Savory Mushroom Spinach Breakfast

This spinach and mushroom breakfast casserole has become my weekend meal prep hero, saving me from mundane weekday breakfasts while delivering serious nutrition. The earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach create a vegetable-forward foundation that pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and fluffy eggs.

I first made this casserole when hosting a brunch for my in laws, and it was such a hit that it's now requested at every family gathering. The beauty lies in its simplicity and how it enables me to start my mornings with a vegetable packed meal.

Ingredients

• Cremini mushrooms: they add a meaty texture and earthy flavor but white button mushrooms work too if that's what you have available
• Fresh spinach: provides vibrant color and nutrition look for bright crisp leaves without any yellowing
• Goat cheese: delivers tangy creaminess that elevates this dish beyond basic egg bakes choose a soft variety for the best melting quality
• Green onions: add a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish select ones with firm white parts and bright green tops
• Large eggs: create the protein rich foundation seek out pasture raised eggs for the best flavor and nutrition
• Garlic: infuses aromatic depth into the vegetables fresh cloves will provide more potent flavor than pre minced varieties
• Milk: helps create a fluffy egg texture whole milk delivers the best richness but any milk works
• Olive oil: for sautéing extra virgin adds a slight flavor boost but regular olive oil is fine too

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Baking Dish:

Thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish ensuring you get into all corners and sides. This crucial step prevents sticking which can ruin presentation and make cleanup difficult. While the oven preheats to 350°F, gather and prepare all your ingredients so the cooking process flows smoothly.

Sauté The Vegetables:

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until it shimmers slightly. Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer if possible allowing them to get nicely browned which develops deeper flavor. After about 3 minutes they should release their moisture and become tender. This mushroom base creates the rich savory foundation for the entire casserole.

Wilt The Spinach:

Add spinach and minced garlic to the mushrooms watching as the heat transforms the spinach from voluminous leaves to a compact wilted mixture. Continue cooking for 3 minutes stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Season with salt and pepper at this stage which infuses the vegetables with flavor from the start rather than just seasoning the egg mixture.

Layer The Base Ingredients:

Transfer your cooked vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish spreading it into an even layer that will ensure consistent flavor in every bite. Sprinkle the sliced green onions evenly across the top which adds pops of color and mild onion flavor. Crumble half the goat cheese over everything allowing for pockets of tangy creaminess throughout the casserole.

Prepare And Add Egg Mixture:

In a large bowl vigorously whisk the eggs and milk until completely combined with no streaks of egg white visible. Season with salt and pepper remembering that properly seasoned eggs make all the difference in a breakfast casserole. Pour this mixture slowly over the vegetable and cheese layer allowing it to fill in all spaces. Finish by crumbling the remaining goat cheese on top which will create beautiful browned spots while baking.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes watching for the edges to turn slightly golden and the center to set completely. The casserole should have a slight jiggle in the center but not appear wet or runny. If the top browns too quickly before the center sets cover loosely with foil for the remaining cooking time.

Rest And Serve:

Remove the finished casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes as this helps the eggs set completely making for cleaner slices. Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives for a burst of color and mild onion flavor. Cut into squares and serve while still warm allowing everyone to appreciate the layers of vegetables eggs and cheese.

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The goat cheese in this recipe transforms an ordinary egg bake into something special. I discovered its magic when I ran out of cheddar one morning and had to improvise. The tangy creaminess creates these heavenly pockets throughout the casserole that burst with flavor when you bite into them. My daughter who claimed to hate goat cheese now requests this casserole specifically for the cheese element.

Storage Solutions

This casserole excels as a meal prep option. After cooling completely cut into individual portions and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator where they'll keep beautifully for up to 4 days. For quick weekday breakfasts microwave a piece for 60 to 90 seconds or until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months – just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Customization Options

This recipe serves as a fantastic template that welcomes endless variations. Replace cremini mushrooms with bell peppers roasted sweet potatoes or asparagus depending on the season. Swap spinach for kale Swiss chard or arugula adjusting cooking time as needed for tougher greens. The goat cheese can be substituted with feta for a sharper flavor cream cheese for added richness or a dairy free alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions. You can even add protein like cooked bacon sausage or diced ham folded into the vegetable mixture for an extra satisfying version.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides to create a complete meal. Serve with avocado slices and fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast platter or alongside a crisp green salad for lunch. For brunch gatherings complement it with roasted breakfast potatoes crusty sourdough bread and a simple mixed berry bowl. If serving for dinner add a hearty soup and mixed greens with vinaigrette. A dollop of salsa or hot sauce on top provides a welcome punch of flavor for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

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Nutritional Benefits

This casserole offers remarkable nutritional value beyond just convenience. The eggs provide complete protein containing all essential amino acids while the mushrooms offer selenium vitamin D and B vitamins. Spinach contributes iron calcium and vitamins A and K making this truly a nutrient dense meal. The modest amount of goat cheese adds calcium and protein without excessive calories from fat. For those tracking macros this recipe provides an excellent balance of protein healthy fats and moderate carbohydrates making it suitable for various eating plans including keto and low carb approaches.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this breakfast casserole the night before?

Yes! You can prep all vegetables and assemble the casserole the night before. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator while preheating the oven, then bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you're not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute with feta for a similar tangy flavor, or use cream cheese for a milder option. Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese also work well for different flavor profiles.

→ How long will this breakfast casserole keep in the refrigerator?

The casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for 60-90 seconds or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then cut into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What other vegetables would work well in this casserole?

This casserole is versatile and works well with many vegetables. Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus. Just make sure to sauté harder vegetables until tender before adding them to the casserole to ensure proper cooking.

→ Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, this breakfast casserole is naturally gluten-free as written, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just be sure to check any added ingredients like cooking spray for hidden gluten.