If you’re craving a quick, savory, and satisfying dish, these Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (also known as Spanakopita Patties) are the perfect recipe. Inspired by the classic Greek spinach pie, these patties are filled with a delicious mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, all wrapped in a crispy, golden exterior. They’re perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Whether you serve them on their own or with a side of tzatziki, they’re sure to be a hit!
What makes these patties so special is the combination of fresh spinach and creamy feta, enhanced with garlic and a few simple spices. The flaky, crisp texture on the outside contrasts beautifully with the tender, flavorful filling. Plus, these patties are easy to make and bake in just under 30 minutes, making them a great weeknight dinner or a fun party snack.
I first made these Easy Spinach & Feta Patties when I wanted to recreate the flavors of spanakopita in a simpler, more bite-sized form. They turned out to be everything I hoped for: flavorful, satisfying, and super easy to make! Since then, they’ve become one of my go-to recipes for a quick and delicious meal that always pleases the crowd.
Why These Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties) Will Be Your New Favorite
- Deliciously savory: The spinach and feta filling is rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned.
- Crispy on the outside: These patties are baked to a golden, crispy perfection, making each bite satisfying and crunchy.
- Quick and easy: With minimal ingredients and only 30 minutes of baking time, these patties are a breeze to prepare.
- Versatile: They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light main course. Plus, they’re great for meal prep!
What You Need For Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the patties)
How to Make Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties)
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture sticks together.
- Form the patties: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small, round or oval patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with olive oil: Brush the tops of the patties with olive oil to help them get golden and crispy while baking.
- Bake the patties: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Halfway through the baking, flip the patties to ensure even cooking.
- Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a side of tzatziki or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips For Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties)
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to thoroughly drain the excess water to prevent the patties from becoming soggy.
- For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or even oats as a substitute.
- You can add extra herbs like fresh dill or parsley to enhance the flavor of the filling.
- To make the patties crispier, you can also pan-fry them in a little olive oil over medium heat before baking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) instead of the regular egg and substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
- Cheese-Free: If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer not to use cheese, omit the feta and add more herbs or a splash of lemon juice for added flavor.
- Add Meat: For a non-vegetarian version, you can add ground lamb or chicken to the filling for a heartier patty.
- Add Spices: Spice it up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of cumin to the mixture.
Make a Healthier Version
- Low Carb: Use almond flour or ground flax as a substitute for breadcrumbs to make these patties low-carb.
- Lower Fat: Use a low-fat feta or part-skim ricotta cheese for a lighter option.
- Baked, Not Fried: This recipe is already baked, but you can also pan-fry the patties in a non-stick pan with minimal oil for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
Closing For Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties)
And there you have it! These Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties) are the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and crispy textures. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, making them a great option for busy weeknights or casual parties. Don’t forget to let us know how your patties turn out, and be sure to check out some of our other Mediterranean-inspired recipes for more delicious ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties)
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.
Can I freeze these patties?
Absolutely! After forming the patties, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them before storing in a freezer-safe bag. Bake them from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the water before adding it to the mixture.
Can I pan-fry these patties?
Yes, if you prefer, you can pan-fry the patties in a little olive oil for a few minutes on each side before baking.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella as a substitute for feta.
How do I know when the patties are done?
The patties are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also insert a toothpick to check if the inside is firm.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Can I bake these patties at a lower temperature?
Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for a longer time if you prefer, just make sure they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! You can substitute fresh herbs for dried ones, just use about 3 times the amount as the dried version.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or leeks for more flavor and texture.
Are these patties vegan?
These patties are vegetarian, but you can make them vegan by substituting the egg and feta for plant-based alternatives.
Easy Spinach & Feta Patties (Spanakopita Patties)
Course: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the patties)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture sticks together.
- Form the patties: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small, round or oval patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with olive oil: Brush the tops of the patties with olive oil to help them get golden and crispy while baking.
- Bake the patties: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Halfway through the baking, flip the patties to ensure even cooking.
- Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a side of tzatziki or your favorite dipping sauce.