Spinach Puffs

by

Spinach Puffs are flaky, buttery pastries filled with a creamy, cheesy spinach mixture that’s both savory and satisfying. These delightful bites are made by wrapping puff pastry around a filling of sautéed spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and Parmesan or feta cheese. They’re then baked until golden and crispy, creating a melt-in-your-mouth snack or appetizer that’s perfect for parties, brunches, or any gathering.

I first made Spinach Puffs when I needed a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer, and they were a massive success! The combination of rich, creamy filling and light, flaky pastry is simply irresistible. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can add chopped artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or spices like nutmeg to the filling for extra flavor. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Spinach Puffs are an elegant yet easy treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Perfect for:

  • Appetizers
  • Party snacks
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Quick bites
  • Vegetarians

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Spinach Puffs will become your go-to appetizer:

  • Perfectly Crispy: The flaky puff pastry provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
  • Rich and Savory: The combination of spinach, cheese, and seasonings creates a rich, umami-packed flavor.
  • Easy to Make: This simple recipe comes together quickly with minimal ingredients.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these puffs in advance and bake them just before serving for a stress-free appetizer.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Packed with healthy spinach, these puffs are a perfect choice for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
  • Customizable Fillings: You can adjust the cheeses or add extra herbs for a personalized flavor.
  • Snackable Size: These bite-sized puffs are perfect for grabbing and enjoying on the go.
  • Great for Entertaining: Their elegant look and rich flavor make them perfect for dinner parties and gatherings.
  • Freezable: These puffs can be frozen before baking and then baked straight from the freezer for a last-minute snack.
  • Kid-Friendly: Mild and creamy, these puffs are a great way to get kids to enjoy their veggies.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 puffs
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Spinach Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Puff Pastry:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Fresh Spinach: Adds a mild, earthy flavor and a burst of green goodness to the filling.
  • Ricotta and Cream Cheese: Provide a creamy, rich base for the spinach mixture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Gives a nutty, salty depth to the flavor.
  • Puff Pastry: Adds a crispy, buttery crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Spinach Filling:

  1. Cook the Spinach: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat until wilted and the moisture evaporates. Let it cool.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach with ricotta, cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.

Assemble the Puffs:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 12 squares.
  3. Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each square.
  4. Seal the Puffs: Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges together to seal.
  5. Brush with Egg Wash: Whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of the puffs for a golden, glossy finish.

Bake the Puffs:

  1. Bake: Arrange the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve the puffs warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Spinach Puffs:

  • As a Party Appetizer: Serve with a side of marinara or garlic dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
  • With a Salad: Pair with a light, fresh salad for a balanced meal.
  • As a Snack: Enjoy these puffs on their own as a satisfying snack.
  • For Brunch: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or quiche for a hearty brunch spread.
  • With Soup: Perfect for dipping into creamy soups, like tomato or butternut squash.
  • As a Party Platter: Serve a variety of different dips, like ranch or hummus, alongside for dipping.
  • For Afternoon Tea: Serve in smaller portions with tea for a light afternoon treat.
  • As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables or a pasta dish for a delicious side.
  • For Meal Prep: Pack these puffs for a portable lunch option.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Spinach – For a fresher taste, use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Be sure to sauté it to remove excess moisture before adding to the puff pastry.
  • Experiment with Cheeses – While feta and cream cheese are popular choices, try adding grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
  • Season Well – Add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to your spinach filling to enhance its savory flavor.
  • Brush with Egg Wash – For a golden, shiny finish, brush the puff pastry with a beaten egg before baking.
  • Add Nuts for Crunch – For extra texture, sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the spinach filling.
  • Make Ahead – Prepare the spinach filling ahead of time and refrigerate it, so when you’re ready to assemble, it’s a quick process.
  • Serve with Dips – Pair your spinach puffs with a tangy yogurt dip or a creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.
  • Try Phyllo Dough – If you prefer a flakier texture, swap puff pastry for phyllo dough, layering it for extra crispiness.
  • Add Protein – For a heartier snack, mix in cooked chicken, beef bacon bits, or ground beef to the spinach filling.
  • Freeze for Later – Assemble your spinach puffs and freeze them before baking. You can bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready for a snack.

Recipe Variations

  • Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheeses for feta, goat cheese, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Garlic: Add a clove of minced garlic to the spinach mixture for extra savory depth.
  • Add Mushrooms: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the filling for an earthy twist.
  • Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and puff pastry for a plant-based version.
  • Spicy Spinach Puffs: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce to the spinach filling for some heat.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Sheet: For baking the puffs evenly.
  • Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry.
  • Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
  • Parchment Paper: To prevent the puffs from sticking to the baking sheet.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen spinach?
    Yes, just be sure to squeeze out all excess water after thawing.
  2. How long do these puffs last?
    They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
  3. Can I freeze these puffs?
    Yes, freeze them before baking, and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  4. Can I make these gluten-free?
    Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version.
  5. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  6. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
    Yes, phyllo dough can be used for a lighter, flakier alternative.
  7. How can I reheat leftover puffs?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
  8. Can I add meat to the filling?
    Yes, cooked ground chicken, sausage, or beef bacon would work well in the filling.
  9. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
    Use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute.
  10. How do I get my puffs extra crispy?
    Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using, and bake on a lined baking sheet for a crisp bottom.

Conclusion

Spinach Puffs are a savory and flaky appetizer or snack that combines buttery puff pastry with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something rich and satisfying. The golden, crispy exterior pairs beautifully with the warm, flavorful filling, making them a crowd-pleaser every time.

To make them, start by preparing the filling with sautéed spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and a blend of cheeses like Parmesan or feta for added tanginess. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors. Cut puff pastry sheets into squares, place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center, and fold or pinch the edges to seal the pastry. Brush with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish, then bake until puffed and golden brown. Spinach Puffs are versatile and can be customized with additional ingredients like chopped artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and bake just before serving, making them a convenient option for entertaining.

I can’t wait to see how your Spinach Puffs turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made these puffs your own!