Name: Delicious Spinach Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486810H6M30S
Total time: PT-486810H6M30S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese• 2 large eggs, beaten• 2 cloves garlic, minced• 1 teaspoon dried oregano• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Spinach balls have long been a beloved appetizer, captivating taste buds with their savory flavors and satisfying texture. These bite-sized delights are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick and healthy snack, or simply craving a comforting, vegetable-packed treat, this spinach balls recipe is sure to impress.

What makes these spinach balls so special? The combination of fresh spinach, savory cheese, and aromatic seasonings creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and unique. With a crisp exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, each morsel delivers a satisfying experience that will leave your guests craving more.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

Spinach balls are not only a crowd-pleasing appetizer, but they also offer a range of benefits that make them a versatile and appealing choice. From their convenient make-ahead capabilities to their nutrient-dense ingredients, these spinach balls check all the boxes for a truly exceptional recipe.

One of the standout features of this spinach balls recipe is its accessibility. The ingredients are largely pantry or freezer staples, making it easy to whip up a batch on a whim. The preparation process is straightforward, with no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required. This means you can enjoy the deliciousness of homemade spinach balls without the hassle of a complex recipe.

🛒 What You Need to Prepare Spinach Balls ❓

• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

The beauty of this spinach balls recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of frozen spinach, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic seasonings creates the Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that has made these appetizer recipes perennially popular.

📝 How to Make Spinach Balls Step-by-Step ❓

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Step 3: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
• Step 4: Bake the spinach balls for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• Step 5: Remove the spinach balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 18-20 minutes
• Total time: 33-35 minutes

Compared to traditional stuffed mushrooms or cheese-filled appetizers, which can take up to 45 minutes to prepare, this spinach balls recipe saves you over 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

👩🏻‍⚕️ Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 24 servings):

• Calories: 84
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg

These spinach balls provide approximately 10% of your daily vitamin A requirements and 15% of your daily vitamin K needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduced-fat option: Use low-fat or part-skim Parmesan cheese and substitute whole eggs with egg whites.
• Lower-carb version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground flaxseed to reduce the carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free, vegan alternative, such as nutritional yeast or a plant-based parmesan-style cheese.
• Added protein: Mix in cooked and crumbled turkey bacon or chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to boost the protein content.
• Boost vegetables: Finely chop and add other nutrient-dense veggies, such as shredded zucchini or diced bell peppers, to the spinach mixture.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 25% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the spinach balls.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad or a light, Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish for a complete meal.
• Complement the spinach balls with a hearty tomato soup or a creamy mushroom bisque for a cozy, comforting spread.
• For a festive gathering, create an appetizer platter with the spinach balls, along with other bite-sized favorites like bruschetta, stuffed grape leaves, and roasted red pepper hummus.
• Enjoy the spinach balls as a tasty snack or a satisfying vegetarian-friendly option for game nights, movie nights, or casual get-togethers.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to space the spinach balls apart on the baking sheet to allow for even browning and crisping. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, resulting in a soggy texture.
• Undercooking the spinach: Ensure the spinach is thoroughly thawed and drained before mixing it into the other ingredients. Excess moisture can make the spinach balls difficult to form and bake properly.
• Using the wrong breadcrumbs: Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs, which will enhance the overall flavor of the spinach balls. Plain breadcrumbs may result in a less flavorful final product.
• Overhandling the mixture: Be gentle when forming the spinach balls to prevent them from becoming dense or tough. Overmixing can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow the baked spinach balls to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help them retain their shape and crispy exterior.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These spinach balls retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store the baked spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the spinach ball mixture, form the balls, and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze the unbaked balls for 2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake the frozen balls directly from the freezer, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked spinach balls to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen spinach balls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

❓ FAQs

Can I make the spinach balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! The spinach ball mixture can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the unbaked spinach balls for up to 3 months, making them a convenient and versatile appetizer option.

Can I substitute fresh spinach for frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Simply sauté the fresh spinach until wilted, then drain and chop it before adding it to the recipe. The amount of fresh spinach needed is approximately 1 pound, which will yield the same volume as the 10 ounces of frozen spinach called for in the recipe.

Are these spinach balls gluten-free?

To make the spinach balls gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or a combination of almond flour and ground flaxseed. These alternatives will provide the same texture and binding properties without the gluten.

Why are my spinach balls falling apart?

If your spinach balls are falling apart, it’s likely due to one of two reasons: either the mixture is too dry, or it’s been overhandled. Make sure to thoroughly drain the thawed spinach and add just enough breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. Additionally, be gentle when forming the balls to avoid compacting the ingredients too much.

Can I add other vegetables to the spinach balls?

Absolutely! The spinach balls recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily incorporate other finely chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions. Just be sure to adjust the breadcrumb amount accordingly to maintain the proper consistency. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.

Conclusion

These spinach balls represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a quick and healthy snack, or a complementary side dish, they’re sure to impress with their crispy exterior and flavorful interior. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these spinach balls demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So, why not give this delightful recipe a try and experience the joy of serving up a crowd-pleasing, nutrient-dense appetizer that’s sure to become a new family favorite.