These air fryer cream cheese spinach puffs are a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy filling and crispy, flaky puff pastry. The spinach adds a healthy touch, and the cream cheese provides a rich, smooth texture. These puffs are quick and easy to make in the air fryer, and they make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. With the air fryer, you get a perfectly crispy exterior without the added oil of deep frying.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan with a little oil until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Let it cool and then chop finely. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained and chopped.
  2. Make the filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked spinach and mix until the mixture is well combined.
  3. Prepare the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the sheet into 9 equal squares or rectangles (depending on your preference for puff size).
  4. Fill the puffs: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pinching the edges to seal them tightly.
  5. Air fry the puffs: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If you’d like a golden-brown finish, brush the tops of the puffs with a beaten egg. Arrange the puffs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
  6. Cook the puffs: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Let the puffs cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed as is or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 9 servings):

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Fat: 8 g
    • Saturated fat: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
    • Fiber: 1 g
    • Sugars: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
  • Sodium: 140 mg
  • Potassium: 80 mg

This recipe is a lighter version of the traditional spinach puffs, thanks to the air fryer, but still delivers on flavor and crispiness. Enjoy!