Spinach and Feta Stuffed Soda Bread Rolls are soft, warm, and packed with delicious flavors. The dough is light and tender, with a slightly tangy soda bread taste, while the filling of fresh spinach and salty feta cheese adds a tasty surprise in every bite. These rolls are perfect for a snack, a side with soup, or even a simple lunch.
I love making these rolls because they come together quickly and don’t need any yeast, so no waiting around for the dough to rise. The spinach and feta combo is something I always enjoy—it feels fresh and a bit tangy, which balances perfectly with the bread’s mild flavor. Sometimes, I add a little garlic or herbs to the filling to give it an extra kick.
One of my favorite ways to serve these stuffed soda bread rolls is straight from the oven, warm and soft, maybe with a little butter melting on top. They’re great for picnics or packed lunches because they stay tasty even after a few hours. Whenever I serve these rolls, they tend to disappear fast, and I always get asked for the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works well for soft, tender rolls. If you prefer a whole-grain twist, try half whole wheat flour, but your rolls might be a bit denser.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang that reacts with baking soda. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar and let sit 5 mins.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for tender filling. You can swap it with kale or Swiss chard, but cook them thoroughly to soften the leaves.
Feta Cheese: Classic for this filling, it adds saltiness and creaminess. If you can’t find it, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta with a pinch of salt works well.
Onion & Garlic: These boost flavor nicely but are optional. If you want milder taste, just use garlic or skip the onion.
How Do You Roll and Shape the Dough for Perfect Stuffed Rolls?
Rolling and shaping the dough is key to neat, evenly filled rolls. Here’s how to get it right:
- Lightly flour your surface to prevent sticking but don’t use too much or dough dries out.
- Roll gently into a rectangle about 12×15 inches; it should be even thickness for uniform baking.
- Spread filling evenly, leaving a small edge free so rolls seal properly when rolled.
- Roll tightly from one long side but don’t squeeze too hard or filling will spill out.
- Use a sharp knife to cut into 6-8 equal pieces so they cook evenly.
- Place rolls cut side up on baking tray, this helps keep the filling inside and creates a nice crust on top.
Following these tips will help you get soft rolls with beautiful swirls of spinach and feta inside every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I like a large one so there’s plenty of space to combine the dough ingredients easily.
- Rolling pin – makes it simple to roll out the dough into a large rectangle for even filling.
- Skillet – for cooking the spinach, garlic, and onion; I use a sturdy non-stick pan that heats evenly.
- Sharp knife or bench scraper – helps to cut the rolled dough into even slices without squishing the filling.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – keeps the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Pastry brush – for brushing olive oil on the tops for a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace feta with grated mozzarella or Parmesan for a different cheesy twist depending on your taste or what you have.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet and savory flavor boost.
- Use a blend of herbs, like basil, thyme, or rosemary, for a more aromatic roll.
- Add cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon for a hearty, meaty filling.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Soda Bread Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (plus extra if needed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For The Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed Italian herbs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 45 minutes total, including around 10-15 minutes to prepare the dough and filling, 20-25 minutes to bake, and a few minutes to cool before serving. It’s pretty quick and straightforward!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the buttermilk, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more buttermilk. Try not to overwork the dough, or the rolls could turn tough.
2. Prepare the Filling:
Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, then remove from heat. Stir in the crumbled feta, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and herbs. Let the filling cool a little before using.
3. Roll Out and Fill the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12 by 15 inches. Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the dough. Starting at one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape, sealing the edges as you go.
4. Cut and Bake the Rolls:
Slice the rolled dough into 6 to 8 equal pieces, each about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Arrange the rolls cut side up on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush the tops with olive oil for a nice golden finish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They’re wonderful warm or at room temperature as a snack or alongside your meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before cooking to avoid a soggy filling.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using—it works great as a substitute.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor variations.