Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this spinach florentine breakfast casserole that’s become a staple in my kitchen! It’s not just any breakfast dish; it’s a hearty, flavor-packed way to start your day, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Packed with fresh spinach, protein-rich eggs, and just the right amount of cheese, this casserole is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients that keep you energized.
I remember the first time I made this dish for a brunch gathering with friends. The moment I pulled it out of the oven, the smell of sautéed spinach and melted cheese filled the air, and I just knew it was going to be a hit. Everyone devoured it, asking for seconds and even thirds! It was so satisfying to watch my pals enjoy something that’s not only tasty but also healthy. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that I often make it on weekends for a cozy family breakfast.
This casserole is super versatile too! You can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand or even switch up the cheese. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good and gives you that comforting hug in the morning. So, if you’re looking for a nutritious, hearty breakfast that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress, this recipe is definitely for you!
Ingredients List
- 8 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using cheddar, but feel free to get creative!)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned work just fine)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the spinach)
How to Prepare the Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole
Preheat and Prepare
Alright, let’s get started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because starting with a hot oven ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top we all love. While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish (I usually go for a 9×13 inch dish) and give it a light coating of cooking spray or a quick rub with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Cook the Spinach
Next, let’s move on to the star of the show: the spinach! In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chopped spinach. You’ll want to cook it just until it’s wilted and vibrant green, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Don’t overcook it! You want to keep that fresh flavor and a bit of texture. Make sure to stir occasionally, and if it looks like it’s sticking, just lower the heat a touch.
Mix the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs and 1 cup of milk until it’s nice and frothy. Then, add in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper—don’t be shy! Stir in the wilted spinach, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese until everything is well combined. This mixture should smell heavenly already! Pour this delicious blend into your prepared baking dish, and spread it out evenly so every bite gets that gorgeous flavor.
Bake the Casserole
Time to bake! Pop your casserole in the oven and let it work its magic for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. While it bakes, the aroma will fill your kitchen, and you might just find yourself doing a little happy dance! Once it’s ready, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing—this helps it firm up a bit and makes serving so much easier. Trust me, you’ll want to let it rest; it’ll be worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This casserole comes together in a flash! With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious breakfast ready to pop in the oven.
- Nutrient-Packed: It’s loaded with fresh spinach, eggs, and cheese, giving you a boost of vitamins and protein to kickstart your day.
- Versatile: Feel free to switch up the veggies or cheese based on what you have in your fridge. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of feta can make it your own!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake it in the morning—perfect for busy weekdays or brunch gatherings.
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! It’s filling enough to satisfy everyone at the table.
- Leftover-Friendly: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), it reheats beautifully for an easy next-day breakfast.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your spinach florentine breakfast casserole turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my top tips to ensure it’s a hit:
- Fresh Spinach is Key: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftover spinach from another recipe, you can toss that in too! Just make sure to wilt it down first.
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Remember, you want that vibrant green color and fresh taste. Overcooking can make it soggy, so just wilt it for a few minutes until it’s tender.
- Cheese Choices: I love cheddar, but you can totally mix it up! Try mozzarella for a milder taste, or go bold with feta or pepper jack if you want a little kick!
- Mix in More Veggies: Feel free to add in other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini. Just make sure to cook them down with the spinach so they blend nicely into the casserole.
- Make it Your Own: Don’t hesitate to throw in some herbs or spices! A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil can elevate the flavor even more.
- Check for Doneness: Always check the center with a toothpick or knife. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go! If it’s still runny, pop it back in for a few more minutes.
- Cool Before Slicing: Giving it a few minutes to cool helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it gives you just enough time to set the table!
With these tips, your casserole will not only be delicious but also so satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into each slice of this spinach florentine breakfast casserole! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving—just keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 18g
This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic source of protein and healthy fats, thanks to the eggs and cheese. Plus, the fresh spinach adds a delightful boost of vitamins and minerals! So, you can feel good about starting your day with this satisfying breakfast that nourishes both your body and soul.
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this spinach florentine breakfast casserole is that you can prepare it the night before. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, you can bake it straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cheddar or want to try something different, you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor or feta for a tangy kick. You could even go with a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that each type of cheese can change the flavor profile a bit!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing it up. Trust me, it makes for a fantastic quick breakfast during the week!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then slice it and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
No worries! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This way, you won’t end up with a soggy casserole!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those leftovers from your spinach florentine breakfast casserole fresh and delicious! First off, once your casserole has cooled completely, slice it into individual portions. This makes it so much easier to grab a quick breakfast later on!
To store, place the slices in an airtight container—this helps lock in moisture and keeps everything tasting just as yummy as when it first came out of the oven. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, it’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need something quick and satisfying!
If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it! Just wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just take it out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Easy-peasy!
Now, when it comes time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options. For the best results, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through. This will help maintain that lovely texture. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it in short bursts of about 30 seconds at a time, checking in between to make sure it doesn’t get too hot. Nobody likes rubbery eggs!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your delicious casserole throughout the week without losing any of that amazing flavor. Happy eating!
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Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole: 5 Bold Benefits
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty spinach florentine breakfast casserole packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 8 cups fresh spinach
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked spinach, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- This casserole can be made ahead and reheated.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: spinach florentine breakfast casserole
