Name: Spinach Puff Pastry Bites
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 2 large eggs, divided; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 (10×15-inch) sheet puff pastry, thawed

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

The aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air, mingling with the earthy scent of sautéed spinach and garlic. As these Spinach Puff Pastry Bites rise in the oven, their golden tops puff up dramatically, promising a delightful crunch. When you take a bite, the flaky crust gives way to a rich filling of creamy feta and savory parmesan, complemented by vibrant parsley—all mingling in a harmonious dance of flavor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spinach Puff Pastry Bites
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spinach Puff Pastry Bites

These bites remind me of fun Sunday brunches at my friend’s house, where her mom would always whip up a batch. We would gather around the table, laughter echoing as we each grabbed for another perfectly golden morsel. Their irresistible charm makes these Spinach Puff Pastry Bites a hit at gatherings—from cozy family dinners to festive holiday parties. Each bite transports you to that happy memory, making them an essential addition to any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make these delicious treats together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: These Spinach Puff Pastry Bites come together in just about 25 minutes of prep time. Perfect for unexpected guests!
Irresistible Flavor: Imagine the melty feta and sharp parmesan hugging the tender spinach—a combination that excites the palate!
Eye-Catching Appeal: They look impressive and are bite-sized, making them fun and easy to serve at any event.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s a snack, appetizer, or the star of your brunch table, these bite-sized wonders fit any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily customize the filling for gluten-free or vegetarian options, accommodating various dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor, perfect for sautéing veggies. You can use olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
1 medium onion, diced: Enhances the flavor base with sweetness. Shallots or leeks can be delicious substitutes.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant depth. Adjust to your taste, or use garlic powder if you prefer.
1 1/2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained: The star ingredient! It’s packed with nutrients and flavor; fresh spinach can work if you sauté it beforehand.
1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a bright flavor and a nice color contrast. Basil can be a tasty alternative.
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Offers creamy tanginess that pairs beautifully with spinach. Ricotta or cottage cheese can be used for a milder taste.
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty flavor. You could switch it out for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
2 large eggs, divided: One is used for binding, while the other forms a beautiful golden egg wash. Make sure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors. Adjust based on your cheese and personal preference.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a mild heat; feel free to add more for a kick!
1 (10×15-inch) sheet puff pastry, thawed: The flaky base for our bites—store-bought is simple, but you can make your own for a special touch.

How to Make Spinach Puff Pastry Bites

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin pan generously with cooking spray or butter to ensure the puff pastry releases easily once baked. Having everything ready will make the assembly process a breeze!

Drain the Spinach: Thaw your frozen chopped spinach completely. Once thawed, take a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out any excess liquid until it’s nice and dry. This step is vital to avoid soggy pastries, and trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Sauté the Filling: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it’s bubbling. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, toss in your drained spinach, cooking until most of the moisture has evaporated. This should take another 3-5 minutes. Allow this mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.

Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture, chopped parsley, crumbled feta, grated parmesan, one egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Pop the bowl in the fridge for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors while you prep the pastry.

Prepare the Pastry: Dust a clean, lightly floured surface with a thin layer of flour and roll out the thawed puff pastry. Cut the pastry sheet into 12 equal rectangles measuring approximately 3 by 4 inches each. You’ll need to make 3 vertical cuts and 2 horizontal cuts. It doesn’t have to be perfect—rustic is charming!

Assemble the Bites: Gently press one pastry rectangle into each cup of the greased muffin pan. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the spinach filling into each pastry. Then, fold the four corners of the pastry toward the center, pinching them together lightly; don’t worry if the filling is slightly visible—it adds character and allure!

Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg with a fork until well mixed. With a pastry brush, glaze the egg wash evenly over the top of each puff. This step is key to achieving a wonderfully golden finish.

Bake Until Golden: Transfer your muffin pan to the preheated oven, baking them for 25-30 minutes. Watch closely as they puff up and turn a beautiful golden-brown. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden and they’re fragrant, filling your kitchen with magic.

Cool and Serve: Allow the Spinach Puff Pastry Bites to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Use a silicone spatula or a knife to gently loosen each puff and pop them out. These bites are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for serving at parties!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Spinach Puff Pastry Bites at room temperature if you plan to eat them within 1-2 days. For longer storage, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to stock up for future munchies, consider freezing them; place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and the pastry regains its flakiness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid soggy bottoms by omitting excess moisture from your spinach and ensuring it cools before mixing.
Using cold puff pastry straight from the fridge can help maintain its flakiness when baked.
Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge; this allows flavors to meld beautifully before cooking.
If they seem a bit dry after reheating, a squirt of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can refresh their flavor.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to make this recipe your own!

These Spinach Puff Pastry Bites really are the ultimate delectable treat. Not only are they quick to whip up, but they also pack a delightful punch of flavor in every bite. From their crackly exterior to the luscious, cheesy interior, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to play around with the ingredients and make these bites reflect your taste. Enjoy creating a special moment with friends and family over these scrumptious treats!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these Spinach Puff Pastry Bites in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Assemble the pastries just before baking to achieve that fresh-out-of-the-oven flavor!

What can I serve with Spinach Puff Pastry Bites?

These bites pair beautifully with a variety of dips, such as tzatziki or a simple yogurt sauce. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables on the side would make a lovely complement too.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach works wonderfully! Just make sure to sauté it until it’s wilted and the moisture has evaporated; this will give you a similar texture to the frozen spinach and prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to freeze leftovers?

To freeze your Spinach Puff Pastry Bites, let them cool completely, then pack them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This way, they will maintain their delightful flakiness when reheated!