Spinach Artichoke Swirls are tasty and fun little bites filled with creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and artichokes, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. Perfect for snacking!
These swirls are always a hit at parties. I mean, who can resist cheesy goodness? Just pop them in the oven and watch them disappear—maybe save a few for yourself! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: The star of this dish! You can buy it frozen, which is super convenient. If you’re in a pinch, crescent dough can work too, but it’ll change the flavor a bit since it’s sweeter.
Fresh Spinach: I love using fresh spinach for its vibrant flavor. If you have frozen spinach, that works too—just squeeze out extra moisture after thawing. Also, feel free to use other greens like kale or collard greens.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichokes are the easiest option, but you can use frozen ones too. If you’re in the mood to experiment, roasted red peppers can add a fun twist!
Cream Cheese: While cream cheese gives a rich, creamy texture, Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative. Just note that it will be tangier.
Cheeses: I combine mozzarella and Parmesan for great flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free cream cheese and nut cheese substitutes like cashew cheese for that creamy depth.
What’s the Best Way to Roll Puff Pastry?
Rolling puff pastry is a key step and can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right! Start by lightly flouring your surface to prevent sticking. Roll the pastry gently to your desired size but avoid pressing too hard; you want those layers to stay intact for a flaky texture.
- Spread the filling evenly, leaving a border to ensure it’s sealed well.
- When rolling, keep it tight but not too tight—it needs some room to expand in the oven!
- After cutting, make sure to place them cut side down so they hold their shape while baking.
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Swirls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, finely chopped (canned or jarred, drained)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those busy days when you still want a delicious homemade treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep your swirls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once warm, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn! Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and the sautéed spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet into approximately a 10×12 inch rectangle. This is where the fun begins! Spread the spinach-artichoke-cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the pastry, leaving a small border all around.
5. Roll the Pastry:
Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log shape. Don’t squeeze too hard; you want to keep it light and fluffy! Pinch the seam to seal it up. This step is crucial for ensuring the filling stays inside as it bakes!
6. Slice and Arrange the Swirls:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick slices. Place each swirl cut side down on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one so they puff up nicely.
7. Brush with Egg Wash:
For that beautiful golden finish, brush the tops of your swirls with the beaten egg. This step will give them a lovely color and shine!
8. Bake the Swirls:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the swirls are puffed and a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the swirls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving warm. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers (if you have any!) can be reheated in the oven.
Enjoy your delicious Spinach Artichoke Swirls! Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging all by yourself!
img src=”https://tastyhomejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/spinach-artichoke-swirls.webp” alt=””>
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the filling. This will prevent your swirls from becoming soggy.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before spreading it on the puff pastry.
How do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time and Freeze Them?
Definitely! You can assemble the swirls, cut them, and freeze them before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.