Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Phyllo Cups have quickly become a favorite in our household, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of creamy spinach and artichoke filling nestled in crispy, flaky phyllo cups creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. The first time I served these bite-sized appetizers at a family gathering, they disappeared in minutes, prompting requests for the recipe. Not only do they make an excellent appetizer for parties and gatherings, but they also offer a gourmet touch that elevates any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
To create these delectable Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Phyllo Cups, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo cups (approximately 15 cups)
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare the Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Phyllo Cups:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the thawed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
- Carefully spoon the mixture into each phyllo cup, filling them generously but not overflowing.
- Place the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the phyllo cups are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
This recipe makes approximately 15 servings, with each phyllo cup containing around 100 calories. The nutritional content may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and variations.
Preparation Time
Preparing these delicious appetizers is surprisingly quick and easy, with a total preparation time of about 30 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time, making it a perfect recipe for those who want to whip up something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Serve
These Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Phyllo Cups can be served in a variety of ways, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As an appetizer: Serve them on a platter as a starter for dinner parties or gatherings.
- At a brunch: Pair them with other small bites like mini quiches or fruit skewers.
- As a snack: Enjoy them as a mid-day treat or snack while entertaining guests.
- On a buffet: Include them as part of a larger spread with other finger foods and dips.
- With a side salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light lunch or dinner.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Phyllo Cups turn out perfectly, consider these additional tips:
- Tip 1: Make sure to drain the spinach and artichokes thoroughly to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
- Tip 2: For added flavor, consider incorporating some sun-dried tomatoes or bacon bits into the filling.
- Tip 3: If you’re short on time, the filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fill the phyllo cups.
- Tip 4: Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnishing to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Tip 5: Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, to give the filling a unique twist.
FAQ Section
To address any questions you might have about this recipe, here are some frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Simply sauté it until wilted, then chop and drain before adding to the filling.
Q: Can these phyllo cups be made ahead of time?
A: While they are best served fresh, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Fill and bake the phyllo cups just before serving.
Q: Are there any substitutions for phyllo cups?
A: If phyllo cups are not available, you can use mini tart shells or even create your own using phyllo dough sheets.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure all your ingredients, such as cheese, are suitable for vegetarians.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness before serving.