This Rustic Sausage & Spinach Breakfast Casserole is the perfect cozy, hearty meal to start your day. With layers of savory sausage and fresh spinach, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. It's an easy go-to recipe for family breakfasts or lazy weekend brunches.
Sausage forms the savory backbone of this dish. Its rich flavor pairs perfectly with the freshness of the vegetables. Spinach not only adds color but also loads of nutrients and a subtle earthiness. Eggs are the binding element, creating a custardy texture that holds everything together. The whole milk enriches the egg mixture, making it creamy and smooth. Sharp cheddar cheese offers a tangy contrast and a gooey top layer. Onion adds a depth of flavor, while salt, black pepper, and a hint of nutmeg round out the seasoning. A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the onions and bring out their sweetness, and finally, a sprinkle of green onions on top adds a fresh finish.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted potatoes. For a brunch spread, consider serving it alongside a platter of freshly baked muffins or scones. A mimosa or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice would also complement the flavors well.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's hot and ready by the time you’ve assembled everything. Next, grab a skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until they're translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 3–5 minutes. Add the ground sausage to the skillet and cook it until it's browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
Once the sausage is ready, stir in the chopped spinach. Let it cook until it wilts, soaking up all those flavorful sausage juices. When everything is nicely combined, remove the skillet from heat. Now, in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and that little bit of nutmeg. This spice adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dish. Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into this egg mixture, making sure it's well distributed.
Take a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and layer the sausage-spinach mixture evenly at the bottom. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the top, ensuring it spreads out to cover everything. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake it for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the egg is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, then garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, bright finish.