If you’re looking for a healthy, crowd-pleasing appetizer, Spinach Balls are the perfect choice. This easy, make-ahead dish is packed with flavor, nutritious ingredients, and comes together with just a few simple steps. Spinach balls are made with fresh or frozen spinach, breadcrumbs, cheese, eggs, and a mix of herbs and seasonings, creating a savory and delicious bite that’s crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a quick snack, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will appeal to both kids and adults alike.
What’s great about spinach balls is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, pack them into lunch boxes, or enjoy them as a meat-free addition to any meal. This recipe is also easy to customize: you can add your favorite cheese, experiment with different herbs, or even make them gluten-free with a few simple swaps. These spinach balls are baked rather than fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or crispiness.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step of making the Best Ever Spinach Balls Appetizer. You’ll get tips on how to choose and prepare the spinach, tricks for achieving the perfect texture, and ideas for serving and customizing this delicious dish. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a casual dinner, or a meal prep session, spinach balls are a convenient and flavorful choice that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy and Delicious: Spinach balls are packed with nutrients from spinach and cheese, offering a healthy appetizer that’s also full of flavor.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires only a few ingredients and is simple to prepare, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep.
Baked, Not Fried: Baking instead of frying gives these spinach balls a crispy exterior with less oil, making them a lighter, healthier option.
Great for Meal Prep: These spinach balls freeze well and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to prepare a batch and have them ready whenever you need.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 24 spinach balls
- Serving Size: 2-3 spinach balls
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients
For the Spinach Balls:
- 10 oz fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Tzatziki
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- If Using Fresh Spinach: Place the fresh spinach in a steamer basket or saucepan with a splash of water. Steam over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer the spinach to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess water. Chop the spinach finely.
- If Using Frozen Spinach: Thaw the spinach completely, then place it in a fine-mesh strainer or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as possible. Properly draining the spinach is key to ensuring the spinach balls hold together.
- Set Aside: Place the prepared spinach in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the spinach, add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix well until the mixture starts to come together and holds its shape. The eggs help bind the ingredients, creating a cohesive mixture that’s easy to shape into balls.
- Adjust the Texture: If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or an extra egg. If it’s too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs to help absorb the excess moisture.
Step 3: Shape the Spinach Balls
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each spinach ball on the prepared baking sheet. You should have about 24 spinach balls.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each spinach ball with a small amount of olive oil. This helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Spinach Balls
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the spinach balls are firm and lightly golden on the outside. Turn them halfway through baking for even browning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the spinach balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange on a Serving Platter: Transfer the spinach balls to a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Serve the spinach balls with a selection of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or tzatziki. The dipping sauces add flavor and make them even more enjoyable.
How to Serve Spinach Balls
Spinach balls are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various serving ideas:
- As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and dipping sauces for a party-ready appetizer.
- In Lunch Boxes: Pack spinach balls in lunch boxes along with veggies, fruit, and dip for a nutritious snack.
- With a Salad: Pair spinach balls with a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside main dishes like grilled chicken, steak, or fish for added flavor and nutrients.
- In Pita Wraps: Place spinach balls in pita bread with hummus, cucumber, and lettuce for a delicious wrap.
Additional Tips for Success
- Drain the Spinach Well: Removing as much moisture as possible from the spinach is crucial for preventing soggy spinach balls. Use a kitchen towel to squeeze out excess water for the best results.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and create a gooier texture than pre-packaged cheese.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the mixture before forming the balls and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Bake Until Golden: For a crispy exterior, bake the spinach balls until they’re golden and firm. If they need extra crispiness, place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Serve Fresh: Spinach balls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re warm and crisp. However, they can be reheated if needed.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Spinach Balls: Add extra shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar to the mixture for a gooier, cheesier center.
- Herb-Infused Spinach Balls: Use fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or dill to infuse more flavor. Fresh herbs add a vibrant taste and color to the spinach balls.
- Spicy Spinach Balls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Spinach Balls: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. You can also use almond flour as a substitute.
- Vegan Spinach Balls: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of eggs, and substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
Freezing and Storage
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: Spinach balls freeze well, making them ideal for meal prep. Place the uncooked spinach balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
- Reheating: Reheat spinach balls in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for about 1 minute. Reheating in the oven helps maintain their crispy exterior.
Special Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl: Use a large bowl for mixing all the ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is ideal for baking the spinach balls.
- Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is helpful for lightly brushing olive oil onto each spinach ball before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before using.
2. Can I make spinach balls ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the spinach mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. Can I make spinach balls without cheese?
Yes, simply omit the cheese and add a little extra breadcrumb or seasoning if needed. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrients. Just ensure they’re chopped finely and not too watery.
5. How do I prevent the spinach balls from falling apart?
The eggs and breadcrumbs should act as binders, but if the mixture feels too loose, try adding a bit more breadcrumb or an additional egg to help hold the balls together.
Conclusion
These Best Ever Spinach Balls are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, blending healthy ingredients with a savory, cheesy flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing snacks for the family, or looking for a fun way to incorporate more greens into your meals, spinach balls are the answer. They’re easy to make, customizable, and delicious served warm with your favorite dipping sauces. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, each bite offers a burst of flavor and texture that’s sure to impress. Make these spinach balls for your next event, and watch as they quickly disappear from the plate. Happy cooking, and enjoy this tasty, nutritious treat!
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Best Ever Spinach Balls Appetizer
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 24 spinach balls 1x
Ingredients
For the Spinach Balls:
- 10 oz fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Tzatziki
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- If Using Fresh Spinach: Place the fresh spinach in a steamer basket or saucepan with a splash of water. Steam over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer the spinach to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess water. Chop the spinach finely.
- If Using Frozen Spinach: Thaw the spinach completely, then place it in a fine-mesh strainer or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as possible. Properly draining the spinach is key to ensuring the spinach balls hold together.
- Set Aside: Place the prepared spinach in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the spinach, add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix well until the mixture starts to come together and holds its shape. The eggs help bind the ingredients, creating a cohesive mixture that’s easy to shape into balls.
- Adjust the Texture: If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or an extra egg. If it’s too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs to help absorb the excess moisture.
Step 3: Shape the Spinach Balls
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each spinach ball on the prepared baking sheet. You should have about 24 spinach balls.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each spinach ball with a small amount of olive oil. This helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Spinach Balls
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the spinach balls are firm and lightly golden on the outside. Turn them halfway through baking for even browning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the spinach balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange on a Serving Platter: Transfer the spinach balls to a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Serve the spinach balls with a selection of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or tzatziki. The dipping sauces add flavor and make them even more enjoyable.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 spinach balls
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g