Spinach Balls
Spinach Balls are savory, bite-sized snacks made with tender spinach, parmesan cheese, and seasoned stuffing that bake into golden, pillowy treats loved by all ages. The aroma of buttery herbs fills your kitchen, and when you bite in, you’ll get crispy edges with a soft, comforting center that feels like pure home-cooked warmth.
I remember my mom making a tray of these for every family gathering watching little hands sneak them off the plate before dinner was ever served! These are extra special because you can prep them ahead, freeze for busy days, or swap in gluten-free or dairy-free options no stress, just fuss-free comfort. I can’t wait for you to try them let’s make a batch that brings everyone together around the table.
Why You’ll Love These Savory Bites
- Golden and irresistible: Each spinach ball bakes up with a crisp, toasty shell that gives way to a soft, pillowy center every bite is pure comfort.
- Gathering-ready goodness: These cozy bites are just as welcome at a lazy Sunday brunch as they are passed around at your favorite holiday get-together.
- Family-friendly and shareable: Spinach balls please picky eaters and can be doubled for crowds plus, they’re such fun to make together in the kitchen.
- Prep-ahead magic: Pop a batch in the freezer and have homemade snacks or party apps ready at a moment’s notice, no stress or fuss.
- Endlessly comforting: Biting into one feels like coming home warm, cheesy, and just a little nostalgic, they satisfy every craving for something savory and feel-good.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chopped Spinach – The star of the show, bringing earthy flavor and vibrant green color. Frozen chopped spinach is convenient and easy to use.
- Stuffing Mix – Adds savory depth and the perfect soft-yet-crispy texture inside. Use seasoned stuffing for extra flavor or swap with gluten-free mix to keep it friendly for all.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers salty, nutty richness and helps everything meld together as they bake to golden, cheesy goodness.
- Butter – Melted and cooled, it gives the spinach balls their signature moistness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Eggs – These act as the binder, holding everything into neat, tender bites.
- Yellow Onion – Finely diced for gentle sweetness and a bit of aromatic punch in every bite.
- Italian Seasoning – This blend weaves together cozy, herbaceous notes, making the whole batch extra comforting.
- Garlic Powder – A pantry staple, it infuses a mellow garlicky warmth without overwhelming.
- Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Options – You can use gluten-free stuffing or dairy-free cheese to fit special diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How to Make Spinach Balls
- Prep Your Ingredients
Melt your butter and let it cool. Cook the spinach when it’s cooled down enough to handle, squeeze out every drop of moisture. The drier the spinach, the crispier your balls will be. - Mix Everything Together
In a big, roomy bowl, toss in the drained spinach, stuffing mix, aromatic onion, seasonings, parmesan, eggs, and the melted butter. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix until it looks evenly moistened. The mixture should feel damp but not soggy, a bit like teddy bear stuffing. - Roll Your Balls
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, grab a scoopful and gently roll between your palms. You want about the size of a golf ball compact, but not dense.
prompt3: spinach-balls-rolling.webp - Arrange for Baking or Air-Frying
Line your baking sheet with parchment or foil. Place the balls spaced apart so they get that golden crust. For air-frying, nestle them in a preheated basket. - Bake or Air-Fry Until Perfectly Golden
Bake until they’re just turning golden and feel set when you nudge them. Air-frying? You’ll need a few minutes less for that beautiful crisp. If you love these cozy bites, try my Spinach Garlic Meatballs for another comforting twist!
Tips for the Best Results
- Squeeze Spinach Really Well: Make sure your spinach is as dry as possible before mixing. A good squeeze (think: getting out every last drop) will help the balls stay crisp and not soggy.
- Mix Until Just Combined: Over-mixing can make the texture tough, so gently fold everything together until just mixed for a tender, bite-sized result.
- Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniformity: A medium cookie scoop helps create perfectly round, evenly sized balls, giving you that satisfying batch of golden orbs.
- Chill Before Baking: If time allows, a quick chill in the fridge will firm up the mixture, making shaping a breeze and helping them keep their shape as they bake.
- Freeze on a Sheet First: To prep ahead, freeze unbaked spinach balls on a sheet until solid, then transfer to a bag for longer-term storage. Bake straight from frozen for party-ready snacks anytime!
Variations You Can Try
Cheesy Twists: Switch up the flavor by using crumbled feta, melty mozzarella, or sharp cheddar instead of (or alongside) parmesan. Each cheese brings a slightly different richness think tangy, stretchy, or extra-savory.
Herb & Spice Boosts: Toss in fresh chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for a garden-fresh lift, or add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes if you’re craving a touch of warmth and color.
Protein Power: Stir in finely diced cooked chicken, crisp bacon bits, or even canned tuna to turn these bites into hearty, lunchbox-ready snacks.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options: Use your favorite gluten-free stuffing mix or swap for gluten-free panko. Dairy-free shreds work beautifully in place of cheese just keep an eye on seasoning.
Make It a Meal: Love these flavors? Try them in casserole form with the Cheesy Chicken Spinach Pasta, which feels like a big, warm hug on busy nights.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge Freshness: Let spinach balls cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay crisp and delicious for up to four days.
- Freezer Friendly: For longer storage, layer cooled spinach balls between sheets of parchment in a freezer bag or container. Freeze up to two months they’re perfect for last-minute snacks!
- Reheating for Crispiness: To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, reheat spinach balls in a hot oven or air fryer until warmed through and golden at the edges.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prep and shape the balls in advance, keep them chilled (uncooked) on a tray, and bake right before guests arrive.
- More Make-Ahead Ideas: Try pairing with Spinach Egg Bake for an easy, comforting brunch spread.
Perfect Pairings
- Cozy dip companions: Spinach Balls are just begging to be dipped! Try them with warm marinara, garlic aioli, or a creamy ranch for that ultimate comfort snack.
- Fresh and crunchy salads: Balance out the cozy richness with a crisp salad think arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a splash of lemon. It’s like a breath of fresh air on your plate.
- Pasta night perfection: Pair your savory bites with Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese for a dreamy, carb-loving dinner that makes everyone sigh with happiness.
- Soul-soothing soups and casseroles: Nestle a few alongside a bowl of tomato soup or serve with Creamy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Casserole for the coziest meal.
- Kid-approved lunches and easy entertaining: Pop Spinach Balls into lunchboxes or set them out on a big party platter everyone will want just one more.
Savory Spinach Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave, then set aside to cool.
- Cook the chopped spinach according to package instructions (usually about 5-7 minutes). Let cool, then drain and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a colander or mesh bag.
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, stuffing mix, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, finely diced onion, beaten eggs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix until thoroughly combined.
- With a spoon or medium cookie scoop, scoop small portions of the mixture and gently roll into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place on a parchment or non-stick foil lined baking sheet, spacing apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I freeze spinach balls before baking them?
Absolutely! Just roll and shape your spinach balls, then pop them onto a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Store in a freezer bag and bake straight from frozen no thawing needed. It’s a wonderful little trick for having warm, homey snacks ready at a moment’s notice.
What can I use instead of stuffing mix in spinach balls?
If you don’t have stuffing mix, try using panko breadcrumbs or even crumbled crackers. Both give a delightfully tender texture with a little crunch. For gluten-free needs, your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly just season them up for extra coziness.
How do you keep spinach balls from getting soggy?
The secret is squeezing every drop of liquid from your spinach before mixing. I like to wrap mine in a clean towel and give it a good squeeze (it’s oddly satisfying!). This helps the outside bake up beautifully crisp while keeping the inside fluffy, not wet.
Can I make spinach balls ahead of time for a party?
You sure can! Roll and chill the unbaked spinach balls a few hours (or even a day) before your gathering. When guests arrive, just pop them into the oven hot, golden bites in no time. It’s a make-ahead move that lets you relax and enjoy every moment.
