Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is a savory, hearty dish perfect for brunch, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you need a delicious and filling breakfast. This casserole combines the rich flavors of spinach, eggs, cheese, and seasonings, creating a comforting meal that will please everyone at the table. The spinach provides a mild, slightly earthy flavor, while the cheese adds a creamy and indulgent touch. With its easy preparation and satisfying texture, Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is a go-to recipe for busy mornings or weekend brunches.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch with family and friends, preparing a meal for a special occasion, or simply craving a nutritious breakfast, this casserole checks all the boxes. This guide will walk you through the preparation process, share tips for success, and offer suggestions for making this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole

• Flavorful & Savory: The combination of spinach, eggs, and cheese creates a flavorful, savory dish that satisfies hunger while offering a variety of textures. The eggs bind everything together, while the spinach adds a fresh, healthy touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings. Simply pop it in the oven the next day for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Add bacon or sausage for extra protein, or experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to create your perfect version of the dish.
• Packed with Nutrients: The spinach in this casserole provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, iron, and folate, making this a nutritious choice for a wholesome breakfast or brunch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing breakfast for a family gathering, serving brunch at a party, or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this casserole is sure to impress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 8-10g
• Protein: 14-16g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups fresh spinach (or 1 ½ cups frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 10 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1 cup diced bread (preferably day-old, French bread or whole wheat)
• Optional: 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled (for added protein)

Special Equipment

While this recipe doesn’t require specialized tools, there are a few kitchen items that will make the process easier and ensure great results:

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A large pan is essential for sautéing the onions, garlic, and spinach before adding them to the casserole. This helps develop rich flavors and ensures the spinach is properly wilted.
2. 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is the ideal size for this casserole, ensuring that the mixture bakes evenly. You can also use a slightly smaller or larger dish, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
3. Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is necessary for whisking the eggs and milk together. It’s also where you’ll combine the dry ingredients and fold them into the egg mixture.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to ensuring that the casserole has the right balance of flavors. Make sure to have measuring spoons for the spices and cups for the liquids and cheeses.
5. Casserole Dish Cover or Aluminum Foil: If you’re making the casserole ahead of time, covering the dish with aluminum foil helps prevent the top from browning too quickly. You can remove the cover in the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to get golden and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan. If using fresh spinach, cook it in batches, stirring occasionally until the spinach wilts and reduces in size. This should take about 3-4 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure that it’s thawed and drained well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the pan.

Once the spinach is fully wilted (or the frozen spinach is heated through), remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or heavy cream), salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

3. Assemble the Casserole

In your 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the sautéed spinach mixture evenly along the bottom. Next, sprinkle the diced bread pieces over the spinach. The bread will soak up some of the egg mixture during baking, providing a delicious base that will absorb all the flavors.

Pour the egg mixture over the bread and spinach. Gently shake the dish or use a spoon to ensure the bread is evenly distributed throughout the casserole. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.

If you’re adding cooked bacon or sausage for extra protein, sprinkle it on top of the cheese mixture.

4. Chill the Casserole (Optional)

If you want to make this casserole ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to soak up more of the egg mixture, resulting in a richer, more cohesive casserole.

5. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is heated, uncover the casserole (if it was covered) and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. A knife or toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the casserole is done.

If the top of the casserole begins to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut into neat squares. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach provides the best texture and flavor in this dish. If you use frozen spinach, be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• Don’t Skip the Bread: The bread adds structure and texture to the casserole. Day-old bread or slightly stale bread works best, as it will absorb the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
• Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère, feta, or Parmesan are great alternatives to mozzarella and cheddar. You can also increase or decrease the amount of cheese to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Option: For a stress-free breakfast, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Then, simply bake it in the morning for a warm and satisfying dish.
• Don’t Overmix: When whisking the egg mixture, don’t overmix it. Gently whisk until the eggs and milk are combined. Overbeating can result in a rubbery texture.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables to the casserole, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or tomatoes. Just be sure to sauté any extra vegetables to reduce their moisture before adding them to the dish.

Variations of Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole

• Bacon or Sausage Spinach Florentine Casserole: Add cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage for a savory protein boost. These meats pair perfectly with the richness of the eggs and cheese.
• Gluten-Free Spinach Florentine Casserole: Substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or a gluten-free bread alternative, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for a delicious, gluten-free option.
• Vegan Spinach Florentine Casserole: Replace the eggs and milk with a plant-based egg substitute (such as Just Egg) and use dairy-free cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Tomato Basil Spinach Florentine Casserole: Add fresh diced tomatoes and extra basil for a Mediterranean twist on the classic recipe. The sweetness of the tomatoes complements the savory flavors of spinach and cheese.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake the entire casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.

You can also freeze this casserole for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole

Pair this casserole with complementary sides to make a complete breakfast or brunch:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the casserole and adds a burst of vitamins.
• Crusty Bread or Toast: Serve the casserole with a side of warm, toasted bread or a crusty baguette for a more filling meal.
• Fresh Juice or Smoothie: Pair the casserole with a fresh orange juice or a green smoothie for a well-rounded breakfast.
• Avocado Slices: A few slices of creamy avocado add a healthy, flavorful touch that pairs beautifully with the casserole.

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Conclusion

Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is a delicious, comforting, and versatile dish that will be a hit at any breakfast or brunch gathering. With its savory flavors, creamy texture, and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying it on a quiet morning, Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to start your day.