Picture this: the sun is just starting to rise, casting a warm glow in your kitchen as the scent of sautéed onions and garlic dances invitingly through the air. This morning, I’m treating myself to a Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole – a delightful dish that turns ordinary mornings into something special.
It all began on a chilly Sunday morning when I craved something hearty yet simple, something that packed a punch of flavor without the hassle of complicated preparation. That’s when I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe – it features creamy mascarpone cheese and savory spinach nestled among fluffy English muffins, all topped off with a golden layer of melted Parmesan.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or simply looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing breakfast, this casserole brings comfort and ease to the table. Plus, it requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to sip on your coffee while it bakes to perfection. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s dive in!
Why is this Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole a must-try?
Deliciously satisfying, this casserole marries creamy mascarpone with hearty spinach for a flavor explosion. Effortless preparation means you can enjoy a warm, homemade breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. Versatile enough for brunches or quick weekday breakfasts, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Perfectly golden and cheesy on top, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. If you’re seeking more easy, delightful recipes, check out our collection of easy breakfast ideas.
Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Frozen chopped spinach – Thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole soggy.
- Olive oil – A splash for greasing and sautéing adds flavor and prevents sticking.
- Yellow onion – Chopped finely; sweetness develops when cooked, enhancing the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly chopped for a robust flavor that infuses the whole casserole.
- Mascarpone cheese – This creamy cheese enriches the casserole with velvety texture and flavor.
- Parmesan cheese – Grated for maximum meltability, this will give a delightful crispy topping.
- Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to taste!
- Black pepper – Freshly ground adds depth and a bit of warmth.
- Large eggs – Provides structure and richness to the breakfast casserole.
- Half-and-half – Enhances creaminess; you can substitute with whole milk for a lighter version.
- Crushed red pepper – A dash for a subtle kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
- English muffins – Split in half to soak up all the delicious flavors, making them a perfect base.
For Baking
- Additional olive oil – A light drizzle to grease the baking dish, ensuring effortless serving of your casserole!
This Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole not only warms your mornings but brings a smile with every bite!
How to Make Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole
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Prep the Spinach: Place the spinach on a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible. This step ensures your casserole won’t be soggy. Set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and continue to stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the spinach and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it looks dried out, about 2 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
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Combine Filling Ingredients: Reserve 1/4 cup of the spinach mixture for later. In a medium bowl, mix the remaining spinach with mascarpone cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside.
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Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, crushed red pepper, reserved spinach mixture, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and the remaining salt and black pepper until thoroughly blended.
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Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish. Arrange the bottom halves of the English muffins in the dish in three rows of two. Spread even layers of the spinach-mascarpone mixture over the muffins. Finish by covering with the top halves of the English muffins.
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Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole, gently pressing down on the English muffins to submerge them. Finally, sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan for a golden, crispy top.
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Refrigerate: Cover the dish with foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for up to 12 hours. This chilling time helps all the flavors blend beautifully.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Uncover the casserole and bake until just set and the tops of the English muffins are golden brown, about 45 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
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Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This waiting period allows it to firm up a bit.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftover Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your casserole later, freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: Reheat the baked casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until warm throughout. This helps maintain the casserole’s delicious texture and flavor.
Airtight Storage: For best results, ensure leftovers are stored in a well-sealed container to prevent drying out and preserve that creamy deliciousness.
Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone and half-and-half with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a creamy, plant-based option.
- Gluten-Free: Replace English muffins with gluten-free bread or tortillas, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
- Veggie Boost: Add roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor and nutrition. These vibrant veggies complement the spinach beautifully!
- Italian Twist: Mix in Italian herbs like oregano and basil to give your dish a delightful herbal aroma that transports you straight to Italy.
- Protein-Packed: Toss in some cooked and crumbled sausage or crispy bacon bits for a heartier dish that promises to satisfy the hungriest breakfast lovers.
- Extra Heat: Sprinkle in more crushed red pepper or even diced jalapeños for those who appreciate a spicy kick to their morning meal.
- Cheesy Delight: Go wild with cheese! Mix in some feta or goat cheese along with the mascarpone for a tangy surprise in each mouthful.
- Herbaceous Harmony: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary post-baking for a fragrant finish that elevates every bite.
Each variation offers a unique twist that can turn this Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole into a dish that’s perfectly suited for your table!
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casseroles are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunch preparations! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. To ensure the best taste and texture, prepare the spinach mixture and egg mixture the night before, then assemble and chill. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven to 350°F, bake uncovered for about 45 minutes until golden, and enjoy a deliciously effortless breakfast that’s just as delightful as when made fresh! Don’t hesitate—prep in advance and savor that extra time in the morning.
What to Serve with Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole?
Imagine a leisurely brunch filled with warmth and laughter, perfectly complemented by delightful side dishes.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of strawberries, melons, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s rich flavors, making every bite a celebration.
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Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch of bacon or the bold flavors of sausage creates a delightful balance to the creamy casserole, elevating your breakfast feast.
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Avocado Toast: Smooth, ripe avocado spread on crusty bread introduces a creamy texture and heart-healthy fats to your meal, enhancing the overall experience of each bite.
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Herbed Tomato Salad: Juicy tomatoes tossed with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze creates a vibrant, tangy side that brightens the hearty casserole.
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Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea with its hints of cinnamon and cardamom complements the flavors beautifully and provides a cozy touch to your breakfast spread.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy, crunchy contrast to the casserole, ensuring a delightful mix of textures and flavors on your plate.
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Coffee or Mimosa: Kick-start your morning with a rich cup of coffee or a bubbly mimosa; both drinks amplify flavors and add a celebratory touch to brunch.
Expert Tips for Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole
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Squeeze Tight: Remove excess moisture from spinach by squeezing it tightly. This prevents a soggy casserole and ensures a perfect texture.
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Egg Whisking: Whisk the eggs thoroughly with the half-and-half to incorporate air. This will produce a fluffier texture in the finished casserole.
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Layering Love: Ensure even layering of the spinach-mascarpone mixture and muffin halves. This guarantees every bite of your Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is bursting with flavor.
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Chill Time Matters: Allow the casserole to refrigerate for at least an hour. This not only enhances flavor melding but also assists in setting the casserole when you bake it.
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Oven Check: Cook until the top is golden brown and the center is just set. Avoid overbaking to maintain that creamy, delightful center.
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Serve Warm: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving; this helps it slice neatly and keeps the melty cheese intact.
Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using frozen chopped spinach as it’s convenient and maintains a consistent texture. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for quick enjoyment or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Very! One of the best aspects of this Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole is its ability to be frozen. To do this, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking according to the directions!
What if my casserole turns out too dry?
If you find that your casserole is a bit dry after baking, it may be due to overcooking or excess moisture loss during cooking. To prevent this in the future, keep an eye on the baking time and avoid overbaking. Additionally, you can add more half-and-half or a splash of milk before baking to ensure creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it features a medley of spinach, cheese, and eggs. However, if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, you can replace the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives to accommodate your needs.
How do I know when the casserole is cooked perfectly?
The perfect Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole should be golden brown on top and just set in the center. I recommend inserting a knife in the middle; if it comes out clean, it’s done. Remember to let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving!
Savory Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole for Easy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Spinach: Squeeze moisture from spinach and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil, add onion, and cook until translucent. Add garlic and spinach, cooking until dry.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Mix remaining spinach with mascarpone, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs, half-and-half, crushed red pepper, reserved spinach, and seasonings.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease baking dish and layer English muffins, then add spinach-mascarpone mixture.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour evenly over the casserole and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Refrigerate: Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 45 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.