Spinach balls have long been a beloved appetizer, and the Pepperidge Farm version takes this classic to a whole new level. Packed with fresh spinach and a blend of savory ingredients, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or a simple snack. They deliver a deliciously cheesy and herb-infused flavor that’s hard to resist.
We love how easy these spinach balls are to whip up, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. Using Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs adds the perfect texture and helps keep them light yet satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To make our delicious Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms recipe, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients that yield the perfect balance of taste and texture. Below, we categorize the essentials for easy organization.
Main Ingredients
- Fresh spinach (10 ounces, thoroughly washed and chopped)
- Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs (1 ½ cups, the key for exactly the right texture)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, sharp or mild according to preference)
- Eggs (2 large, to bind the mixture)
Seasonings and Flavorings
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon, for a subtle savory depth)
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon, to enhance the overall aroma)
- Salt (¾ teaspoon, or to taste)
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon, freshly ground for optimal flavor)
- Dried parsley (1 tablespoon, for a fresh herb note)
Additional Ingredients
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted, to add richness and help bind)
- Water (2-4 tablespoons, as needed, to maintain moisture without sogginess)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 10 ounces | Washed and chopped |
| Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs | 1 ½ cups | Adds perfect texture |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Sharp or mild |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binds mixture |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds savory depth |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Enhances aroma |
| Salt | ¾ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Dried parsley | 1 tablespoon | Adds herb flavor |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup (optional) | Extra cheesiness |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted, enriches mixture |
| Water | 2-4 tablespoons | Adjust moisture as needed |
By combining these ingredients with care, we ensure every bite of our Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms bursts with cheesy, fresh, and herby goodness.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To create perfect Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms, having the right tools and equipment is essential. These items streamline the process and ensure consistent results every time.
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls
Use medium to large bowls to combine fresh spinach, Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs, cheeses, and seasonings thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of ingredients like bread crumbs, cheese, and spices guarantee balanced flavor and texture.
- Colander or Sieve
Perfect for draining cooked spinach or rinsing fresh spinach leaves to remove excess water, preventing soggy spinach balls.
- Food Processor or Sharp Knife
Chop spinach finely, either by pulsing in a food processor or mincing with a knife for even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula
A sturdy spoon or spatula helps us combine ingredients without overmixing.
For Shaping and Baking
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon
A cookie scoop provides uniform-sized balls, simplifying portion control and baking time.
- Baking Sheet
A rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat prevents sticking and allows even heat circulation.
- Oven
Preheated to the recommended temperature for perfectly baked spinach balls with a golden crust.
- Cooling Rack
Allows spinach balls to cool evenly after baking, avoiding sogginess from trapped steam.
| Tool | Purpose | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine ingredients | Even distribution |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure precise amounts | Balanced flavor and texture |
| Colander/Sieve | Drain extra moisture from spinach | Prevent sogginess |
| Food Processor/Knife | Finely chop spinach | Consistency in mixture |
| Mixing Spoon/Spatula | Combine ingredients | Avoids overmixing |
| Cookie Scoop/Tablespoon | Shape uniform spinach balls | Consistent size and baking |
| Baking Sheet | Bake spinach balls | Even cooking and no sticking |
| Oven | Cook spinach balls | Proper texture and flavor |
| Cooling Rack | Cool baked spinach balls | Maintain crisp exterior |
By assembling these tools ahead of time, we can focus on crafting the best Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms that are crispy on the outside and tender inside, bursting with cheesy, herb-infused flavor.
Prep Work
To make the perfect Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farm, thorough prep work sets the foundation. Getting the spinach ready and mixing ingredients precisely ensures every bite delivers that signature cheesy and herby flavor.
Preparing the Spinach
First, we start with fresh spinach, the star ingredient of our recipe. Follow these steps for optimal texture and flavor:
- Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit.
- Use a colander or sieve to drain excess moisture.
- Chop the spinach finely using a food processor or sharp knife. This helps distribute spinach evenly throughout the mixture and prevents large leafy pieces.
- Place the chopped spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze firmly to remove all excess liquid. Removing moisture is crucial to avoid soggy spinach balls.
- Set the drained and chopped spinach aside for combining with other ingredients.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Rinse | Under cold water | Clean spinach |
| Drain | Use colander or sieve | Remove surface water |
| Chop finely | Food processor or knife | Even distribution |
| Squeeze | Cheesecloth or towel | Remove excess moisture |
Mixing the Ingredients
Next, we combine our key components to deliver that classic Pepperidge Farm Spinach Balls savory punch:
- In a large mixing bowl, crack and whisk the eggs until blended.
- Add Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and optionally grated Parmesan cheese.
- Stir in the well-drained chopped spinach.
- Season generously with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley.
- If using, add softened butter to enrich the mixture.
- Mix gently with a spoon or spatula. Avoid overmixing; just combine ingredients thoroughly for a tender but firm texture.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | 2 large | Binder |
| Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs | 1 cup | Texture |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Flavor and moisture |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (optional) | Additional richness |
| Chopped spinach | 2 cups | Freshness and color |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Savory depth |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | Aroma and flavor |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balance |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | Mild heat |
| Dried parsley | 1 tsp | Herbaceous note |
| Butter | 2 tbsp (optional, softened) | Creaminess |
By meticulously preparing the spinach and mixing ingredients carefully, we build the perfect base that guarantees our spinach balls will bake up with a crispy exterior and tender cheesy interior every time.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create perfect Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms that are crispy outside and tender inside. We’ll guide you through forming, baking, and even suggest alternative cooking methods.
Forming the Spinach Balls
- After thoroughly draining and finely chopping the spinach, transfer it into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the eggs, Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and all seasonings (onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried parsley). If using, add grated Parmesan cheese and melted butter.
- Gently mix all ingredients with a spoon or spatula just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture evenly to ensure uniform size and consistent cooking.
- Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, compact balls approximately 1½ inches in diameter.
“Properly formed spinach balls hold their shape during baking and deliver a perfect balance of moist center and crispy crust.“
Baking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Place the formed spinach balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.
- Bake in the center rack for 25 to 30 minutes or until the exterior turns golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Halfway through baking, rotate the baking sheet for uniform browning.
- Remove from oven and transfer the spinach balls to a cooling rack for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 350°F (175°C) | – | – |
| Bake Spinach Balls | 350°F (175°C) | 25 to 30 mins | Rotate halfway, golden brown crust |
| Cooling | Room temperature | 5 mins | Maintain crisp exterior |
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place spinach balls in a single layer leaving space around each. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even crispiness.
- Pan Frying: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place spinach balls carefully, cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and thoroughly heated. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the experience of our Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms, we suggest several excellent serving ideas that highlight their flavor and texture.
- Classic Appetizer
Serve the spinach balls warm on a decorative platter alongside a variety of dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, and marinara sauce are exceptional choices that complement the cheesy and herb-infused profile.
- Party Platter
Arrange the spinach balls with an assortment of fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks, celery, and cherry tomatoes. Add some crackers and sliced cheeses for a crowd-pleasing snack board.
- Side Dish Pairing
These spinach balls pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or baked fish. Their crispy exterior and tender interior provide a flavorful contrast to simple main dishes.
- Salad Enhancer
Place a few spinach balls atop a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, olives, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. They add a satisfying bite and a boost of protein.
- Comfort Food Combo
Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta for a comforting and wholesome meal.
| Serving Style | Recommended Accompaniments | Flavor Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Appetizer | Ranch, garlic aioli, marinara sauce | Creamy, tangy, herbaceous |
| Party Platter | Raw veggies, crackers, sliced cheeses | Crunchy, fresh, cheesy |
| Side Dish | Grilled chicken, baked fish | Savory, crispy, tender |
| Salad Enhancer | Mixed greens, olives, vinaigrette | Crisp, light, fresh |
| Comfort Combo | Mashed potatoes, pasta | Rich, smooth, hearty |
“Serving our spinach balls warm enhances their delicate balance of flavors and textures, making every bite a memorable delight.“
We recommend garnishing with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few fresh parsley leaves for added color and flavor. Allow guests to customize their experience with a selection of dips and sides to suit their preferences.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Spinach Balls Pepperidge Farms fresh and flavorful, proper make-ahead and storage methods are essential. Following these tips ensures we enjoy their cheesy, herby goodness anytime.
Make-Ahead Preparation
We can prepare the spinach balls up to 24 hours in advance to save time during busy days or gatherings. After mixing the ingredients and forming the balls:
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing evenly.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
This method helps the balls hold their shape and enhances the flavors as they marinate slightly.
Storage After Baking
Once baked, it is important to cool the spinach balls completely on a wire rack before storing to maintain their crispy exterior. We have two options depending on how soon we plan to eat them:
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Place spinach balls in an airtight container; refrigerate |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag |
Tip: To re-crisp spinach balls from the fridge or freezer, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Thawing and Reheating from Frozen
For best results, thaw frozen spinach balls overnight in the refrigerator. If short on time, reheat directly from frozen:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place frozen spinach balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway, until hot and golden.
This restores their texture without drying them out.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Quality
- Avoid storing spinach balls in liquid to prevent sogginess.
- Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy tracking.
By applying these make-ahead and storage tips, we can confidently prepare Pepperidge Farm spinach balls in advance and enjoy their savory, cheesy flavor whenever we like.
Conclusion
Spinach balls made with Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs offer a delicious and versatile appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a quick weeknight snack, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
By following the simple steps and using quality ingredients, we can create spinach balls with the ideal balance of crispy texture and cheesy, herby flavor. Plus, the flexibility in cooking methods and serving options means there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
With a little prep and the right tools, making these spinach balls becomes a stress-free experience that adds a tasty touch to any meal or party spread. Let’s get cooking and savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Pepperidge Farm spinach balls?
You need fresh spinach, Pepperidge Farm bread crumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese and butter for added richness.
How do I prepare fresh spinach for the spinach balls?
Rinse and drain the spinach thoroughly, chop it finely, then squeeze out excess moisture using a colander or by hand to ensure the spinach balls have the right texture.
Can I use a food processor for chopping spinach?
Yes, a food processor can be used to finely chop spinach quickly and evenly, which helps in mixing the ingredients uniformly.
What is the best way to mix the spinach ball ingredients?
Gently combine all ingredients with a spoon or spatula to avoid overmixing, which can make the spinach balls tough instead of tender and firm.
How do I form the spinach balls to prevent them from falling apart?
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the mixture evenly, then gently shape them into balls without compressing too much to keep their shape during baking.
What are the baking instructions for spinach balls?
Preheat the oven, place the spinach balls spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake until golden brown, usually around 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I cook spinach balls using other methods besides baking?
Yes, you can air fry or pan fry spinach balls as alternative cooking methods to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior.
What are some recommended dipping sauces for spinach balls?
Popular choices include ranch dressing, garlic aioli, and marinara sauce, which complement the savory, cheesy flavor of the spinach balls.
How do I store leftover spinach balls for best freshness?
Cool spinach balls completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat spinach balls without losing crispiness?
Reheat them in the oven or air fryer at moderate heat until warmed through and crispy again, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
Can spinach balls be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach balls up to 24 hours before baking and keep them refrigerated, which makes them convenient for busy schedules or entertaining.