If you’re looking for a delightfully flaky, savory treat that packs a punch of Mediterranean flavor, you’re going to absolutely love this Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry Recipe. This dish is an irresistible combination of buttery puff pastry hugging a luscious filling of tangy feta cheese, fresh spinach, and subtle spices that make every bite pure joy. Whether you’re serving these as a party appetizer or a cozy snack, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as charming as they are delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry Recipe comes alive because of its wonderfully simple ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors — from the creamy cheeses to the vibrant green spinach and the golden puff pastry crust.
- Frozen puff pastry sheets (2): Provides the buttery, flaky crust that makes these pastries so irresistible.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, finely chopped): Adds a fresh, slightly earthy taste and vibrant green color.
- Feta cheese (1 cup, crumbled): Brings a tangy, salty creaminess that complements the spinach perfectly.
- Cream cheese (1/4 cup, softened): Makes the filling luxuriously creamy and helps bind everything together.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): A little punch of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and depth of flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances and brightens the filling ingredients.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Offers a warm, subtle note that lifts the filling beautifully.
- Egg (1, beaten): Used for brushing the puff pastry to create a stunning golden finish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the garlic and spinach gently, boosting the flavor.
How to Make Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple setup ensures your pastries bake evenly and won’t stick, freeing you up to focus on the delicious filling.
Step 2: Sauté Spinach and Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until its fragrance fills the kitchen. Then toss in the finely chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 1 to 2 minutes. This quick sauté keeps the spinach tender and vibrant without sogginess. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly, so it doesn’t melt the cheese too soon.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach and garlic with crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg. Mix gently but thoroughly until the filling is creamy and evenly blended. This filling is what will make your pastries bursting with flavor from the first bite.
Step 4: Shape the Pastries
Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each into four equal squares. Spoon the spinach and feta filling right into the center of each square. Then fold the pastry over the filling to form neat triangles or rectangles — whichever shape you prefer. Use a fork to press down the edges firmly, sealing in the cheesy spinach goodness and giving the pastries that classic look.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Arrange the stuffed pastries on your prepared baking sheet spaced evenly apart. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to ensure a glossy, golden crust after baking. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed and golden brown. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving so they hold their shape and the filling sets perfectly.
How to Serve Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking adds delightful extra crunch and flavor. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can be scattered on top after baking for a fresh, colorful touch that brightens the plate and your mood.
Side Dishes
Pair these pastries with a crisp, refreshing salad such as a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. A simple tzatziki dip or a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side also complements the Mediterranean flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve the pastries warm on a wooden board with garnishes and small bowls of dipping sauces. You can even skewer mini versions on decorative picks for an elegant hors d’oeuvre presentation. These little bites are eye-catching and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the puff pastry crisp, avoid stacking them too tightly and consider reheating them individually.
Freezing
You can freeze these pastries either before or after baking. When freezing before baking, assemble the pastries, place them on a tray to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. For already baked ones, wrap tightly before freezing.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pastries in a preheated 350-degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, which can leave the puff pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture thoroughly. Too much moisture can make the pastry soggy and prevent it from puffing properly.
Is nutmeg necessary in the filling?
Nutmeg is optional but highly recommended as it adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the filling that pairs beautifully with spinach and feta. However, if you’re not a fan, you can easily omit it without compromising the overall taste.
Can I make these pastries vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free puff pastry. For the egg wash, you can brush the tops with a bit of plant-based milk or olive oil for browning.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy pastry?
Ensuring your spinach is well-drained and sautéed briefly to remove moisture is key. Also, avoid overfilling the pastry and bake at the proper high temperature so the pastry puffs and crisps quickly.
How long can these pastries be kept at room temperature?
It’s best to enjoy them fresh or keep them at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. After that, refrigeration is necessary to keep the filling safe and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. With its flaky crust and savory, creamy filling, it’s no wonder these pastries are a hit wherever they go. I encourage you to try making them soon and enjoy the cozy, flavorful comfort they bring — you might just find a new favorite to share with friends and family.
Print
Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 pastries
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a savory blend of spinach, creamy feta, and garlic. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these spinach and feta stuffed pastries are easy to prepare and ideal for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 0.25 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg, optional
For Baking
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the finely chopped spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares, making a total of 8 pieces.
- Fill Pastry Squares: Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta filling into the center of each pastry square.
- Seal and Shape: Fold each square over the filling to create triangles or rectangles. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal and prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Place the prepared pastries on the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a shiny, golden finish after baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
- Ensure excess moisture is removed from the spinach after cooking to avoid soggy puff pastry.
- These pastries can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.
- Try sprinkling sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking to add extra flavor and texture.
