Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both delicious and nostalgic? Look no further than Spinach Balls Butter Parmesan! These savory little morsels are a hit at any gathering, from family parties to potlucks. Packed with the goodness of spinach, the sharpness of Parmesan, and the richness of butter, these spinach balls are sure to be a favorite at your table.

I have fond memories of sneaking a spinach ball or two as a child whenever my mom made them for family get-togethers. Now, I love carrying on the tradition and seeing my nieces enjoy these tasty bites just as much. The combination of flavors and textures in these spinach balls is simply irresistible, making them a must-have recipe for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of these delightful Spinach Balls Butter Parmesan for your next gathering!

Quick Benefits

• Nutrient-packed: Packed with spinach, eggs, and cheese, these spinach balls offer a healthy dose of essential nutrients.
• Versatile: Can be served as an appetizer, snack, or added to a meal, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.
• Make-ahead: Can be assembled and baked in advance, and leftovers can be frozen for easy midweek snacks.
• Family favorite: A classic dish that has stood the test of time, loved by both kids and adults, making it a staple for family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan Recipe

• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with spinach, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, these spinach balls are not only flavorful but also offer a healthy dose of nutrients.
• Family-Friendly: A nostalgic recipe that brings back memories of family gatherings and childhood, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Can be served as an appetizer for parties, a snack for midweek cravings, or as a fun addition to a lunchbox, offering flexibility for various occasions.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping ahead and baking just before serving, making it convenient for busy schedules or planned events.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze uncooked spinach balls for quick and easy snacks or appetizers, allowing for fuss-free meal prep and effortless midweek eats.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses, herbs, or vegetables, allowing for personalization based on taste preferences or seasonal ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A beloved recipe that tends to disappear quickly at gatherings, ensuring that your guests will be asking for more and requesting the recipe.
• Perfect Pairings: Goes well with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli, adding extra layers of flavor and creaminess to each bite.

Ingredients for Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan

Main Mixture

• 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Pro Tips for Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan

To ensure the spinach balls have the right texture, be sure to thoroughly drain the spinach before mixing it with the other ingredients. Mixing the spinach well with the eggs, breadcrumbs, and cheese will help create a cohesive texture for the balls.

Consider assembling and baking the spinach balls in advance, as they can be easily reheated in the oven just before serving for the best results. This way, you can save time and stress when preparing for your gathering.

For a fresh twist, sauté and chop fresh spinach instead of using frozen spinach. Be sure to remove excess moisture to achieve the best texture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano if you’re looking for a variation in flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.

Step 2: Create Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, spinach, melted butter, garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, salt, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and diced onion. Mix well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.

Step 3: Shape Balls

Scoop the mixture using a 1 1/2-tablespoon scoop or round tablespoon, roll into 1-inch diameter balls, and place them evenly on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the spinach balls are golden brown on the outside.

Step 5: Serving

Let it cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the delicious Spinach Balls Butter Parmesan, it is best to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept this way for up to four days. When you are ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the spinach balls in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F for about eight minutes or until they are warmed through. If you are making the spinach balls ahead of time, you can shape them and refrigerate them on a baking sheet. Bake them just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

For those looking to freeze the Spinach Balls Butter Parmesan, you can do so by arranging the uncooked spinach balls on a baking sheet and freezing them until firm. Afterward, transfer them to a resealable bag for longer storage. When you are ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen spinach balls, adding an extra five to seven minutes to the cooking time. This method allows you to have a convenient and delicious snack or appetizer ready to enjoy whenever you need it.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a similar salty sharpness. This swap will still provide a delicious cheesy flavor to the spinach balls.

For a different twist, you can use fresh kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach. Just make sure to chop and drain them well to maintain the right texture in the spinach balls. This substitution can add a unique flavor profile while still keeping the dish nutritious and flavorful.

If you need a dairy-free option, consider using olive oil instead of butter and nutritional yeast in place of cheese. While this substitution may result in a slightly softer texture, it can still provide a savory and satisfying flavor to the spinach balls.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning these spinach balls into a hearty and satisfying meal by nestling them on a bed of creamy garlic mashed potatoes and drizzling with a tangy lemon aioli. The contrast of the crispy spinach balls against the velvety potatoes and zesty aioli will create a delicious and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Another fun way to serve these spinach balls is to skewer them with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and cubes of feta cheese to create vibrant and colorful appetizer skewers. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping to add a refreshing and Mediterranean twist to your party spread. This presentation not only looks beautiful but also allows guests to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in each bite.

FAQs for Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan

Can I make these spinach balls in advance?

Yes, you can assemble and bake the spinach balls in advance. Reheat them in the oven briefly before serving for best results.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in this recipe?

Yes, you can sauté and chop fresh spinach before mixing it. Make sure to remove excess moisture for the best texture.

What other cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?

Parmesan offers sharpness, but other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano can be used for a variation in this recipe.

What are some recommended dips for serving these spinach balls?

Marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli can enhance the flavors and add creamy or tangy notes to each bite of the spinach balls.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delicious Spinach Balls Butter Parmesan with your loved ones. The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or just a weekday snack. The memories and joy these spinach balls bring to my table are truly special, and I hope they do the same for you.

Remember to get creative with your variations and accompaniments to make this recipe your own. Whether you stick to the classic parmesan or try out different cheeses, herbs, or dipping sauces, the possibilities are endless. Be sure to share your experiences with this recipe and spread the love for these delightful spinach balls. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Cheesy Spinach Balls with Butter and Parmesan

Buttery and savory Spinach Balls with Parmesan – a retro party favorite with a delicious spin perfect for gatherings and meal prepping.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 min

Cook Time30 min

Total Time50 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings24 Servings (About 24 spinach balls)

Ingredients

Main Mixture

• 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Create Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, spinach, melted butter, garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, salt, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and diced onion. Mix well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
3. Shape Balls: Scoop the mixture using a 1 1/2-tablespoon scoop or round tablespoon, roll into 1-inch diameter balls, and place them evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the spinach balls are golden brown on the outside.
5. Serving: Let it cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.