Spring Brunch Egg Casserole With Spinach
Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas
When planning a delightful spring brunch, I often turn to this egg casserole with spinach. It's more than just a dish; it's a canvas for flavor and texture! I love how the creamy eggs blend perfectly with the fresh spinach and cheese, creating a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, easily serving a crowd. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it'll become a go-to in your brunch rotation.
I remember the first time I made this Spring Brunch Egg Casserole. I had just returned from the farmer's market with a bounty of fresh spinach, and I wanted to showcase its vibrant flavor. The layers of eggs, cheese, and spinach create a beautiful presentation, and when I took the first bite, it was pure bliss. The combination of creamy and savory elements made this dish shine at our brunch table!
When preparing this casserole, I learned that letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice. I also enjoy adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top right before serving, which adds a touch of freshness that elevates the dish. It’s these little details that turn a simple casserole into a memorable centerpiece for any gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy eggs and fresh spinach.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
- A versatile dish that allows for endless ingredient variations.
Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh spinach is crucial for bringing vibrant color and optimal flavor to this casserole. Fresh spinach has a lighter, more delicate taste compared to frozen, which can sometimes be overly watery. When you sauté the spinach with onions, aim for a bright green color and a wilted texture – this typically takes about three minutes. This step not only enhances the spinach's flavor but also prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.
The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses not only adds rich flavor but also contributes to the casserole's texture. Cheddar melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey layer, while Parmesan offers a slightly nutty, salty finish on top. For a unique twist, try substituting half of the cheddar with feta or goat cheese to introduce a tangy element that pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach.
Baking to Perfection
When you bake the casserole, keep a close eye on the color of the edges. You want the top to turn a lovely golden brown. This usually takes around 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). An effective way to check if your casserole is done is to insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it's ready. If you find that the top is browning too quickly, lightly cover it with aluminum foil in the last five to seven minutes of baking to prevent burning.
To achieve a soufflé-like texture, whisk the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air. This is a simple yet effective technique that can dramatically enhance the dish's fluffiness. Ensure your egg mixture is well blended before pouring over the sautéed veggies. If you find your egg mixture is too thick, adding an extra tablespoon or two of milk can help reach the desired consistency for a lighter texture.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Spring Brunch Egg Casserole with Spinach:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can begin bringing this beautiful casserole to life!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Spring Brunch Egg Casserole with Spinach:
Preheat and Sauté
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, around 3 minutes.
Mix the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
Combine and Bake
Spread the sautéed onions and spinach evenly in a greased casserole dish. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, then sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Enjoy your delicious, homemade dish!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding cooked sausage or diced bell peppers to the mix! You can also substitute different cheeses according to your preference.
Make-Ahead Options
This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead option, as the flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit. Prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the fridge before baking. When you're ready to serve the next morning, just pop it in the oven. If baking from cold, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through properly.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes for a quick and satisfying breakfast or lunch option during a busy week.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, garnish your baked casserole with fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, just before serving. This not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a fresh burst of flavor. Pairing the casserole with a light side salad or fresh fruit can balance the richness, making for a well-rounded meal.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings as well! Sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish, while hot sauce adds a zesty kick. If you’re serving a crowd, consider creating a brunch bar with optional toppings for your guests to customize their servings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning.
→ What can I substitute for spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard would work great as a substitute for spinach!
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just slice the casserole into portions, freeze in an airtight container, and reheat when needed.
→ How can I reduce the calories in this recipe?
You can use egg whites instead of whole eggs and low-fat milk to lighten it up.
Spring Brunch Egg Casserole With Spinach
When planning a delightful spring brunch, I often turn to this egg casserole with spinach. It's more than just a dish; it's a canvas for flavor and texture! I love how the creamy eggs blend perfectly with the fresh spinach and cheese, creating a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, easily serving a crowd. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it'll become a go-to in your brunch rotation.
Created by: Emma Parker
Recipe Type: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, around 3 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
Spread the sautéed onions and spinach evenly in a greased casserole dish. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, then sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding cooked sausage or diced bell peppers to the mix! You can also substitute different cheeses according to your preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g