SouthernTurk
Unusual recipes for curious cooks.
https://www.southernturk.versust.com/recipe/kronks-spinach-puffs
Printed September 1, 2026
Printed September 1, 2026
Fictional Feasts
Kronk's Spinach Puffs
The Emperor's New Groove's lovable henchman had one true talent: these impossibly flaky, cheesy spinach pastries. They're so good, they'll turn enemies into friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- Sesame seeds for topping
Preparation
Kronk, the gentle giant from The Emperor's New Groove, may have been a villain's sidekick, but his spinach puffs were pure heroism. These golden triangles of flaky phyllo surrounding a creamy, garlicky spinach filling prove that sometimes the real magic is in the kitchen.
The Filling
- Make sure your spinach is very well-drained—squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel to remove all excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, feta, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, nutmeg, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly and taste for seasoning. It should be well-seasoned and rich.
Forming the Puffs
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.
- Unroll phyllo dough and cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Take one sheet of phyllo and brush lightly with melted butter.
- Cut the sheet lengthwise into 3 strips.
- Place a tablespoon of filling at the bottom of each strip.
- Fold into triangles, flag-style, brushing with butter as you go.
- Place on baking sheet seam-side down, brush with more butter, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Repeat until all filling is used.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve hot from the oven. As Kronk would say, "Oh yeah, it's all coming together."
