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There is something absolutely delightful about these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Recipe that makes them a must-have appetizer or snack for any occasion. Bursting with the savory richness of crumbled bacon, tangy feta, and tender spinach, all wrapped up in layers of golden, flaky puff pastry, these bites offer an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. If you love finger foods that are both elegant and comforting, this recipe is a guaranteed winner every time you serve it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this recipe is a breeze, thanks to a handful of simple yet irresistibly flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crispy notes that make the dish so memorable.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon lends a smoky crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
- Reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel): This smooth base brings richness without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Eggs: Two large eggs, one for the filling and one for brushing the pastry, help bind everything and create that beautiful golden finish.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth to the savory profile of the filling.
- Ground black pepper: Just the right amount for a little peppery kick.
- Dried oregano: Brings an herbal earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the feta and spinach.
- Frozen spinach: When thawed and drained well, it provides a fresh, leafy texture and vibrant color.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta injects that signature tang and creaminess everyone adores.
- Parmesan cheese: Finely grated Parmesan adds a nutty, savory layer to the mix.
- Frozen puff pastry sheets: These flaky sheets create the perfect crispy, buttery vessel for the filling.
How to Make Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Cups
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and positioning racks in the upper and lower thirds for even baking. Prepare 18 muffin cups by lining them with paper liners or greasing well with nonstick spray. Cook your bacon ahead of time until crisp and crumble it; this will add that essential smoky crunch to the bites.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
Soften the cream cheese by microwaving it in short bursts—this makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with one beaten egg, garlic powder, black pepper, and oregano. In a separate bowl, mix together the well-drained spinach, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, and crumbled bacon. Fold the cream cheese mixture into this bowl until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and beautifully blended.
Step 3: Prepare and Fill Pastry Cups
Take your puff pastry sheets and roll them out gently on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares. Carefully press each square into the muffin cups, allowing the corners to overhang slightly—this creates a lovely, rustic pouch. Spoon the spinach and feta filling generously into each pastry cup, making sure every bite will be full of flavor.
Step 4: Fold Pastry and Add Egg Wash
Bring the four corners of each pastry square together over the filling and press lightly in the center to seal. This step helps hold everything inside while the pastry puffs beautifully. Brush the tops with the beaten remaining egg to achieve a shiny, golden-brown finish once baked.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Pufft
Bake your spinach and feta puff pastry bites with bacon recipe for 21 to 24 minutes, switching the rack positions halfway through the roasting time to ensure even cooking. Look out for the puff pastry to become gorgeously golden and puffed up; the smell alone will have you eagerly waiting to indulge.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the bites to cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes before removing them. This little cooling period helps the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle and even more enjoyable to eat warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a touch of finely grated lemon zest on top just before serving. These garnishes add a burst of fresh color and a mild brightness that enhances the savory flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these bites with a crisp, lightly dressed green salad or a tangy tomato salad to balance their richness. A refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip or a simple garlic aioli also complements them beautifully, giving you a complete and satisfying snack or appetizer experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter lined with fresh greens. You can also group them on mini skewers alongside cherry tomatoes and olives for a party-friendly finger food that’s both charming and easy to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spinach and feta puff pastry bites store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their flavor and texture nicely, making them a convenient option for quick snacks or a grab-and-go lunch.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked bites on a tray at first to avoid sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, they can last up to 2 months, perfect for preparing ahead of time for parties or busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, place the bites on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that irresistible flaky texture of the puff pastry.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, sauté it briefly until wilted, then drain any excess moisture thoroughly before mixing it into the filling. This helps prevent soggy pastry.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to maintain a savory, satisfying flavor profile.
What type of feta is best?
A good-quality crumbled feta that isn’t too salty works best. Sheep’s milk feta tends to be creamier and less tangy, which balances beautifully with the other ingredients.
Can I make these bites smaller or larger?
Definitely! Use mini muffin tins for bite-sized versions perfect for parties, or larger tins if you want more substantial pastries for snacks or light meals.
How do I ensure the puff pastry stays crispy?
Make sure your puff pastry is well-chilled before baking and avoid adding too much moisture in the filling. Also, reheating in the oven rather than the microwave keeps the pastry flaky and crisp.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about sharing these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Recipe—it’s like handing over little pockets of happiness that combine fresh ingredients and comforting flavors in one delightful package. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, making snacks for family, or just craving something special, these bites are incredibly easy to make and impress. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear—you might just find yourself making them on repeat for every occasion!
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Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These flavorful Spinach Puffs combine creamy cheeses, crispy bacon, and tender spinach wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect as a savory appetizer or snack, they bake to golden perfection and offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes in every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (about 2 ounces)
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 ounce)
Pastry and Finish
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry (9- or 10-inch), thawed overnight in the refrigerator
- 1 large egg (for egg wash, beaten)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Cups: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), arranging racks in the upper and lower thirds. Line 18 muffin cups with paper liners or grease them with nonstick spray. Cook the bacon until crisp and crumble it finely.
- Make the Filling: Microwave the reduced-fat cream cheese in short bursts until softened. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with one egg, garlic powder, black pepper, and dried oregano. In a separate bowl, combine the thawed, squeezed-dry spinach, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, and crumbled bacon. Add the cream cheese mixture to the spinach mixture and stir thoroughly until well blended.
- Prepare Puff Pastry Cups: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut each sheet into nine equal squares, totaling eighteen squares. Line each muffin cup with a pastry square, pressing the dough into the bottom and letting the corners hang over the edges.
- Fill Pastry Cups: Spoon the prepared spinach mixture evenly into each pastry-lined muffin cup, filling them generously.
- Fold Pastry and Apply Egg Wash: Bring the overhanging corners of the puff pastry together over the filling, pressing lightly in the center to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten remaining egg to create a shiny, golden finish after baking.
- Bake: Bake the filled pastry cups in the preheated oven for 21 to 24 minutes, switching the rack positions halfway through baking to promote even browning. Bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the spinach puffs from the oven and allow them to cool in the muffin tins for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove the puffs and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the frozen spinach is well squeezed to remove excess moisture, preventing soggy pastry.
- Crisping the bacon before adding enhances texture and flavor.
- Use chilled puff pastry for easier handling and better puff during baking.
- These puffs can be made a few hours ahead and reheated gently for serving.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add extra cheese or nuts for texture.
