This veggie-packed breakfast casserole is a delicious way to start your day! Full of colorful vegetables and fluffy eggs, it’s like a garden on your plate. 🌿
I love making this dish for brunch with friends. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, plus it makes great leftovers—if there are any! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for a fluffy texture. If you need a vegan option, consider using a flaxseed meal or plant-based egg substitute for a similar binding effect.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess, but you can use almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free choice. Look for unsweetened varieties to keep the flavor balanced.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar brings rich flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella, feta, or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Veggies: The mix of bell pepper, mushrooms, and spinach is tasty, but you can swap in zucchini, kale, or even broccoli based on your taste and what you have at home!
Herbs and Seasoning: Dried oregano adds warmth, but feel free to mix in your favorite herbs like thyme or basil. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also add brightness.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing veggies is key to building flavor in this casserole. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; once hot, add onions first to soften their flavor.
- Add harder vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms, cooking them until they are tender and moisture has evaporated.
- Finish with softer veggies like spinach, which just need a minute or two to wilt. This helps keep their vibrant color and nutrients.
Perfectly sautéed veggies enhance the overall taste of your casserole, making it more delightful!
Veggie-Packed Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Egg Base:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)
Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Essentials:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. You’ll have it on the table in about an hour, ready for you to enjoy the perfect start to your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent and fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mix for 5-6 minutes until everything is tender and any moisture has dried up. The smell will start to fill your kitchen!
3. Add the Greens:
Now it’s time to add the spinach. Stir it in and let it cook for just 1-2 minutes, until it wilts down. After that, remove the skillet from heat. Your colorful veggie mix is ready!
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and pour in the milk. Whisk them together until they’re nicely combined and fluffy. Then, stir in the shredded cheese, sautéed veggies, salt, pepper, and dried oregano (and fresh herbs, if you’re using them). Just mix it all together until it’s well blended.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour your egg and veggie mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. It should look colorful and inviting!
6. Bake It Up:
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the casserole is ready when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to serve. Dish it up warm and enjoy this hearty, veggie-packed breakfast with family or friends!
This casserole is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly flexible. You can add or swap in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it your own unique creation! Happy cooking!
Can I Make This Breakfast Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning to bake—it may need a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
After serving, let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is super versatile. Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or even shredded carrots, based on what you enjoy or have on hand.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
Cheddar is a great choice for flavor, but you can also use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a different taste or a vegan option. Pick your favorite!