Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pastry Cups

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pastry Cups are elegant, golden, and flaky mini pastries filled with a luscious blend of spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. Each bite combines crisp, buttery pastry with the creamy tang of cheese — making it a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

This recipe draws inspiration from the beloved Greek dish Spanakopita, but instead of traditional layered filo, the filling is baked in mini puff pastry cups for a fun, bite-sized twist. Ideal for brunches, parties, or teatime snacks, these pastries are guaranteed to impress your guests with their flavor and presentation.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it takes something simple — spinach and cheese — and transforms it into a gourmet appetizer that feels special. The rich, buttery pastry pairs perfectly with the salty feta and tender spinach, creating an irresistible savory treat.

It’s a dish that’s easy to make, elegant to serve, and always crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a quick weekend snack, these pastry cups deliver comfort, flavor, and sophistication in every bite.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect blend of textures — crispy pastry with a creamy filling.
• Simple yet elegant — ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Customizable — add herbs, other cheeses, or even protein.
• Quick to prepare — ready in under 40 minutes.
• Make-ahead friendly — can be frozen or baked in advance.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 pastry cups
• Calories: ~140 kcal per cup

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Greek-inspired / Mediterranean
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Finger Food / Brunch

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste (only if needed — feta is already salty)

For the Pastry Cups:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped
• Grated Parmesan (for extra flavor)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onion, garlic, and spinach.
2. Mix spinach with feta, cream cheese, and seasonings.
3. Cut puff pastry into squares and press into muffin tin.
4. Fill with spinach mixture and bake until golden.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
   • If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with feta, cream cheese, beaten egg, oregano, and black pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning (feta provides enough salt for most).

Step 3: Prepare the Pastry Cups

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly and cut into 12 equal squares.
3. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or regular muffin tray.
4. Gently press each pastry square into the cups, forming a small bowl shape.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

1. Spoon 1 tablespoon of spinach-feta filling into each pastry cup.
2. Brush the exposed pastry edges with melted butter or olive oil.
3. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Perfect for tea parties, brunch spreads, potlucks, or festive gatherings.
• Pair with a light salad, yogurt dip, or tzatziki sauce.
• For an elegant touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a crumble of extra feta.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Always drain spinach thoroughly to avoid soggy pastry.
• Don’t overfill the pastry cups; they will puff up while baking.
• If using phyllo dough instead of puff pastry, brush each layer with butter before shaping.
• For a richer filling, add a spoon of ricotta cheese.
• Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized appetizers or a regular muffin tin for larger portions.

Recipe Variations

1. Greek Style: Add chopped olives and a sprinkle of dill.
2. Cheesy Version: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
3. Mushroom Spinach Cups: Sauté diced mushrooms with spinach.
4. Vegan Option: Use dairy-free feta and cream cheese substitutes.
5. Breakfast Cups: Add a pinch of nutmeg and extra egg for a quiche-like texture.

Freezing and Storage

To Freeze:

• Freeze unbaked pastry cups on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• Bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes.

To Store:

• Store baked pastry cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes to crisp up again.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mini or regular muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet or pan
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Pastry brush

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the cups and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture.

Q3: Can I substitute the cheese?
A: Yes, you can replace feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or paneer.

Q4: My pastry cups collapsed while baking — why?
A: This happens if the dough is too warm or the filling is too wet. Keep both chilled before baking.

Q5: What can I serve these with?
A: They pair beautifully with tzatziki, Greek salad, or roasted red pepper dip.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pastry Cups are the perfect blend of flaky pastry and creamy Mediterranean filling. Light yet indulgent, simple yet elegant — they make any occasion special.

From brunch buffets to evening appetizers, these bite-sized delights offer everything you love about Greek flavors in an easy-to-eat form. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’re a must-have on every entertaining menu — buttery, cheesy, and absolutely unforgettable!