Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastries are everything you want in a snack—flaky, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. The balance of ricotta and Parmesan cheeses mixed with the fresh spinach creates a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the golden, puffed-up pastry. These pastries are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal, a festive appetizer, or a simple afternoon snack. The best part? They’re so easy to make, you’ll be enjoying them in no time!

Ingredients

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a medium bowl, mix the cooked spinach with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Pastries: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into 4 squares (8 total). Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture onto the center of each square. Fold the pastry over to form a rectangle or triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
Bake: Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Serve: Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 pastries
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Herbs: Mix in some fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or dill for added flavor.
Use Different Cheese: Substitute ricotta with feta or cream cheese for a creamier texture and different flavor profile.
Add Meat: For a heartier pastry, add cooked ground meat, such as beef, chicken, or lamb, to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to retain the flakiness of the pastry. You can also microwave for about 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time, but the pastry may lose some crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before using it in the filling.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pastries ahead of time, assemble them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Simply brush with the egg wash and bake when needed.

3. How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

Ensure the spinach is well-drained before adding it to the filling. You can also bake the pastries immediately after assembling for the best texture.

4. Can I freeze the pastries before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pastries. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

5. Can I use a different type of pastry dough?

While puff pastry is the best choice for this recipe, you can use phyllo dough for a thinner, crispier texture, or shortcrust pastry for a more rustic feel.

6. Can I add more cheese?

Yes, feel free to increase the amount of cheese or use different types, such as mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar, to customize the flavor.

7. What should I serve with these pastries?

These pastries pair beautifully with a simple side salad or a fresh dipping sauce like tzatziki, marinara, or garlic butter.

8. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make these pastries vegan, use a dairy-free puff pastry and substitute the ricotta and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives. You can also use a flax egg for the egg wash.

9. Can I bake these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake these pastries in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

10. What other vegetables can I add to the filling?

You can add other vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, or artichokes to the spinach filling for additional flavor and texture.

Conclusion

These Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastries are a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. With their flaky texture and creamy filling, they make a perfect appetizer, snack, or light meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy treat, these pastries are a must-try!

Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastry

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These delicious Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastries are the perfect blend of flaky puff pastry filled with melted cheese and spinach, ideal for snacks, appetizers, or light meals. These savory pastries are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet, add spinach, and cook until wilted (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Combine spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Roll out puff pastry and cut into 8 squares. Place a spoonful of spinach mixture on each square.
Fold pastry over, seal edges with a fork, and place on a baking sheet.
Brush with egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

You can use parchment paper for easy cleanup. These pastries are perfect warm or at room temperature.