When it comes to crowd-pleasing appetizers, Pepperidge Farm spinach balls are a timeless classic. These bite-sized treats combine the earthy goodness of spinach with savory breadcrumbs and a hint of cheesy richness, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a quick snack. They’re easy to prepare and pack a punch of flavor in every bite.
This recipe has been a favorite for decades, and there’s something nostalgic about the way it brings people together. Whether we’re hosting a holiday gathering or craving a comforting appetizer, these spinach balls never disappoint. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak some greens into our diet without sacrificing taste.
Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls Recipe
Let’s dive into crafting these delightfully nostalgic Pepperidge Farm spinach balls. This recipe brings together vibrant spinach, savory breadcrumbs, and a cheesy twist for an unbeatable appetizer. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create these bite-sized treats effortlessly.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make approximately 24 spinach balls:
- 2 (10 oz) packages of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 2 cups of Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix, finely crushed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup butter, melted
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach
Begin by thoroughly squeezing the excess water from the thawed spinach. It’s essential to remove as much moisture as possible to ensure the balls hold their shape.
- Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, crushed Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix, chopped onion, lightly beaten eggs, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Mix everything well to create a uniform mixture.
- Incorporate the Butter
Gradually pour in the melted butter while mixing, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Add salt and black pepper to taste at this stage.
- Shape the Spinach Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat.
- Preheat and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the spinach balls for 20–25 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly golden on the outside.
- Cool and Serve
Let the spinach balls cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or marinara.
Quick Tips for Success
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray or brush the spinach balls with olive oil before baking.
- Make the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate for convenience, then bake fresh when ready to serve.
- Leftovers? Freeze the unbaked spinach balls in an airtight container. When needed, bake directly from frozen at 350°F, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Nutritional Overview
Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving (2 spinach balls):
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 7g |
With this Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls Recipe, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s simple to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
Here’s everything we’ll need to make these delightful Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls. Make sure to use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Let’s gather:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix
Ensure it’s measured and lightly crushed for easier mixing. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Adds a subtle pop of flavor. - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
Lightly beaten to help bind the mixture together.
Main Ingredients
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach
Thawed and drained thoroughly by squeezing out excess moisture. - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Use freshly grated for maximum creaminess and rich flavor. - 1 small onion, finely chopped
Optional Add-Ons (Customization)
- 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
Optional for added richness. - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For those who enjoy a spicier kick.
By keeping your ingredients prepped and measured, assembling this recipe becomes a smooth and enjoyable process.
Tools And Equipment
To make Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls, we need a few essential tools and kitchen equipment to ensure the preparation process is smooth and efficient. Here’s a list of the necessary items:
Essential Tools:
- Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for combining the ingredients and another medium-sized one for prepping smaller components like eggs or breadcrumbs.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of stuffing mix, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
- Fine Mesh Strainer or Cheesecloth: For squeezing excess moisture out of the thawed spinach. This step is crucial for achieving the proper texture.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: To mix all the ingredients without overworking the spinach.
- Baking Sheet: A standard-sized baking sheet to hold approximately 24 spinach balls.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking while ensuring easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: For portioning the mixture into uniformly sized balls.
- Non-Stick Spray: To lightly grease the parchment paper or baking mat if needed.
Optional Equipment:
- Food Processor: If you wish to grind the stuffing mix into finer breadcrumbs for a smoother consistency.
- Cooling Rack: For cooling the spinach balls after baking to maintain their crisp exterior evenly.
- Small Bowl for Dipping Sauce: Perfect for serving alongside this finger food.
Recommended Table for Tool Checklist:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine and prepare ingredients |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Precise measurement of all components |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Drain and squeeze moisture from spinach |
| Baking Sheet | Bake the spinach balls evenly |
| Parchment Paper | Prevent sticking and ease cleanup |
| Cookie Scoop | Portion mixture into uniform sizes |
Directions
Let’s get started on making these classic Pepperidge Farm spinach balls. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof result every time.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Thaw a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach completely. Place it in a fine mesh strainer and press down with the back of a spoon to squeeze out all excess moisture. Alternatively, use a clean kitchen towel to wring out the spinach until it’s as dry as possible. This step is crucial for the spinach balls’ texture.
- Finely chop 1 small onion or measure about 1 cup. Set it aside.
Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 2 cups Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix
- The prepared, drained spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- The finely chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs until fully beaten.
- Pour the beaten eggs over the spinach mixture and stir everything together. The mixture should form a cohesive, sticky dough. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of melted butter or water until it binds together.
Form
- Using clean hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it into a ball. Place each spinach ball about 1 inch apart on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- If you want evenly sized balls, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon measure for precision.
Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the spinach balls are golden-brown and firm to the touch.
- Halfway through baking, rotate the sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the tray from the oven and let the spinach balls rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- If desired, transfer them to a cooling rack to maintain crispness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time while ensuring they remain just as flavorful for your upcoming gathering. Here’s how to plan and execute the make-ahead steps seamlessly:
1. Freezing Unbaked Spinach Balls
Once we have formed the spinach mixture into balls, it’s easy to prepare them for freezing:
- Place the shaped spinach balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet (single layer) to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the balls for 1-2 hours or until they are completely firm.
- Transfer the frozen spinach balls to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date for reference. These can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve, there’s no need to thaw. Preheat the oven to the specified temperature and bake the frozen spinach balls, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
2. Refrigerating Ahead
For shorter storage, we can refrigerate the formed but unbaked spinach balls:
- Arrange them in a single layer on a tray or plate, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- On the day of baking, preheat the oven and bake directly as outlined in the recipe instructions.
3. Reheating Baked Spinach Balls
Already baked spinach balls can be reheated for convenience:
- Allow the fully baked spinach balls to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the spinach balls on a baking sheet, covering them lightly with foil to retain moisture, and warm them for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
To maintain crispiness, transfer the reheated spinach balls to a cooling rack immediately after they come out of the oven.
Storage and Reheating Summary
| Storage Method | Timeframe | Reheating Process |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing (Unbaked) | Up to 3 months | Bake directly from frozen, extra 5-7 mins |
| Refrigerating (Unbaked) | Up to 24 hours | Bake as per recipe instructions |
| Baked Spinach Balls | Up to 3 days | Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-12 mins |
By following these simple make-ahead tips, we can ensure that these flavorful Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls are always ready to impress, no matter the occasion.
Serving Suggestions
These Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect addition to various occasions. Here’s how we can elevate their serving experience with some creative ideas:
1. Appetizer Platters
Pair these savory spinach balls with an assortment of dipping sauces to create a crowd-pleasing appetizer spread. Classic dips like ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or a tangy Greek yogurt tzatziki work wonderfully.
2. Party or Potluck Favorite
Serve these bite-sized favorites on a large platter lined with crisp lettuce leaves for an elegant presentation. Insert cocktail toothpicks into each ball to make them easy and mess-free to grab, ensuring they’re a hit at any gathering or potluck.
3. Holiday Table
Add these spinach balls to your holiday appetizer lineup, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. Their green color and golden crust create a festive appearance. Arrange them in the shape of a wreath and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and cherry tomatoes for a holiday-themed touch.
4. Side Dish Option
These spinach balls can also double as an impressive side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a hearty pasta. Their blend of herbs and Parmesan complements a variety of main courses.
5. Customizable Accompaniments
For a more indulgent pairing, serve them with a side of creamy cheese sauce or drizzle them with a light béchamel. Alternatively, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds just the right kick for spice lovers.
6. Soup Toppers
Place a few warm spinach balls in a bowl of brothy soups, like vegetable soup or chicken consommé, to add a flavorful and herbaceous punch, making the meal heartier.
Summary Table for Serving Ideas
| Occasion | Serving Suggestion | Enhancements/Accompaniments |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizer Platters | Serve with dipping sauces | Marinara, ranch, tzatziki, honey mustard |
| Party/Potluck | Use toothpicks for easy grabbing | Present on a leafy platter |
| Holiday Table | Arrange in a festive wreath shape | Decorate with rosemary and tomatoes |
| Side Dish | Pair with roasted or grilled proteins | Highlight their texture and flavor |
| Custom Accompaniments | Offer cheese or béchamel sauce | Add spice with red pepper flakes |
| Soup Toppers | Add to brothy soups like chicken consommé | Enhances heartiness and flavor |
Conclusion
Pepperidge Farm spinach balls are a timeless appetizer that brings flavor, versatility, and a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a holiday spread, or simply craving a savory snack, these spinach balls deliver on taste and convenience.
With their simple preparation, customizable options, and easy storage methods, they’re a go-to recipe for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Paired with your favorite dips or served as a side, they’re sure to impress every time. Let’s keep this classic recipe alive and share the joy of spinach balls with friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pepperidge Farm spinach balls made of?
Pepperidge Farm spinach balls are made with a combination of frozen chopped spinach, Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, finely chopped onion, and optional seasonings. These ingredients are mixed together, shaped into balls, and baked to create a flavorful and wholesome appetizer.
Can I make spinach balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them ahead! Unbaked spinach balls can be frozen for up to 3 months or refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Baked spinach balls can also be reheated for convenience if made in advance.
How do I store leftover spinach balls?
Store baked spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
Can I customize the spinach ball recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding melted butter, red pepper flakes for heat, or extra herbs like parsley. Dipping sauces or adjustments to the filling can also be made to suit your taste preferences.
What equipment do I need to make spinach balls?
To make spinach balls, you’ll need basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls, measuring utensils, a fine mesh strainer (to drain the spinach), a baking sheet, and parchment paper. Optional tools include a food processor for finer breadcrumbs and a cooling rack.
How do I ensure spinach balls are crispy?
For extra crispiness, properly drain the spinach to avoid excess moisture and bake the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cooking them until golden-brown ensures a crunchy texture. You can also bake them for an additional 1-2 minutes if desired.
Are spinach balls a healthy appetizer?
Spinach balls are a balanced appetizer with greens like spinach, protein from eggs and cheese, and whole-grain breadcrumbs. They’re a satisfying snack option when made with high-quality ingredients and accompanied by healthy serving portions.
Can I freeze spinach balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked spinach balls for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What are some creative ways to serve spinach balls?
Serve spinach balls with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch, arrange them on lettuce-lined platters for parties, or incorporate them into holiday-themed displays. They also work well as a side dish or in soups for added flavor.
How many spinach balls does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 24 spinach balls, making it perfect for appetizers at gatherings or as a snack to share with friends and family.