There’s something utterly delightful about the way phyllo dough transforms into crisp, buttery cups, cradling a creamy filling that’s bursting with flavor. I found myself craving a snack that felt indulgent but didn’t require a culinary degree to pull off—enter the Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups! This recipe is the perfect solution for those evenings when you want something fancy without the fuss.
As I layered the delicate sheets of phyllo in my muffin tin, the anticipation grew. With every rich spoonful of artichoke and vibrant spinach blended into the luscious cream cheese, I knew I had stumbled upon a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a soirée or simply in need of a satisfying bite alongside your favorite movie, these little cups of joy pack a punch of flavor that will leave everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into making these mouthwatering Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups that are sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups
- These Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups are incredibly easy to make, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, which means you can enjoy them with minimal effort.
- The flavor is out of this world, combining the richness of cream cheese with the earthy taste of spinach and the tangy artichokes, creating a filling that everyone will rave about.
- They are versatile enough to serve as an appetizer at a party, a special snack for movie night, or even a flavorful addition to your brunch spread.
- Plus, the visual appeal of the golden, crispy phyllo cups will make them the star of the table, attracting your guests’ attention and delighting their taste buds.
Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups Ingredients
This delightful recipe comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients!
For the Phyllo Cups
• Phyllo dough – 8 sheets, use fresh for best texture.
• Melted butter – ¼ cup, perfect for brushing between layers to achieve that flaky goodness.
For the Filling
• Fresh spinach – 2 cups, chopped; feel free to use frozen spinach if you’re short on fresh!
• Artichoke hearts – 1 can (14 oz), drained and chopped; they add a delicious tangy flavor.
• Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened; this is the creamy base that brings everything together.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, it adds a salty, nutty kick to the filling.
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp, for that extra depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper – to taste; be sure to season according to your preference.
Now you’re all set for some scrumptious Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups that will make your taste buds dance!
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential to achieve that perfect golden-brown color on your phyllo cups!
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Mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped artichokes, fresh spinach, garlic powder, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
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Layer four sheets of phyllo dough, brushing melted butter between each layer, into muffin tins. Cut them to fit, ensuring each muffin cup is fully lined for that wonderful flaky texture.
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Fill each phyllo cup generously with the spinach-artichoke mixture. Top each one with the remaining Parmesan for an extra cheesy finish.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. Allow them to cool slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and taste.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix together the softened cream cheese, artichokes, spinach, garlic powder, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, wrap the phyllo dough tightly in plastic wrap (or aluminum foil) and refrigerate it separately to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, layer the phyllo dough in muffin tins and fill them with the prepped mixture, topping with the remaining Parmesan. Then bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, and enjoy a delicious appetizer with minimal effort!
Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these delightful cups to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the filling for a zesty burst of heat.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh herbs like dill or basil to elevate the flavor and freshness of your filling.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate other veggies such as roasted red peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor—a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out phyllo dough for gluten-free pastry sheets or use almond flour to create a crust alternative that still delivers on crispiness.
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Flavorful Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that adds depth to the filling.
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Pesto Delight: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of pesto into the filling for a unique herby flavor that checks the boxes for freshness.
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Savory Bacon: For a deliciously rich flavor, stir in some crisp, crumbled bacon into the filling. This addition pairs wonderfully with the creamy and cheesy elements.
With these variations, the possibilities are endless—each twist will bring forth a unique version of these Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups that are sure to delight any crowd!
What to Serve with Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that harmonize beautifully with these creamy, crispy bites.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the phyllo cups, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Tomato Basil Bruschetta: The vibrant tomatoes and aromatic basil can add a splash of color and a burst of flavor that complements the savory filling perfectly.
- Creamy Potato Gratin: The indulgent layers of creamy potatoes create a comforting side that pairs well with the lightness of the phyllo cups, making for an inviting meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables contribute a touch of earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile while adding a nutritious element to your plate.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, highlights the flavors in the phyllo cups while keeping the meal light and refreshing.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights can provide a hearty complement, adding layers of umami flavor and textural variety to your gathering.
- Garlic Herb Butter Breadsticks: With their soft texture and garlicky flavor, these breadsticks can soak up any leftover creamy filling from your plates, ensuring no bite goes to waste!
- Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal with a light, zesty dessert that cleanses the palate and leaves everyone feeling refreshed after enjoying the savory phyllo cups.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups
Room Temperature: These delicious Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups can be left out for up to 2 hours, perfect for gatherings when you want to keep them warm and ready for snacking.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispiness.
Freezer: You can freeze unbaked phyllo cups with the filling for up to 2 months. Just assemble them, place them in a freezer-safe container, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To reheat baked cups, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing to create a smooth filling without lumps.
- Be careful not to overfill the phyllo cups, as they may overflow while baking, creating a mess.
- When layering the phyllo dough, brush each sheet with melted butter generously to achieve that desired flakiness and golden color.
- Always keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups Recipe FAQs
What kind of spinach should I use for the Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups?
Absolutely, fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe as it lends a vibrant flavor and texture. However, if you’re short on fresh spinach, you can certainly use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to your filling.
How should I store leftover Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups?
You can store any leftover phyllo cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze these Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups?
Yes, you can! To freeze unbaked phyllo cups, assemble them filled with the spinach-artichoke mixture, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, take them straight from the freezer and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What should I do if my phyllo dough tears while working with it?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If your phyllo dough tears, simply layer another sheet on top and brush it with melted butter. The more sheets you layer, the flakier and more robust your phyllo cups will become, so just keep adding until you’ve achieved the right feel.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can be adjusted! You can opt for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan version, and be mindful of the amount of salt if you’re watching your sodium intake. Always check the labels on your ingredients, especially for allergies related to gluten, as phyllo dough is typically made from wheat.
How can I make the Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups even more flavorful?
Oh, very! To add extra depth of flavor, try including some spices like crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like dill and parsley in the filling. You can also mix different cheeses, like feta or mozzarella, into the creamy base for a delightful twist!
Equipment
- muffin tin
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Phyllo Cups
- 8 sheets Phyllo dough use fresh for best texture
- 0.25 cup Melted butter for brushing between layers
For the Filling
- 2 cups Fresh spinach chopped; frozen can be used
- 1 can (14 oz) Artichoke hearts drained and chopped
- 8 oz Cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese for topping
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Phyllo Cups
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped artichokes, fresh spinach, garlic powder, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Layer four sheets of phyllo dough, brushing melted butter between each layer, into muffin tins.
- Fill each phyllo cup generously with the spinach-artichoke mixture. Top each one with the remaining Parmesan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
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