There’s something absolutely magical about hosting a festive brunch de noël. The air is filled with the scent of warm bread and melting cheese, and as friends and family gather around the table, joy and laughter seem to flow as freely as the mimosas! I remember the first time I tried blending traditional dishes with some modern twists—it was a game changer! The combination of classic flavors like ham and cheese with fresh spinach made for a deliciously memorable spread. Plus, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday spirit while creating new traditions. Trust me, serving this delightful brunch will leave your guests raving about it long after the last slice is gone. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the deliciousness of a Christmas brunch that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey goodness!)
- 1 cup diced ham (You can also use turkey or sausage if you prefer!)
- 1 cup chopped spinach (Fresh is best, but frozen will work too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well!)
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed (A nice crusty bread adds so much texture—sourdough or French bread are perfect choices!)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (This is for greasing the pan and adding flavor!)
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs, chopped (Think parsley, chives, or even a little thyme for extra flavor!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really brings everything to life!)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and beautifully.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs and milk until well combined—this is where the magic begins!
- Now, add in the shredded cheese, diced ham, chopped spinach, fresh herbs, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s all coated in that eggy goodness.
- Next, grease a baking dish with the unsalted butter. This helps your brunch de noël come out of the dish without any fuss!
- Layer the cubed bread at the bottom of the dish. Make sure it’s nice and even—this will soak up all those delicious flavors!
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, spreading it out gently so every piece gets a taste of that creamy goodness.
- Now, it’s time to bake! Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and set in the middle.
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—just 15 minutes to get everything ready!
- Feeds a hungry group with 6 generous servings, perfect for your festive brunch de noël!
- Totally customizable! You can swap in your favorite ingredients—add some roasted veggies or switch up the cheese!
- Ideal for festive gatherings, bringing everyone together with its warm, comforting flavors.
- Easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy the party without being stuck in the kitchen!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your brunch de noël turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to elevate your dish:
- Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t have ham on hand? No problem! You can easily swap it out for cooked bacon, turkey, or even a hearty veggie mix for a vegetarian version. Just make sure whatever you use is pre-cooked to save time.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses! Feta adds a lovely tang, while pepper jack gives a spicy kick. Mix and match to find your favorite combo—cheese is always a winner!
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: A little extra salt and pepper goes a long way! Taste your egg mixture before baking to adjust the seasoning if needed. Remember, it’s all about flavor!
- Perfect Baking: Keep an eye on it as it bakes. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning while it cooks through.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some fresh fruit to balance out the richness. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!
- Make-Ahead Magic: Feel free to prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pour it over the bread in the morning and bake—you’ll be the brunch superstar without the morning chaos!
With these tips, you’re all set for a delicious and festive gathering that your friends and family will remember for years to come!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some delicious leftovers from your brunch de noël? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat them so that they taste just as amazing as when they first came out of the oven.
First, let the dish cool completely to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, slice it into individual portions for easy storage. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This will keep them fresh and prevent any fridge odors from sneaking in!
You’ll want to store your leftovers in the refrigerator if you’re planning to eat them within 3-4 days. If you’re thinking longer term, feel free to freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply transfer them to the fridge the night before to thaw.
For reheating, the best method is to pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but I suggest covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Just heat in 30-second intervals until hot, but be careful not to overdo it—nobody likes rubbery eggs!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be enjoying your festive brunch de noël leftovers in no time!
Nutritional Information
As with any recipe, the nutritional information for this brunch de noël can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can’t provide exact numbers, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Don’t forget, these values can change based on how you customize your dish, so feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your dietary needs. Enjoy your delicious and festive brunch with peace of mind!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it over the bread in the morning and bake. This way, you’ll have more time to enjoy your brunch de noël with your guests!
What can I substitute for the ham?
If ham isn’t your thing, no worries! You can easily swap it for bacon, turkey, or even a mix of roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option. Just make sure that whatever you choose is pre-cooked to save you time.
How do I make it vegetarian-friendly?
To make this brunch de noël dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add in some delicious sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. You’ll still get that hearty flavor without the meat!
Can I use a different type of bread?
Definitely! While I recommend a nice crusty bread like sourdough or French bread, you can use whatever you have on hand. Brioche or even whole grain bread works beautifully too—just be mindful of the texture difference!
How do I reheat leftovers?
For the best results, reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals to keep it moist!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your brunch de noël experience, consider adding a few delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of the main dish. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, oranges, and kiwi not only adds color but also a refreshing contrast to the savory egg bake. You can drizzle a bit of honey or sprinkle some mint for that extra touch!
- Side Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can brighten up the table and balance the richness of the main dish. I love adding a few nuts or seeds for crunch!
- Pastries: Flaky croissants or buttery danishes are a perfect addition, making your brunch feel even more indulgent. You can even offer a variety of spreads like jam, cream cheese, or butter for guests to enjoy.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and berries can be a delightful treat. It’s light, nutritious, and adds a touch of elegance to your brunch spread!
- Mimosas or Bloody Marys: Don’t forget the drinks! A classic mimosa or a zesty Bloody Mary pairs beautifully with your festive brunch, setting the mood for a cheerful gathering.
These sides not only enhance the overall experience but also give your guests a little something extra to enjoy alongside their delicious slice of brunch de noël. Happy serving!
Print
Brunch de Noël: 7 Magical Tips for a Memorable Feast
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive Christmas brunch featuring a variety of traditional and modern dishes.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 loaf of bread
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup chopped herbs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Add cheese, ham, spinach, herbs, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Layer bread at the bottom of the dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with fresh fruit or a side salad.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: brunch de noël, Christmas brunch, festive brunch
