Spinach Bites Recipe 🌿🧀
Overview
If you’re in need of a quick appetizer that’s sure to please a crowd, look no further than these delightful Spinach Bites! This recipe yields a generous batch, perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you need to feed a hungry group. Packed with the goodness of spinach and flavorful herbs, these bites are as nutritious as they are delicious. And the best part? They’re super easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the party!
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes 72-96 bites
Ingredients
- 2 packages (20 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 3 cups herb stuffing mix
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 6 eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your Spinach Bites cook evenly and develop a delicious golden crust.
2. Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, herb stuffing mix, finely chopped onion, beaten eggs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir everything together until well combined and evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
3. Shape into Balls
Using your hands, shape the spinach mixture into small balls, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter. Rolling them between your palms helps to create uniform-sized bites, ensuring even cooking.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the formed spinach balls onto a baking sheet that has been lightly sprayed with vegetable cooking spray. Make sure to space them evenly apart, allowing room for them to expand slightly as they bake.
5. Bake
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the Spinach Bites for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. The edges may become slightly crisp, adding a delightful texture to each bite.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked to perfection, remove the Spinach Bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These little morsels of goodness are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, but they’re just as tasty at room temperature. Arrange them on a platter or serve them in a decorative bowl, and watch as they disappear in no time!
Tips and Variations
- Make Ahead: These Spinach Bites can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply shape the mixture into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven!
- Freezing: These bites freeze exceptionally well, making them a convenient option for busy days. Once baked and cooled, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
- Customize: Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add in some minced garlic for extra flavor, swap the Parmesan cheese for your favorite cheese blend, or incorporate diced ham or cooked bacon for a heartier bite.
- Presentation: Garnish your platter of Spinach Bites with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
With their irresistible flavor and bite-sized appeal, these Spinach Bites are sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this easy and delicious appetizer!
