Spinach Florentine Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Spinach Florentine Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines creamy spinach with a rich, cheesy base, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. This dish features fresh spinach, eggs, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. The result is a flavorful casserole that’s both hearty and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for those who love savory, satisfying meals with a touch of elegance.

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a weekend brunch, or simply looking for a filling, healthy meal, Spinach Florentine Casserole offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion. This guide will take you step by step through the process, providing helpful tips and offering fun variations to explore.

Why You’ll Love Spinach Florentine Casserole

• Creamy and Hearty: The combination of spinach, cheese, and creamy sauce creates a luscious and satisfying casserole. Each bite is packed with flavor, while the spinach adds a nutritious element to the dish.
• Packed with Nutrients: Spinach is full of vitamins and minerals, and when combined with eggs and cheese, it becomes a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal. It’s a great way to get in your daily greens while enjoying a comforting dish.
• Easy to Make: This casserole is straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether served as a hearty breakfast, satisfying lunch, or light dinner, Spinach Florentine Casserole is perfect for any time of day. It also works wonderfully as a side dish to complement other main courses.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe by adding extra ingredients like bacon, sausage, or different cheeses. Whether you prefer it vegetarian or with a bit of meat, this casserole adapts to suit your tastes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 25-28g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Spinach Florentine Casserole:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but enhances the flavor)
• 1 cup cubed bread (day-old bread or a French baguette works well)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional for Extra Protein:

• 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (or turkey sausage, bacon, or sausage for a meatier casserole)

Special Equipment

While making Spinach Florentine Casserole doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Large Skillet or Pan: A large skillet is essential for sautéing the onions, garlic, and spinach. A wide, flat pan works best for evenly cooking the vegetables and ensuring the spinach wilts properly.
2. Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish (around 9×9 inches) is ideal for this casserole. You’ll want a dish that holds all of the ingredients in one layer and allows the casserole to bake evenly.
3. Mixing Bowls: A few mixing bowls are needed to combine the eggs, cream, and cheeses. Make sure the bowls are large enough to hold all of the ingredients comfortably.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of your ingredients will help ensure a balanced flavor and texture in the casserole. Standard measuring cups and spoons are necessary for proper ingredient proportions.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is great for stirring the spinach and other ingredients in the skillet. It’s also useful for mixing the egg and cream mixture.
6. Whisk: A whisk is essential for beating the eggs and cream together, ensuring the casserole mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach

If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt. Once cleaned, roughly chop the spinach into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain it well, pressing out any excess water.

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

Next, add the spinach to the skillet in batches. Stir the spinach as it wilts down, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the spinach has fully wilted, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them well using a whisk. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using), and then stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The cheeses will melt into the egg mixture, adding creaminess and flavor.

3. Combine the Spinach and Egg Mixture

Once the spinach has cooled slightly, add it to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be sure to distribute the spinach evenly throughout the mixture. If you’re adding cooked chicken or another protein, now is the time to mix it in as well.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place the cubed bread into the bottom of the dish, spreading it out evenly. The bread will soak up the creamy egg mixture, adding a delightful texture to the casserole.

Pour the spinach and egg mixture over the bread cubes, making sure everything is evenly distributed. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, golden finish.

5. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when the casserole is fully cooked.

6. Cool and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set and make it easier to cut. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and serve.

Tips for Perfect Spinach Florentine Casserole

• Use Fresh Spinach for Best Flavor: Fresh spinach will provide a better texture and flavor than frozen spinach. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella or Parmesan to the casserole for an even cheesier dish. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as cheddar or Gruyère, for a different flavor profile.
• Customize with Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or bacon to make the casserole heartier. Alternatively, you can leave it vegetarian for a lighter, plant-based option.
• Don’t Skip the Bread: The bread cubes are essential for the texture of the casserole. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can toast fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes before adding it to the dish.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance. Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if necessary.

Variations of Spinach Florentine Casserole

• Bacon Spinach Florentine Casserole: Add cooked bacon crumbles for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the spinach and cheese.
• Mushroom Spinach Florentine Casserole: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy, savory addition to the casserole.
• Gluten-Free Spinach Florentine Casserole: Use gluten-free bread cubes and check that your cream is gluten-free to make the casserole suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Spinach Florentine Casserole: Swap the eggs and cream for plant-based alternatives, such as tofu and non-dairy milk, and use vegan cheese for a fully vegan version of this dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spinach Florentine Casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container

. Store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. To freeze, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spinach Florentine Casserole

Pair this dish with complementary sides to complete your meal:

• Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots make for a healthy and flavorful side dish that complements the spinach casserole perfectly.
• Fruit Compote: A sweet fruit compote or fresh berries can balance the savory richness of the casserole for a well-rounded meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the richness of the casserole. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir works well.

Print

Conclusion

Spinach Florentine Casserole is the epitome of a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy spinach filling, combined with the richness of eggs and cheese, makes it a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. With its ease of preparation and versatility, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences, making it a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy!