Cheesy Spinach Breakfast Casserole Simple Recipe

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Start your day with a delicious and easy cheesy spinach breakfast casserole! This simple recipe packs fresh spinach, sharp cheddar, and vibrant veggies into a hearty meal. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even kids will love. In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a delightful dish that you can customize. Let’s dive in and whip up this tasty breakfast together!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy mornings.
2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers, this dish is a great way to start your day with wholesome veggies.
3. Cheesy Goodness: The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor and creaminess that everyone will love.
4. Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a flexible recipe for any taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 6 large eggs

– 1 cup whole milk

– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Additional Ingredients

– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, green, or a mix)

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 1 cup ripe tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)

Seasoning and Extras

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon olive oil

– 4 slices of whole grain bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

– Optional: Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish

Gather these items before you start. Each ingredient adds its own flavor and texture. The eggs hold everything together, while cheese adds a rich taste. Fresh spinach brings a nice color and nutrition. Bell peppers and tomatoes add sweetness and freshness. Don’t forget the spices; they make the dish pop!

You can use any type of bread you have. Whole grain works great, but you can switch it up based on your taste. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy mixing these ingredients to create a tasty breakfast casserole!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Dish

– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

First, you need to get your oven hot. Preheating helps cook the casserole evenly. While the oven warms, grab your baking dish. A 9×13-inch dish works best for this recipe. Make sure to coat it with olive oil. This step stops the casserole from sticking.

Sautéing Vegetables

– Heat olive oil in a skillet.

– Sauté onion and bell peppers until softened.

– Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Next, take a skillet and add some olive oil. Heat it on medium. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and diced bell peppers. Stir them for about five minutes. You want them soft and the onion to be clear. Now, add the chopped spinach. Cook it until it wilts, which takes about two to three minutes.

Mixing the Casserole

– Whisk eggs and milk in a bowl.

– Combine sautéed vegetables, tomatoes, and cheese.

– Fold in bread cubes and transfer to baking dish.

After cooking the veggies, grab a large bowl. In it, whisk six eggs and one cup of milk. Mix in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Next, add your sautéed veggies, diced tomatoes, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Carefully fold in the cubed bread. Make sure each piece is covered in the egg mix. Then, pour this mixture into your greased baking dish.

Baking the Casserole

– Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

– Allow cooling time before slicing.

Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top turns golden brown. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This cooling time helps it set. Now you can slice and serve it warm. Enjoy your cheesy spinach breakfast casserole!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Texture

To make a fluffy casserole, use fresh eggs. Eggs give the dish its rise and texture. Whisk them well with milk to get air in the mix. This helps create that light, fluffy feel.

For bread, whole grain works best. It soaks up the egg mixture well. You can also use sourdough or a crusty baguette. These types give great flavor and texture.

Enhancing Flavor

Add herbs like parsley or chives. They bring brightness to the dish. You can also sprinkle in some dried oregano or basil for extra depth.

For cheese, sharp cheddar is a classic choice. To mix things up, try mozzarella or pepper jack. These cheeses add creaminess and a nice flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the casserole with fresh fruit. Sliced berries or melons make a great side. You can also serve it with yogurt or a light salad.

For garnishing, sprinkle fresh herbs on top. They add color and freshness. A drizzle of olive oil can enhance the look too. Enjoy your beautiful and tasty meal!

Variations

Protein Additions

You can boost the protein in your casserole. Adding cooked sausage or bacon gives a nice flavor. Just cook your meat first, then mix it in. If you want a vegetarian option, try tofu or chickpeas. Both options add protein and keep it hearty.

Vegetarian Options

If you want to make it vegan, you can replace cheese with plant-based alternatives. There are many great vegan cheeses that melt well. Also, think about using seasonal vegetables. Fresh zucchini, mushrooms, or squash can add color and taste.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free bread. Many brands offer good options that taste great. You can also adjust other ingredients, like using gluten-free flour if you want a thicker texture. Always check labels to ensure all your ingredients are safe.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool down first. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This method keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days.

For reheating, slice the casserole into portions. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. Check if it’s warm throughout. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F. Heat the slices for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely. Cut it into serving-sized pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then put them into freezer bags. This keeps them fresh for up to three months.

When you’re ready to eat, take a piece out of the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, you can use the microwave or oven. If using the oven, heat it at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure it’s heated all the way through.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the cheesy spinach breakfast casserole lasts about four days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to three months.

Signs of spoilage include an off smell, mold, or a change in texture. If you notice any of these, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.

FAQs

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole the night before. This method saves time in the morning. To do this, prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and place it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Frozen spinach works well for this dish. Just make sure to thaw it first. Squeeze out any extra water to avoid a soggy casserole. Fresh spinach has a brighter flavor, but frozen is a great time-saver. If you use frozen, you can skip the sautéing step.

What types of cheese can I use?

You can swap sharp cheddar for other cheeses. Try mozzarella for a mild taste. Feta adds a tangy kick. Cream cheese makes it rich and creamy. You can also mix cheeses for more flavor. Just make sure to use cheese that melts well.

Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version. Use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. For cheese, look for dairy-free alternatives. Vegan cream cheese can add creaminess. Always check labels to ensure there are no dairy ingredients.

This blog post shared a simple recipe for a spinach and cheddar casserole. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips to improve flavor and texture. Consider adding protein or making it gluten-free to suit your needs. Store leftovers properly and explore variations for a personalized dish. Casseroles are versatile and easy to adapt, making them a great choice for any meal. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite versio

Cheesy Spinach Breakfast Casserole

A delicious and hearty breakfast casserole packed with eggs, spinach, and cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 4 slices whole grain bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion along with the diced bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
• Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Once wilted, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. Then, mix in the garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
• Add the sautéed vegetable mixture, diced tomatoes, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Carefully fold in the cubed bread, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
• Transfer the entire casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a nice golden crust.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is set and the top is beautifully golden brown.
• After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool and firm up before slicing.
• Serve warm, optionally garnished with freshly chopped herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

Optional: Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives can be used for garnish.

Keyword breakfast, casserole, cheese, spinach

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