Spring Brunch Egg Casserole With Spinach
Highlighted under: Spring Seasonal Food Collection
I love preparing this Spring Brunch Egg Casserole With Spinach for gatherings with family and friends. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy eggs, and savory cheese creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any springtime celebration. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making my morning stress-free! This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Trust me, this hearty casserole will become a favorite on your brunch table!
When I first whipped up this casserole, I was astonished by how the flavors melded together so beautifully. Using fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color but also a nutritious boost. I recommend sautéing the spinach first to bring out its richness, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
As I started serving this to friends, the compliments just flowed! I discovered that letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice. Trust me; it’s worth the wait for that perfect slice!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh spinach provides essential nutrients and a vibrant color
- Quick assembly makes it a hassle-free option for brunch
- Easily customizable with your choice of ingredients
Ingredient Insights
The use of fresh spinach in this casserole not only adds a beautiful green hue but also provides a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A and K. When sautéed, spinach wilts down significantly, so don’t be alarmed by the quantity; about two cups will reduce to a manageable amount when cooked. This transformation also intensifies its flavor, making each bite rich and savory.
Choosing the right cheese can elevate your casserole even more. While cheddar is a classic option due to its melting qualities and bold flavor, you might also consider using feta for a tangy kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends as well, which can enhance the depth of flavor and create a more complex profile in the finished dish.
Techniques for Success
Properly whisking the eggs and milk is crucial for creating a light, fluffy texture in the casserole. Take a few extra minutes to ensure that the mixture is thoroughly combined and slightly frothy; this aeration will help the casserole rise and stay tender while baking. Additionally, pouring the egg mixture slowly into the greased baking dish ensures that it spreads evenly, preventing uneven cooking.
If you're looking to add some extra flair to your casserole, consider including diced bell peppers or mushrooms along with your spinach and onions. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall texture. Just remember to sauté any additional vegetables until they're tender before mixing them into the egg mixture to ensure they blend smoothly in the final bake.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delightful Egg Casserole:
Egg Casserole Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your casserole:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Sauté the Spinach and Onions
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, then remove from heat.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed spinach and onions, diced tomatoes, and half of the shredded cheese.
Combine and Bake
Pour the egg mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For a heartier casserole, consider adding cooked sausage or bacon. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best features of this egg casserole is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the entire dish the night before, following all steps up to the baking part. Cover the assembled casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then bake it as directed. This is especially helpful for busy brunch mornings.
If you're planning to serve leftovers, consider storing the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, slice individual portions and warm them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring it stays moist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Spring Brunch Egg Casserole with a light side salad for a fresh contrast, or serve it alongside some crispy bacon or sausage for a more hearty meal. A drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also add an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the vibrant ingredients in the casserole.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider offering hot sauce or a spicy salsa on the side. This can dramatically change the flavor profile and cater to various taste preferences in your brunch crowd. Remember to garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh spinach before serving for an appealing presentation!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and simply bake in the morning.
→ What other cheeses can I use?
You can use any type of cheese you like! Feta or mozzarella would work beautifully as well.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture from the frozen spinach before adding it to the mixture.
Spring Brunch Egg Casserole With Spinach
I love preparing this Spring Brunch Egg Casserole With Spinach for gatherings with family and friends. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy eggs, and savory cheese creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any springtime celebration. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making my morning stress-free! This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Trust me, this hearty casserole will become a favorite on your brunch table!
Created by: Nola Patterson
Recipe Type: Spring Seasonal Food Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Egg Casserole Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, then remove from heat.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed spinach and onions, diced tomatoes, and half of the shredded cheese.
Pour the egg mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For a heartier casserole, consider adding cooked sausage or bacon. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 330mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 22g