Name: Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup artichokes, chopped; 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 1/8 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt to taste; Fresh cracked pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes to taste; 1 puff pastry sheet (thawed); 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tsp water (for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 78 reviews

If you are craving a delightful appetizer that combines flaky pastry with creamy, flavorful filling, the Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe is exactly what you need. These little spirals are packed with fresh spinach, tender artichokes, tangy parmesan, and a touch of garlic, all hugged perfectly by golden, buttery puff pastry. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a cozy night in, or just want a snack that feels special, these swirls bring a wonderful balance of crisp texture and creamy savoriness that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A woman's hand is twisting a long strip of dough filled with green spinach and light cream filling on a wooden checkered board. The dough is pale yellow and soft, wrapped around the green filling in a spiral pattern, with visible layers making a twisted rope shape. Nearby on the board, there are two finished rolls of the same dough and filling, each shaped in a round rose-like form showing multiple dough layers swirled with green spinach. The board has a natural wood pattern with alternating light and dark squares, and some bits of filling and flour dust are scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating these irresistible Spinach Artichoke Swirls. Each component plays a vital role, from the flaky puff pastry base providing structure and crunch, to the rich and creamy filling that delivers bold, comforting flavors.

1 puff pastry sheet: The foundation for delicate, flaky swirls with a buttery finish.
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds vibrant color and fresh vegetal flavor.
1/4 cup artichokes, chopped: Provides a tender, slightly tangy element to brighten the filling.
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese: Infuses a nutty umami depth that enhances every bite.
1/8 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings creamy richness to bind the filling smoothly.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and silky texture, balancing the drier ingredients.
1 garlic clove, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth and a savory punch.
Salt to taste: Essential for highlighting the natural flavors in the mixture.
Fresh cracked pepper to taste: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
Red pepper flakes to taste: Optional kick to spark excitement in every swirl.
1 egg for egg wash: Creates a glossy, golden-brown finish on the pastry.

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pastry

Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the puff pastry sheet to thaw completely at room temperature so it becomes pliable and easy to work with. This step ensures even baking and prevents cracking when rolling later on.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, artichokes, shredded parmesan, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt, freshly cracked pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste. Mix well until all the ingredients meld into a creamy, savory filling that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Swirls

Carefully cut the thawed puff pastry sheet in half. Spread the spinach and artichoke mixture evenly over one half of the pastry, making sure it reaches close to the edges without spilling over. Next, lay the second half of the puff pastry sheet on top, gently pressing down to sandwich the savory filling between the two layers.

Step 4: Cut and Twist the Strips

Using a sharp knife, slice the assembly into six long, even strips along the longer side of the pastry. Take each strip and twist it gently to create spiral shapes, then roll the twisted strips into swirls. Be sure to tuck the ends underneath the swirls to secure them so they hold their shape while baking.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk one egg with a teaspoon of water to create a smooth egg wash. Lightly brush each swirl with this mixture — this will give the pastries a beautiful golden, glossy finish. Arrange the swirls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400 degrees for about 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and the puff pastry is cooked through. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary.

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe

Six round dough buns are placed on crumpled light brown parchment paper on a baking tray. Each bun is twisted and folded, showing layers of pale yellow dough mixed with green leafy filling that looks like spinach or herbs. The dough is shiny as if brushed with oil or butter. The buns are arranged in two rows of three, evenly spaced. The baking tray rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make these swirls even more inviting, sprinkle some extra parmesan or freshly ground black pepper on top just before serving. A light dusting of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and herbaceous freshness that complements the rich filling.

Side Dishes

Spinach Artichoke Swirls pair wonderfully with light side dishes like a crisp garden salad or tomato basil soup. The freshness and acidity of these sides balance the creamy richness of the swirls perfectly, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange the swirls in a spiral pattern on a large platter with small bowls of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, marinara, or a tangy yogurt dip. You could also serve them alongside other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta for an impressive appetizer spread that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They maintain their deliciousness well when reheated properly, keeping both the filling creamy and the pastry flaky.

Freezing

These swirls freeze beautifully before baking. Simply assemble the swirls up to the point of the egg wash, then freeze them on a parchment-lined tray until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

To bring the swirls back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the pastry regains its crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that flaky texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out excess water to avoid soggy swirls. Fresh spinach tends to give a brighter flavor and better texture, though frozen is a convenient alternative.

Is it possible to make these swirls vegan?

Definitely! Use a vegan puff pastry and substitute the dairy with vegan cream cheese and mayonnaise alternatives. Just be sure to use a plant-based milk or a flaxseed egg for the egg wash to achieve that golden finish.

Can I prepare the filling a day ahead?

Absolutely! The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making your Spinach Artichoke Swirls even more delicious.

How spicy will the swirls be with red pepper flakes?

That depends on the amount you add—red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth and subtle kick rather than intense heat. You can adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference or omit it entirely for a milder version.

What should I do if my puff pastry is too sticky or tearing?

If your puff pastry feels sticky or tears easily, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before working with it. This firms up the dough and makes it easier to handle, resulting in perfect swirls every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to give this Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe a try. It’s a winning combination of easy prep, crowd-pleasing flavors, and irresistible textures that will quickly make it a favorite in your recipe box. Once you taste these golden, swirled bites, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them as a go-to snack or appetizer.