Mini Spinach Cheese Rolls

Mini Spinach Cheese Rolls are a delightful combination of crispy, golden pastry wrapped around a creamy, flavorful spinach and cheese filling. These bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or even as party appetizers.

The buttery puff pastry encases a rich filling made from sautéed spinach, soft ricotta, and melty mozzarella or cheddar, creating a delicious harmony of texture and flavor. They’re simple to prepare yet taste like something straight from a bakery.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Mini Spinach Cheese Rolls because they perfectly combine convenience and gourmet flavor. The recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients but delivers a beautifully satisfying result.

The crisp, flaky pastry contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, savory spinach filling, and every bite feels indulgent yet wholesome. I also adore how customizable they are — you can change the cheese, add herbs, or include other vegetables without losing their charm.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Mini Spinach Cheese Rolls are a must-try because they are the ultimate blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Unlike many party snacks that are deep-fried or overly heavy, these rolls are light yet satisfying. The flaky pastry and creamy filling create an irresistible balance, and they can be enjoyed at any time of day.

They are also versatile — perfect as a breakfast pastry, a lunchbox addition, or a quick evening snack. The spinach adds nutrients and color, while the cheese brings comfort and richness. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again for every occasion.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 mini rolls
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 160 kcal
• Course: Snack / Appetizer / Breakfast
• Cuisine: European / Fusion

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for topping)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil or butter in a pan. Add onions and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Then add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the cheeses: In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and thick.
4. Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Add the filling: Spread the spinach-cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along one edge.
6. Roll and cut: Roll the pastry tightly from one long side to the other, sealing the edge with a little egg wash. Cut into 1-inch thick slices.
7. Arrange on baking tray: Place rolls cut-side down on the prepared tray. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired.
8. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
9. Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking tray.
2. Sauté spinach: Cook chopped onions and garlic in oil, then add spinach until wilted. Cool the mixture.
3. Combine filling: Mix spinach with cheeses, herbs, and seasoning.
4. Prepare pastry base: Roll out puff pastry evenly.
5. Spread filling: Evenly layer spinach mixture across the pastry.
6. Roll up: Roll into a tight log and seal the edge.
7. Slice and arrange: Cut into even rolls and place on tray.
8. Brush and bake: Add egg wash, sprinkle seeds, and bake until golden.
9. Cool slightly and serve.

How to Serve

Serve Mini Spinach Cheese Rolls warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair beautifully with a side of marinara sauce, garlic dip, or yogurt dressing. These rolls also make an elegant addition to brunch platters or party appetizers. You can serve them with soup or salad for a light meal.

Recipe Tips

• Make sure the spinach mixture is not too wet; squeeze out excess water to prevent soggy pastry.
• Chill the filled pastry log for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls evenly.
• You can use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry for a lighter version.
• Brush with melted butter instead of egg wash for a vegetarian alternative.

Variations

1. Feta Spinach Rolls: Replace ricotta with crumbled feta for a tangy Mediterranean flavor.
2. Mushroom Spinach Rolls: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra umami richness.
3. Spicy Spinach Rolls: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
4. Vegan Spinach Rolls: Use vegan puff pastry and replace cheese with cashew cream or vegan cheese.
5. Breakfast Rolls: Add scrambled eggs to the filling for a protein-packed morning treat.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Refrigerator: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to crisp them up.
• Freezer (Unbaked): You can freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 2 months. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then store in freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezer (Baked): Baked rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding to the filling.

Q2. How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure your spinach mixture is dry and the oven is preheated properly. Avoid overfilling the rolls.

Q3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls a day ahead, store them covered in the fridge, and bake them just before serving.

Q4. What cheeses work best?
Ricotta, feta, mozzarella, cheddar, or cream cheese all work well — you can even combine two types for extra richness.

Q5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free puff pastry available in most supermarkets.

Conclusion

Mini Spinach Cheese Rolls are the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and elegance. With their golden, flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, they’re an instant hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick snack, or looking for an easy breakfast idea, these rolls will impress everyone with their taste and texture.

They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and freeze beautifully — a recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.