Savory Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites – Easy Party Appetizer

If you’re searching for the perfect easy party appetizer that looks impressive yet requires minimal effort, these Savory Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites are exactly what you need. Flaky, buttery layers of golden puff pastry wrap around a creamy, savory spinach and feta filling, creating bite-sized snacks that disappear within minutes at any gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration, planning a brunch spread, preparing game-day snacks, or simply craving savory puff pastry snacks, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and simplicity. The combination of earthy spinach and tangy feta cheese creates a balanced filling that feels both comforting and elegant.

These spinach feta puff pastry bites are:

• Easy to prepare
• Budget-friendly
• Make-ahead friendly
• Crowd-pleasing
• Perfect for entertaining

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create these irresistible spinach feta appetizers.

Why You’ll Love These Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites

1. Flaky, Buttery Perfection

Store-bought puff pastry is a secret weapon in the kitchen. When baked, it transforms into delicate, crisp layers that shatter beautifully with every bite. The contrast between the crisp exterior and creamy filling makes these bites completely addictive.

2. Simple Yet Sophisticated Flavor

Spinach and feta is a classic Mediterranean-inspired combination. The spinach adds freshness and a subtle earthiness, while feta provides creamy saltiness that elevates the entire dish.

3. Ideal Make-Ahead Finger Food

If you’re planning a party, convenience is everything. These bites can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them an excellent make ahead finger food option.

4. Versatile for Any Occasion

From baby showers to holiday dinners, brunch spreads to cocktail parties, these spinach feta appetizers fit seamlessly into any menu.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch of salt (optional, feta is salty)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional topping)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Puff Pastry

Use high-quality frozen puff pastry for best results. Let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before use.

Spinach

Fresh spinach works best, but frozen spinach can be used. If using frozen, thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy pastry.

Feta Cheese

Block feta packed in brine has better flavor and texture than pre-crumbled varieties.

Cream Cheese

Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling. Ricotta can also be used for a lighter texture.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and allow mixture to cool slightly.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach mixture, feta cheese, cream cheese, black pepper, oregano, and salt if needed. Mix until well combined.
6. Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets slightly on a lightly floured surface.
7. Cut each sheet into equal squares (about 9–12 per sheet).
8. Place a spoonful of spinach feta filling in the center of each square.
9. Fold corners inward (or fold into triangles) and gently press edges to seal.
10. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bite.
11. Beat egg and brush lightly over each pastry for golden color.
12. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
13. Bake for 15–20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
14. Cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Bites

Keep Pastry Cold

Puff pastry rises best when cold. If it becomes soft while assembling, place it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before baking.

Avoid Overfilling

Too much filling can cause leakage. Use about one tablespoon per square.

Proper Sealing

Press edges gently but firmly to prevent opening during baking.

Drain Spinach Well

Excess moisture is the enemy of crisp pastry. Always cook off liquid or squeeze thoroughly.

Flavor Variations

1. Add Herbs

Fresh dill or parsley adds brightness.

2. Add Protein

Incorporate cooked chicken, crumbled sausage, or bacon bits.

3. Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a touch of chili paste.

4. Mediterranean Twist

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives.

Serving Suggestions

These savory puff pastry snacks are incredibly versatile:

• Serve warm with tzatziki or garlic yogurt dip.
• Pair with a fresh tomato salad for brunch.
• Include on a charcuterie board.
• Serve alongside soup for a light meal.
• Add to a holiday appetizer platter.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked assembled bites on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to baking time.

Cultural Inspiration: The Spanakopita Connection

This recipe is inspired by the beloved Greek dish Spanakopita — a spinach and feta pie traditionally made with phyllo dough. While phyllo creates delicate crisp layers, puff pastry offers a quicker, more approachable alternative while maintaining satisfying flakiness.

The spinach and feta combination has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where simple ingredients shine through balanced seasoning.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach provides iron, fiber, and antioxidants. Feta offers protein and calcium. While puff pastry adds indulgence, these bites balance richness with fresh ingredients.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes — just thaw and squeeze thoroughly.

Can I make these vegan?

Use vegan puff pastry and plant-based feta and cream cheese.

How do I keep them crispy?

Bake until deeply golden and reheat in oven, not microwave.

Final Thoughts

These Savory Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites are everything an easy party appetizer should be: simple, elegant, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. With flaky golden pastry and creamy Mediterranean-inspired filling, they’re guaranteed to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.

Make them once, and they’ll quickly become your go-to spinach feta appetizers for every gathering.

Savory Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites

Flaky golden puff pastry filled with creamy spinach and feta, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 24 bites

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 180

Ingredients

  

Filling

• 2 cups fresh spinach finely chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 0.33 cup cream cheese softened
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp dried oregano

Pastry

• 2 sheets puff pastry thawed
• 1 egg for egg wash

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Cool slightly.
4. Mix spinach mixture with feta, cream cheese, and seasonings.
5. Cut puff pastry into squares and add filling.
6. Fold and seal pastry. Brush with egg wash.
7. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden and puffed.

Notes

Keep puff pastry cold before baking for best rise.