Eggs Florentine Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic brunch dish, combining the rich flavors of creamy spinach, perfectly cooked eggs, and melted cheese in one comforting bake. This casserole is layered with sautéed spinach, eggs, and a luscious cream sauce, then baked to perfection for a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch, a holiday breakfast, or even a special weekend meal, this dish offers the beloved flavors of Eggs Florentine with the convenience of a make-ahead casserole. Serve it with fresh fruit or a crisp salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices of bread, cubed (optional, for a heartier casserole)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish.
- Sauté the Spinach:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly drained before adding it to the skillet. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the sautéed spinach mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If using, scatter the bread cubes over the spinach for added texture.
- Pour the egg mixture over the spinach (and bread, if using). Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. The casserole should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Eggs Florentine Casserole is a luxurious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any brunch or breakfast gathering. Its creamy, cheesy layers and the subtle earthiness of spinach make it a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, sure to impress your guests.
