Flaky Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls – The Perfect Savory Treat

Hi I'm Paul

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on

This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend kitchen tools, ingredients, and supplements we trust and use ourselves!

Advertisement

There’s something special about a recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth—the kind that makes everyone gather around, eagerly waiting for the first bite. For me, that recipe has always been these Flaky Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls.

I remember the first time I made them. It was a crisp autumn evening, and I wanted to surprise my family with something comforting but effortless. I had some fresh spinach, leftover cheeses in the fridge, and a frozen puff pastry sheet just waiting to be used. I threw everything together, hoping for the best, and what came out of the oven was nothing short of magic. The buttery, golden pastry was crisp and flaky, while the filling was creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned.

From that day on, these rolls became a staple in my kitchen. They’re the kind of recipe that looks fancy but is incredibly simple to make. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a brunch spread, or just a cozy evening snack, these spinach and cheese rolls always disappear in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With the help of store-bought puff pastry, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. No complicated dough-making, no special equipment—just simple ingredients and a bit of oven magic.

2. Crispy, Buttery, and Cheesy

The combination of flaky puff pastry and a rich, cheesy spinach filling creates the perfect contrast of textures. Every bite is crisp on the outside and creamy on the inside.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

  • Serve them as a warm appetizer at parties
  • Enjoy them as a light lunch with a side salad
  • Pack them in lunchboxes for a delicious midday treat
  • Pair them with soup for a cozy meal

4. A Great Way to Use Up Ingredients

This recipe is highly customizable. Have extra feta or goat cheese? Toss it in. Want a bit of spice? Add red pepper flakes. The filling is adaptable, making it great for using up leftovers.

Ingredients

IngredientAmount
Fresh spinach300g
Olive oil3 tbsp
Garlic (minced)3 cloves
Egg (for filling)1
SaltTo taste
Black pepper½ tsp, freshly ground
Ricotta cheese250g
Mozzarella cheese½ cup, shredded
Parmesan cheese½ cup, grated
Puff pastry sheet1
Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp milk)Beaten together
Sesame seedsOptional, for sprinkling

Directions

  1. Prepare the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add spinach, cook until wilted, and remove excess moisture by squeezing with a kitchen towel.
  2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
  3. Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border at the edges.
  4. Roll & Cut: Roll the pastry tightly into a log and slice into 6–8 pieces.
  5. Apply Egg Wash: Brush each roll with the beaten egg and milk mixture. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
  6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the rolls on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
  7. Cool & Serve: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Nutritional Information

NutrientAmount per Roll
Calories220 kcal
Carbohydrates18 g
Protein9 g
Fat14 g
Fiber2 g
Sodium240 mg

What Makes the Perfect Spinach & Cheese Filling?

1. The Right Cheese Combination

The beauty of this filling lies in the combination of three cheeses:

  • Ricotta – Adds a creamy texture and mild flavor.
  • Mozzarella – Melts beautifully, giving that irresistible gooey stretch.
  • Parmesan – Brings in a sharp, salty depth that balances the filling.

If you prefer a tangy twist, you can substitute ricotta with feta cheese, which pairs exceptionally well with spinach.

2. Fresh or Frozen Spinach?

Both work well, but fresh spinach provides a vibrant flavor. If using frozen spinach, make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

3. Seasoning Is Key

A little garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper elevate the flavor. You can also add:


Advertisement
  • Nutmeg – A classic pairing with spinach for a warm, slightly sweet note.
  • Red Pepper Flakes – For a mild kick.
  • Dill or Oregano – To add a touch of freshness.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

1. As an Appetizer

These puff pastry rolls are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers. Arrange them on a platter with a side of yogurt dip or marinara sauce for dipping.

2. As a Light Meal

Pair them with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a simple, balanced meal.

3. With a Bowl of Soup

Serve these rolls alongside a warm tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or classic lentil soup for the ultimate comfort meal.

4. Brunch or Breakfast Treat

They make a fantastic brunch option, served alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Puff Pastry Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the rolls a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also freeze them unbaked and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water. Too much moisture can make the filling runny and cause the pastry to become soggy.

3. Can I Make These Without Eggs?

Yes! The egg in the filling helps bind the mixture, but you can leave it out or replace it with an extra spoonful of ricotta cheese.


Advertisement

4. How Do I Keep Puff Pastry Crispy?

  • Bake at the right temperature (375°F/190°C) to ensure even crisping.
  • Don’t overfill the pastry—too much moisture can prevent it from crisping properly.
  • Let the rolls cool slightly before serving, but avoid covering them while still warm, as trapped steam can soften the crust.

5. Can I Use Different Cheeses?

Absolutely! Some great alternatives include:

  • Feta cheese for a saltier, tangy flavor.
  • Goat cheese for a rich, creamy taste.
  • Cheddar cheese for a sharper bite.

6. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to crisp them back up.

7. Can I Freeze These Puff Pastry Rolls?

Yes! After baking, let them cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Tips for the Best Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls

1. Keep the Puff Pastry Cold

Puff pastry works best when cold. If it gets too soft, place it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before rolling.

2. Don’t Overload the Filling

Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open while baking. Spread it evenly and leave a small border around the edges.

3. Use a Sharp Knife to Slice the Rolls

A clean, sharp cut will help keep their shape intact. You can also chill the rolled-up log for 10 minutes before slicing to make it easier.

4. Egg Wash for a Golden Finish

Brushing the rolls with a mixture of egg and milk before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and adds a slight crispness to the crust.

5. Let Them Rest Before Serving

Puff pastry is best enjoyed slightly cooled, allowing the layers to set and the filling to firm up.


Advertisement

Conclusion – A Crowd-Pleasing Savory Delight

Few things are as satisfying as biting into a flaky, buttery pastry filled with warm, cheesy spinach goodness. These Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls are the kind of dish that makes any occasion feel special—whether you’re serving them for brunch, as an appetizer, or as a comforting snack.

The combination of creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan creates a rich, savory filling that pairs perfectly with the crisp, golden layers of puff pastry. Best of all, they’re easy to make, incredibly versatile, and freezer-friendly, so you can always have a batch ready to bake whenever the craving strikes.

So go ahead—make these, share them, and watch them disappear within minutes. Because some recipes aren’t just about food—they’re about creating moments, bringing people together, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a homemade treat.

Print

Flaky Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls – The Perfect Savory Treat

These Flaky Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls are the perfect balance of crispy, buttery pastry and a rich, cheesy spinach filling. Made with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, these rolls are irresistibly creamy inside with a golden, flaky crust. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress!

  • Author: Amal
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 68 rolls 1x
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale
  • 300g fresh spinach
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg (for filling)
  • Salt, to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 250g ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 puff pastry sheet
  • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove excess moisture by squeezing with a kitchen towel.
  • Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  • Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread the spinach filling evenly, leaving a small border.
  • Roll & Cut: Roll the pastry tightly into a log and slice into 6–8 pieces.
  • Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops with the beaten egg and milk mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
  • Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the rolls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and flaky.
  • Cool & Serve: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Notes

  • Frozen Spinach Option: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before adding it to the filling.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls, freeze unbaked, and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Customization: Add feta for a tangy twist or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!