Oh, breakfast casseroles are like the cozy hug of the morning meal! They’re warm, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or just yourself on a lazy Sunday. My absolute favorite is the spinach florentine breakfast casserole. It’s packed with vibrant spinach, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs, making it a deliciously nutritious way to start the day. I remember making this for a special brunch with friends, and the smiles on their faces as they took their first bites were priceless. Trust me, this dish is bound to become a cherished morning tradition in your home too!
Ingredients List
For the spinach florentine breakfast casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
6 large eggs
1 cup milk, whole or low-fat
1 cup packed shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella
1 cup diced bread, preferably whole grain for added nutrition
1/2 cup chopped onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, for a hint of flavor
Salt and pepper to taste, to enhance all the lovely flavors
These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare!
How to Prepare the Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole
Now, let’s dive into making this delightful spinach florentine breakfast casserole! I promise, it’s easier than it looks, and the aromas that fill your kitchen will make it all worth it.
Preheat and Sauté
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly set. While that’s heating up, grab a skillet and sauté the chopped onions over medium heat until they’re translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes, and trust me, the sweet smell of onions cooking is just heavenly!
Combine the Ingredients
Once those onions are ready, toss in the chopped spinach and cook until it’s wilted, which should only take a couple of minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and frothy. This is where the magic happens—those eggs will bind everything together beautifully!
Layering the Casserole
Now, it’s time to assemble your casserole! In a greased baking dish, start with a layer of diced bread, which will serve as a lovely base. Next, add the sautéed spinach and onions, and then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese on top. Each layer adds a wonderful texture and flavor!
Baking Instructions
Pour that delicious egg mixture over the layered goodness and give it a little shake to settle everything in. Now, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set—no jiggle! Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and get ready for the deliciousness that awaits you!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk nutrition! This spinach florentine breakfast casserole is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome way to start your day. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use, but it’s a great estimate for a hearty breakfast!
Healthy ingredients like fresh spinach and eggs pack a nutritious punch.
Versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses.
Great for meal prep; make it ahead and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Crowd-pleasing and satisfying, ideal for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
Tips for Success
To ensure your spinach florentine breakfast casserole turns out perfectly, here are some of my go-to tips! First, make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the spinach after cooking; this helps prevent a soggy casserole. If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen works too—just thaw and drain it. For a flavor boost, consider adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese along with your cheddar. And if you want to make it ahead, prepare everything the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning. Trust me, these little tweaks make a big difference!
Variations
The beauty of this spinach florentine breakfast casserole is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a colorful twist, try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick. If you’re a cheese lover, swap out the cheddar for feta or pepper jack to give it a zesty flair. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or even cooked quinoa as the base. You can also make it vegan by using chickpea flour mixed with water instead of eggs and a plant-based cheese. The possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store any leftovers of your spinach florentine breakfast casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This way, you’ll maintain that lovely texture and flavor!
Serving Suggestions
To complete your spinach florentine breakfast casserole, I love serving it with a side of fresh fruit—think juicy berries or sweet melon slices for a refreshing contrast! A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on top adds a nice tanginess, too. You could also whip up a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery kick. And don’t forget a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea to wash it all down. These pairings make for the perfect breakfast spread!
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