool slightly before serving. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Variations
- Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy version of these spinach balls.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
- Freezing: To make these spinach balls ahead of time, shape them into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet for 1 hour before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Refrigerating: Store leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just cook it down and thoroughly drain out all excess water before using it in the recipe.
2. Can I make these spinach balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach balls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking, as mentioned earlier.
3. Can I bake these in advance and freeze them?
Absolutely! You can bake the spinach balls ahead of time and freeze them. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I add more spices to the recipe?
Of course! You can experiment with additional spices like oregano, thyme, or basil for extra flavor.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
6. Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, if you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can use a flax egg or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for binding.
7. How do I know when the spinach balls are done?
The spinach balls are done when they’re firm to the touch and golden brown on the outside. You can also test one by cutting it open—there should be no raw dough inside.
8. How can I make these spinach balls crispy?
To get an extra crispy exterior, you can lightly spray the spinach balls with cooking spray before baking, or you can bake them on a wire rack placed on top of the baking sheet.
9. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, feta, or a blend of cheeses to change the flavor. The cheese adds richness, so feel free to experiment.
10. What should I serve with these spinach balls?
These spinach balls can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even as a side dish with pasta, soup, or a salad.
Conclusion
Quick Spinach Balls are a savory, bite-sized snack that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of spinach, cheese, and spices makes them deliciously comforting, while the crispy texture adds the perfect crunch. These versatile, freezer-friendly treats are perfect for meal prep, parties, or just a quick snack whenever you’re craving something satisfying. Whether you dip them in marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli, they’re sure to be a hit!
Quick Spinach Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick Spinach Balls are savory, bite-sized snacks made with spinach, cheese, and spices, baked to golden perfection. These delicious treats are versatile and freezer-friendly, making them perfect for parties, snacks, or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 large eggs
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine thawed spinach, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the mixture is slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop, and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the spinach balls are firm to the touch and golden brown on the outside.
- Allow the spinach balls to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
For a vegan version, use flax eggs and plant-based cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 spinach ball
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
