Nothing elevates a gathering or a cozy night at home like a tray of warm, golden puff pastries filled with a delicious spinach and cheese mixture. This recipe for Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Puff Pastry is perfect for any occasion. It combines a creamy, savory filling with flaky, buttery layers that will have everyone reaching for more. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only addictive but also visually appealing.
This recipe is highly adaptable; you can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or cheeses. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for both experienced cooks and beginners. Let’s dive into the details to prepare this crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a favorite.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 pieces
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your pastries bake evenly and don’t stick. - Prepare the Spinach Filling
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. If you’re using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). For frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and thoroughly drained before adding it to the pan. - Mix the Cheeses and Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste. - Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to smooth any creases. Cut the pastry into 6-8 equal squares, depending on the desired size of your pastries. - Fill and Fold the Pastries
Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling onto one half of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the filling to leak during baking. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, and press the edges together with a fork to seal. - Brush with Egg Wash and Add Sesame Seeds
Brush the tops of each pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish. For extra flavor and a bit of crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds over the pastries. - Bake the Pastries
Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary. - Cool and Serve
Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Presentation:
Serve these pastries on a wooden board or a decorative platter, garnished with fresh herbs for an inviting presentation. They pair well with a simple side salad or a dip like tzatziki or marinara sauce. The flaky layers and creamy filling make these pastries not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for any social gathering or as an indulgent snack at home.
This spinach and cheese stuffed pastry recipe is sure to win over anyone who tries it. The combination of creamy cheese, savory spinach, and flaky pastry makes these pastries a true delight. Whether you’re preparing them as appetizers for a party or enjoying them as a satisfying snack, they’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
What makes this recipe so appealing is its adaptability. You can experiment with different cheeses, add herbs like dill or parsley, or even incorporate a dash of spice to suit your taste. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that looks and tastes impressive. Next time you need a quick yet delicious addition to your menu, try these spinach stuffed pastries, and watch them disappear from the plate!