Hearty Sausage and Spinach

This hearty sausage and spinach breakfast casserole has become my weekend meal prep savior. Packed with protein and vegetables, it's a nutritious way to start your day with minimal morning effort. The combination of savory sausage, nutrient-rich spinach, and colorful bell peppers creates a feast for both eyes and taste buds while keeping carbs low.

I first developed this recipe during a particularly busy work period when I needed quick but satisfying breakfasts. Now it's become my Sunday ritual to prepare this casserole for the week ahead, and my family has grown to expect it.

Ingredients

• Sausage: Provides savory protein choose chicken for leaner option or pork for more robust flavor
• Fresh spinach: Packs nutrients without overwhelming the dish wilt it down for the perfect texture
• Bell peppers: Add sweet crunch and vibrant color look for firm peppers with glossy skin
• Eggs: Create the perfect binding agent and protein boost use organic if possible for best flavor
• Cheddar cheese: Forms a golden crust on top aged cheddar offers more flavor intensity
• Milk: Helps achieve the perfect custardy texture whole milk works best but any variety will do
• Spice blend: Balances the richness with warmth and depth fresh herbs can be substituted in summer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the baking dish:

Spray your 9x13 baking dish generously with oil to ensure easy removal. Make sure to cover all corners and sides to prevent sticking.

Brown the sausage:

Heat your pan to medium high heat and lightly brown the sausage pieces. This caramelization develops flavor even if your sausage is precooked. The goal is to create a golden exterior that will contribute to the overall depth of the casserole.

Layer the sausage:

Distribute the browned sausage evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This creates a meaty foundation for your casserole.

Sauté the vegetables:

Using the same pan with all those flavorful sausage bits, add olive oil and cook down your onion, garlic, bell peppers, and spinach. The spinach will dramatically reduce in volume as it wilts. Cook until vegetables are tender but still maintain some texture, about 6 7 minutes.

Layer the vegetables:

Spread your sautéed vegetable mixture evenly over the sausage layer in the baking dish. The vegetables create a colorful middle layer.

Mix the egg base:

In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together eggs, milk, most of the cheese, and all seasonings until well combined. The mixture should be uniformly yellow with spices well distributed.

Assemble the casserole:

Pour the egg mixture carefully over the vegetables and sausage. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a golden crust.

Refrigerate to set:

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the eggs to penetrate the layers and helps the flavors meld together.

Bake to perfection:

In a preheated 375°F oven, bake until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly, about 45 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving.

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The smoked paprika is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power years ago when my brother, a professional chef, suggested adding it to egg dishes. The subtle smokiness complements the sausage perfectly and elevates the entire casserole.

Make Ahead Magic

This casserole actually improves when made in advance. The resting time in the refrigerator allows the eggs to soak into all the ingredients, creating a more cohesive texture. You can prepare it up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings when you want to enjoy time with guests instead of cooking. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap until ready to bake.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have available. Turkey sausage provides a leaner option while still delivering flavor. Kale can replace spinach for a more robust texture that holds up well during baking. Dairy free? Substitute almond milk for regular milk and nutritional yeast for the cheese flavor without the dairy. The versatility of this casserole means you can create endless variations while maintaining the satisfying protein core.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this casserole pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments. For a complete brunch, serve alongside a light arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. Fresh fruit provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. If serving guests who aren't carb conscious, offer toasted sourdough bread on the side. For an extra special touch, provide a selection of hot sauces that allow everyone to customize their portion.

Storage and Reheating

The beauty of this casserole extends to its excellent storage capabilities. After cooling completely, cut into individual portions and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. To reheat from refrigerated, microwave for 60 90 seconds until warmed through. From frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or beef sausage depending on your preference. Both pre-cooked and raw sausages work well, just be sure to brown them before adding.

→ Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Absolutely, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk and omit the cheese if needed.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.

→ Can I include other vegetables in the casserole?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole before baking?

Chilling the casserole for 2 hours allows the flavors to meld better, but if you’re short on time, it’s okay to bake it immediately.

→ Can I freeze the casserole for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, portion it, and store in freezer-safe containers.