Spinach and Cheese Croissant | Easy and Delicious Recipe
1. Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as biting into a warm, flaky croissant. But when you add a delicious, creamy spinach and cheese filling inside, you elevate it to a whole new level of savory goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat, a quick snack, or a light lunch, Spinach and Cheese Croissants are an indulgence that’s hard to resist.
This recipe combines the rich, buttery layers of a croissant with the healthy goodness of spinach and the irresistible creaminess of cheese. It’s the perfect balance of textures: crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, with a burst of savory flavor in every bite.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make these delicious croissants from scratch or using store-bought dough. I’ll guide you through each step, share tips for perfecting the filling, and provide suggestions for making this dish even more versatile with fun variations. You’ll also discover serving ideas that pair perfectly with this dish, making it the ideal addition to any meal!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to create these Spinach and Cheese Croissants:
Main Ingredients:
- Croissant Dough (1 package, or homemade)
You can either make croissant dough from scratch or use store-bought dough for convenience. The dough should be buttery and flaky, providing that signature crispy texture when baked.
Tip: If you’re using store-bought dough, look for crescent roll dough or puff pastry as a substitute. - Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped)
Spinach adds a pop of color and a fresh, earthy flavor to the filling. You’ll want to sauté it to reduce moisture and enhance its flavor.
Substitution: Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the filling. - Cream Cheese (4 oz)
Cream cheese gives the filling a creamy, smooth texture and balances out the spinach’s slight bitterness. It also helps bind the ingredients together.
Substitution: For a lighter version, you can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. - Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded)
Mozzarella adds a melt-in-your-mouth quality to the filling. It’s mild and stretchy, making it a perfect cheese to complement the spinach.
Substitution: You can also use cheddar or Swiss cheese for a stronger flavor. - Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated)
Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall richness of the croissant filling.
Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan will have the best flavor, but pre-grated will work as well. - Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Garlic adds depth and a savory kick to the filling. Sautéing it with the spinach infuses the whole dish with aromatic goodness.
Substitution: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic. - Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
Olive oil is used for sautéing the spinach and garlic. It adds richness and helps cook the ingredients evenly.
Substitution: Butter can be used for a richer flavor. - Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Simple seasonings like salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the spinach and cheese. Adjust to your liking.
Tip: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh Parsley or Thyme
A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. They complement the savory filling and bring an extra layer of flavor.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s walk through how to make these Spinach and Cheese Croissants:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your croissants bake evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the spinach wilts and any excess moisture evaporates. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Croissant Dough
If you’re using store-bought dough, unroll it and separate the individual triangles. For homemade dough, roll it out into a rectangle and cut it into triangles. Place each triangle on a clean surface or baking sheet.
Step 5: Assemble the Croissants
Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the spinach and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each croissant triangle. Carefully roll up each triangle, starting from the wide end and rolling towards the tip. Place the rolled croissants on the prepared baking sheet, making sure the tip of the dough is tucked underneath to prevent it from unrolling during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. The cheese will melt inside, and the dough will turn perfectly crispy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the croissants are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. Enjoy while warm!
4. Tips and Variations
Expert Tips:
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the croissants, as it can cause the filling to spill out during baking. A spoonful of filling is usually enough.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the croissants as they bake. Depending on your oven, they may need a minute or two more or less.
- Crispy Layers: For extra crispy layers, brush the croissants with a bit of butter or olive oil before baking.
Variations:
- Add Meat: If you want to add some protein, you can incorporate cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage into the filling.
- Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free mozzarella, and vegan croissant dough.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free croissant dough at the store or use gluten-free puff pastry.
5. Serving Suggestions
These Spinach and Cheese Croissants are a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides and drinks:
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a fresh green salad, tomato soup, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Breakfast Pairing: These croissants are perfect for brunch. Serve with a side of scrambled eggs or a refreshing fruit salad.
- Drinks: Pair with a freshly brewed coffee, herbal tea, or a crisp white wine for a more sophisticated meal.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These croissants freeze well. To freeze, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy. You can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds but the texture may not be as crispy.
7. Recipe Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling and assemble the croissants a day in advance. Simply refrigerate them until ready to bake.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-grated.
- Use a 6-Quart Crock Pot: For large batches, you can use a slow cooker to keep the croissants warm after baking.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 210 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbs | 17g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Calcium | 120mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cuisine: French, Savory
Servings: 8 croissants
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 package of croissant dough
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté garlic and spinach in olive oil until the spinach wilts and moisture evaporates.
- Combine spinach mixture with cheeses in a bowl.
- Unroll croissant dough and spoon filling onto each triangle.
- Roll the croissants and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.
Notes:
- Perfect for a quick brunch or dinner.
- Make-ahead: Prepare and refrigerate for later baking.
Nutrition:
Calories: 210 | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 17g | Protein: 6g
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
These Spinach and Cheese Croissants are perfect for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or light dinner. The buttery, flaky croissant dough combined with the savory spinach and cheese filling is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or serving them at a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Feel free to share any variations you try or ideas for other fillings you’d like to see.