Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to kickstart my day: the Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole! This dish is a delightful blend of flavors that transports me straight to a sunlit café by the sea. Picture this: fluffy eggs mingling with fresh spinach, tangy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also incredibly filling! I remember the first time I made it for a brunch with friends; the aroma filled my kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s become a staple in my home, perfect for lazy weekends or busy weekdays. Trust me, once you try this casserole, you’ll understand why it’s a breakfast game-changer!
Ingredients List
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
Making this Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole is as simple as it is delicious! Let’s dive right into it.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important, so your casserole bakes evenly! I usually let it warm up for about 10 minutes before I start mixing.
- While that’s heating, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the 6 large eggs and 1 cup of whole milk. You want it nice and frothy, trust me—it makes for a fluffier casserole!
- Next, gently fold in 1 cup of diced fresh tomatoes, 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers, and 1/2 cup of chopped onions. Then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, and oh, the smell is divine!
- Now, grab a greased baking dish (I like to use a 9×13 inch one) and pour that vibrant mixture right in. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so every bite is loaded with flavor.
- Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set in the middle and lightly golden on top.
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This is the hardest part—waiting to dig in! But trust me, it’s worth it.
And there you have it! A delicious Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole ready to be enjoyed!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s chat about the nutrition! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s not an exact science. But generally speaking, you can expect about 200 calories per serving, with around 10g of fat, 12g of protein, and 15g of carbs. Plus, it’s a great way to fuel your day with wholesome veggies and protein! I love knowing I’m starting my morning with something nutritious and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Nutrient-Packed: With plenty of veggies and protein from eggs and feta, it’s a wholesome way to start your day.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh tomatoes, spinach, and tangy feta creates a taste that’s simply irresistible!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before for an effortless breakfast that’s ready to go!
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
Tips for Success
To make your Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole truly shine, here are some handy tips! First off, always use fresh, high-quality ingredients—especially the eggs and feta. They really make a difference in flavor. If you can, opt for organic eggs; you’ll taste the richness!
When it comes to baking, keep an eye on the casserole as it approaches the 30-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want to catch it just as it sets and turns golden. Don’t be afraid to sprinkle a bit more cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish!
Also, feel free to mix things up! Swap in your favorite vegetables, or toss in some cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier version. Herbs like basil or thyme can also elevate the flavors. Experimentation is part of the fun!
Variations
The beauty of the Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole is its versatility! You can really make it your own by swapping or adding ingredients. For a heartier touch, try incorporating cooked sausage or diced ham—yummy! If you want to keep it vegetarian, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
Cheese lovers, rejoice! While feta is a classic choice, you could also use goat cheese for a creamier bite or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. And don’t forget about spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill to brighten things up. The options are endless, so have fun mixing and matching to find your favorite combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole is super simple! Once it’s completely cooled, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those delicious leftovers throughout the week.
When it comes to reheating, I like to pop individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes if you prefer that fresh-baked taste. Just cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy your yummy breakfast all over again!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole experience, consider serving it with a light, fresh salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil pairs beautifully! You can also add some crusty bread or warm pita on the side for a satisfying crunch. And don’t forget a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a creamy, tangy twist that brings everything together. Enjoy your delicious breakfast feast!
Print
Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole: 5 Flavorful Secrets
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty Mediterranean breakfast casserole packed with flavors and nutrients.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Add diced tomatoes, spinach, feta, bell peppers, onions, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole