1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing the vegetables and any optional add-ins for the casserole. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and any other vegetables you’re using. If you’re using meat (ham or sausage), make sure it’s cooked and chopped into small pieces. For the spinach, if you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture. Fresh spinach should be chopped and wilted in a pan with a little olive oil.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. If you’re using other vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, add them to the skillet as well and cook until they’re tender. If you’re using meat, add it to the pan now, and cook until heated through. Once everything is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Egg Base

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and whisk them together. Add the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This egg mixture will serve as the base of the casserole, and the seasonings add flavor throughout.

4. Combine the Ingredients

Once the egg base is prepared, add the sautéed vegetables (and meat, if using) to the bowl with the eggs. Then, add the shredded cheese and spinach. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. At this point, you can taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

5. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil, cooking spray, or butter. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center – it should come out clean when the casserole is done.

6. Cool and Serve

Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing it into squares. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro for added flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy!