Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Cheese Puffs

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Spinach Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 puffs
Ingredients: 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1 package (17.3 oz) puff pastry sheets, thawed; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore these Spinach Cheese Puffs! They are not just a hit at Super Bowl parties, but also a delightful treat for any gathering. Each bite is a crispy explosion of creamy cheese and savory spinach, wrapped in a flaky pastry that simply melts in your mouth. The best part? They come together in no time, making them a go-to appetizer whenever I want to impress my friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:37:15.119Z

When I first made these Spinach Cheese Puffs, I was searching for a light yet satisfying appetizer for my Super Bowl gathering. After a few experiments, I discovered that combining fresh spinach with a medley of cheeses really amps up the flavor, while using puff pastry keeps them delightfully crispy. The key is to make sure the spinach is well-drained to avoid sogginess!

I like to serve these puffs with a tangy dipping sauce that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. They disappear in minutes at parties, and my friends will always ask for the recipe. It's such a joy to see everyone enjoy something homemade!

        Why You'll Love These Spinach Cheese Puffs
        Crispy, flaky exterior that packs a punch of flavor
Savory filling with a perfect balance of cheese and spinach
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings

      

Mastering the Pastry

Working with puff pastry can be a game changer in your cooking repertoire. I recommend ensuring that your pastry is thoroughly thawed before using it, as it greatly affects the flakiness of the final product. If it's still too cold, you might end up with a chewy texture instead of that desired airy crispness. Lay the pastry sheets on a floured surface and handle them gently to maintain their structure while cutting them into squares.

When cutting the pastry into squares, precision matters. Each square should be roughly 3 inches in size to provide ample room for filling without risking the edges tearing. A sharp knife or pizza cutter can help achieve clean cuts, which also improves the appearance of your finished puffs. Keep an eye on the time as you prepare; the more you handle the dough, the warmer it gets, which can hinder its ability to puff up nicely in the oven.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is where you can truly customize these Spinach Cheese Puffs. If you're looking to add a bit of zest, consider mixing in some crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This not only enhances the flavor but also serves to contrast with the creaminess of the cheeses. Also, don't hesitate to experiment with herbs like dill or basil for a fragrant touch that complements the spinach beautifully.

Remember, it's crucial to drain the spinach thoroughly before mixing it with the cheeses. Excess moisture can lead to soggy puffs instead of the delightful crispy texture we desire. I typically use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. If you can’t access fresh spinach, frozen is a great alternative, but ensure it’s appropriately thawed and drained to maintain the integrity of your filling.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Spinach Cheese Puffs can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for gatherings. They’re excellent on a platter alongside a dipping sauce like tzatziki or a spicy marinara. I love pairing them with a fresh salad to balance the richness, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures on the plate.

Additionally, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain that crispy texture. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking; just shape and assemble them, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients to make the perfect Spinach Cheese Puffs.

Spinach Cheese Puff Ingredients

1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 package (17.3 oz) puff pastry sheets, thawed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure all ingredients are well-prepped before starting to assemble your puffs!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Spinach Cheese Puffs.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the drained spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Cut them into squares, about 3 inches in size.

Fill the Pastry

Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the dough over to form a triangle and seal the edges with a fork.

Egg Wash

Brush the tops of the puffs with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy them warm!

These puffs are best served hot out of the oven with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped herbs like dill or basil to the filling. You can also swap out the cheeses to experiment with different flavors!

Ingredient Insights

Ricotta cheese is the star of the filling, providing a creamy base that binds the spinach and other cheeses together. It’s light in flavor, which allows the spinach to shine through while complimenting the richness of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, cottage cheese can be a decent substitute, though it will alter the texture slightly, making it less creamy.

Parmesan cheese adds a distinct savory note to the filling, and freshly grated is highly recommended for maximum flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan can lack some depth, so if you choose that option, be mindful to use a bit more than the recipe suggests to make up for the difference.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with puff pastry is that it may not puff as expected. This can result from the pastry being too warm before baking or even from the oven not being hot enough. Always ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) and try to minimize the time the pastry is out before baking to keep it cold. If it starts to soften, pop it back in the refrigerator briefly before baking.

Another potential hurdle is sealing the edges of your puffs. If you notice they are leaking filling during baking, it may be because they weren't properly sealed. A good rule of thumb is to wet your finger with water and run it along the edges before pressing them together with a fork. This helps create a seal that holds during the baking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Simply sauté it until wilted and ensure it's completely drained before mixing it into the cheese filling.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the puffs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What dipping sauce goes best with these puffs?

A simple yogurt dip or a spicy marinara sauce pairs wonderfully with these cheesy puffs.

→ Are these puffs freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked puffs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then store them in a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen!