Are you searching for a breakfast dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying? Look no further than this Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole. Packed with fresh spinach, creamy eggs, melty cheese, and aromatic seasonings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s as elegant as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving a hearty breakfast, this casserole has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time. Plus, we’ll cover serving suggestions, storage advice, and answers to common questions so you can master this recipe like a pro. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
To create this mouthwatering Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to form a harmonious blend of flavors and textures:
- Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is sautéed until wilted, adding a vibrant pop of color and a boost of nutrients. If you’re short on time, frozen spinach works just as well—just make sure it’s thawed and drained thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Eggs: The star of the dish, eggs are whisked with milk to create a custard-like base that binds all the ingredients. For a lighter option, you can use egg whites or liquid egg substitutes.
- Milk (or Half-and-Half): Milk adds creaminess to the egg mixture, while half-and-half or heavy cream creates an even richer texture. Choose based on your preference and dietary needs.
- Cheese: Shredded cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss, adds gooeyness and flavor. Experiment with gourmet options like feta, goat cheese, or Gruyère for a unique twist.
- Onion and Garlic: Finely diced onion and minced garlic infuse the dish with savory depth.
- Butter or Olive Oil: A drizzle of butter or olive oil ensures the spinach and onions sauté evenly without sticking.
- Bread Cubes (Optional): For a heartier casserole, layer bread cubes at the bottom of the dish. Omit them for a low-carb or keto-friendly version.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg enhance the flavors. Nutmeg is optional but adds a classic Florentine touch.
Now that you know what goes into this casserole, let’s move on to the detailed instructions for preparing it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray, butter, or olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures the casserole will slide out easily after baking.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter or heat a drizzle of olive oil. Add finely diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Next, add the fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) and cook until wilted. If using fresh spinach, be sure to drain any excess moisture before setting it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in shredded cheese, reserving a small handful for topping the casserole later.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
If using bread cubes, spread them evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, layer the sautéed spinach mixture on top of the bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the spinach, ensuring it spreads across the entire surface of the dish for even cooking. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, gently shake the dish—the center should be set and no longer jiggly. Alternatively, insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A side of mixed berries, melons, or citrus fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Green Salad: Toss together a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy complement.
- Hash Browns or Roasted Potatoes: Crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes add a satisfying crunch to the meal.
- Avocado Toast: Top slices of toasted bread with mashed avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a trendy twist.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and honey for a light and healthy complement.
For a brunch gathering, consider setting up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped herbs so guests can customize their servings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this breakfast casserole are just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Refrigeration: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To retain the texture and flavor, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
If you’ve prepared the casserole ahead of time, simply cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for a hassle-free meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:
- Can I make this recipe the night before?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free experience. - Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure the frozen spinach is thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture. - What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Mozzarella, cheddar, and Swiss are all excellent choices, but feel free to experiment with feta, goat cheese, or Gruyère for a gourmet twist. - Can I skip the bread cubes?
Yes! Omitting the bread cubes makes this a lighter, low-carb dish. - How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Ensure the spinach is well-drained and avoid adding excess liquid to the egg mixture. - Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, liquid egg substitutes or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites work perfectly in this recipe. - What sides go well with this casserole?
Pair it with fresh fruit, a green salad, crispy hash browns, or avocado toast for a complete meal. - Can I add cream instead of milk?
Yes, using half-and-half or heavy cream will make the casserole richer and creamier. - How can I tell when the casserole is done?
The center should be set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken. You can also test with a knife; it should come out clean. - Can I scale the recipe up or down?
Yes! Adjust the ingredient quantities based on the size of your baking dish and the number of servings needed.
Conclusion
This Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to start your day, offering a perfect balance of hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. With its creamy texture, vibrant spinach, and customizable options, it’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a holiday meal, or simply meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Follow the detailed instructions, storage tips, and FAQs provided here to ensure your Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time. Try this recipe today and savor the combination of flavors in every bite—it’s sure to brighten your mornings!
Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh spinach (chopped, or frozen spinach thawed and drained)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 2 cups bread cubes (optional, for a heartier casserole)
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a classic Florentine touch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray, butter, or olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted (if using fresh). Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
- If using bread cubes, spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the spinach mixture evenly on top of the bread cubes (or directly on the bottom of the dish if omitting bread). Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and top with the reserved cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, gently shake the dish—the center should no longer jiggle, or insert a knife; it should come out clean.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve warm.
