Stuffed Spinach Cheddar Holiday Rolls (Print Version)

Golden rolls packed with spinach and cheddar, ideal as a festive appetizer or savory side.

# Ingredients:

→ Rolls

01 - 12 dinner rolls or soft yeast rolls, thawed if frozen

→ Filling

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
05 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
07 - 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Topping

09 - 1 tablespoon whole milk or heavy cream
10 - Sesame seeds or additional grated cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
02 - Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add finely chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until spinach is wilted. Remove skillet from heat.
04 - Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper into the spinach mixture. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
05 - Using a small knife, cut a pocket into each dinner roll, ensuring not to slice all the way through.
06 - Gently spoon the spinach and cheese filling into the center of each roll, pressing lightly to close the pocket.
07 - Place filled rolls into the prepared baking dish. Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream, then sprinkle with sesame seeds or more cheddar cheese if desired.
08 - Transfer baking dish to the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
09 - Remove from oven and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use thawed rolls at room temperature to prevent tearing when making pockets. Ensure the spinach mixture is cooled slightly before stuffing to avoid soggy bread.