Spinach Puffs Recipe

These Spinach Puffs are a delightful and versatile appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion! Imagine flaky, golden brown puff pastry filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, with a hint of smoky bacon and fragrant herbs. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of creamy spinach, salty feta, nutty Parmesan, and smoky bacon creates a delicious and satisfying filling that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks or when you’re short on time.
• Impressive Presentation: These golden brown puffs look beautiful and elegant, making them a great addition to any party or gathering.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can easily make these puffs ahead of time and freeze them for later, making them a convenient option for entertaining.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Thick-cut bacon: Adds a smoky and salty flavor to the filling.
• Reduced-fat cream cheese: Adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor to the filling.
• Eggs: Used to bind the filling and create an egg wash for the pastry.
• Garlic powder, black pepper, and dried oregano: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the filling.
• Frozen spinach: Thawed and thoroughly pressed dry, it adds a healthy dose of greens and a vibrant color.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled and adds a salty and tangy flavor to the filling.
• Parmesan cheese: Finely grated and adds a salty and umami flavor to the filling.
• Frozen puff pastry: Thawed overnight in the refrigerator, it creates a flaky and golden brown crust for the puffs.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Spinach Puffs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) with racks in the upper and lower thirds. Bake the bacon until crispy (you can follow the instructions for Baked Bacon in the original recipe). Let the bacon cool, then chop or crumble it into bits. Spray 18 cups in two standard muffin tins with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the bacon is baking, prepare the filling. Place the cream cheese pieces in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 10-second bursts until softened and melty, but not hot. Stir in 1 egg, garlic powder, black pepper, and oregano until well combined. In a separate bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped bacon. Add the cream cheese mixture to the spinach mixture and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Puffs

Unfold one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll to remove any creases. Cut the pastry sheet into 9 even squares. Line the muffin cups with the pastry squares, pressing the center into the bottom and letting the corners overhang the sides. Fill each pastry-lined muffin cup with a heaping tablespoon of the spinach filling. Bring the four corners of each pastry square together towards the center, covering the filling and lightly pressing them together in the middle.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg to make an egg wash and brush it over the tops of the pastry. Bake the puffs, one muffin tin on each rack, for 21-24 minutes, or until puffy and golden brown. Switch the pans’ positions on the racks halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Remove the muffin tins from the oven and let the puffs cool for 10 minutes before gently loosening them from the muffin cups with a knife. Transfer the puffs to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality puff pastry, cheese, and bacon.
• Don’t overfill the cups: Overfilling the muffin cups can cause the filling to spill over during baking.
• Bake until golden brown: Bake the puffs until they are puffy and deeply golden brown for a crispy and flaky texture.
• Make ahead: You can fully bake the puffs and freeze them for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 375°F oven directly from frozen until warmed through.
• Prepare the filling in advance: The filling can be made up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How to Serve

These Spinach Puffs are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Dipping Sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or aioli.
• Party Platter: Arrange the puffs on a platter with other appetizers for a party or gathering.
• Side Dish: Serve as a side dish with your favorite main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Puffs are great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pastry?
While puff pastry is recommended for its flaky texture, you can experiment with other types of pastry, such as phyllo dough or shortcrust pastry.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
|Yes, you can! Simply omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon substitute.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of cheeses.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as chopped vegetables, herbs, or spices.

This Spinach Puffs Recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and versatile appetizer. With its simple preparation, impressive presentation, and freezer-friendly nature, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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