This Spinach & Cheese Puff is a cozy treat that combines fresh spinach and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in flaky pastry. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
These puffs are perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer. I like to dip them in ranch or ketchup—don’t judge! They’re so good, you might end up finishing the whole batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: The foundation of this dish. Thawed frozen puff pastry is super convenient. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try phyllo dough, but remember it won’t puff quite the same way.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a vibrant flavor. If you have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. You could also use kale or Swiss chard as delicious alternatives.
Ricotta Cheese: It’s creamy and mild, perfect for blending. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works too, though it will have a more textured finish. Cream cheese could also work for a richer mixture.
Cheeses: I enjoy a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a nice balance of stretch and flavor. You can substitute any cheese that melts well, like fontina or Monterey Jack, depending on your preference.
Sesame Seeds: They add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor on top! If you don’t have these, poppy seeds or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs can work great for texture.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Spinach?
Cooking spinach may seem simple, but to get the best flavor and avoid sogginess, here’s a quick guide. Fresh spinach wilts very quickly, so timing is key.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, then add onions and garlic first. Sauté until the onion is translucent to build flavor.
- Next, add chopped spinach and stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts. Avoid cooking it too long.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance its taste. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the cheese mixture to avoid cooking it further.
How to Make Spinach & Cheese Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- Sesame seeds (for topping, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 20-25 minutes for baking. You’ll spend a little time cooking the filling and assembling the puffs, making it a quick and delightful dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This will make sure it’s hot and ready for your delicious puffs.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Spinach:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook it until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a moment.
4. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Add the sautéed spinach mixture into the bowl and stir everything together until well mixed. Your filling should be creamy and delicious!
5. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry. Cut it into squares that are about 4 inches on each side. This will form the base for your puffs.
6. Shape the Pastry Cups:
Grease a muffin tin lightly with butter or cooking spray. Take each puff pastry square and gently press it into the muffin tin, forming little cups for the filling.
7. Fill the Cups:
Now, take your spinach and cheese mixture, and spoon it into each pastry cup until they’re nicely filled. Don’t overfill, but get close!
8. Add the Finishing Touch:
Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color when they bake. If you like, sprinkle a few sesame seeds on top for some extra flavor and crunch.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and take them out once the pastry is puffy and golden brown!
10. Cool and Serve:
Let your Spinach & Cheese Puffs cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before removing them. They’re best enjoyed warm, so get ready to dig in!
Enjoy your delicious Spinach & Cheese Puffs!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water to prevent a soggy filling. A good way to do this is to place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
You can swap the ricotta for cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture. If you choose cottage cheese, consider blending it a bit to make it smoother. Cream cheese will create a richer filling, but you might want to add a little milk to lighten it up.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain the pastry’s crispness.
Can I Make These Puffs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the spinach and cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Assemble the puffs just before baking for the best texture and freshness. If you’d like to bake them in advance, you can also freeze the unbaked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag, and bake directly from frozen for about 25-30 minutes.
