If you’re anything like me, you love waking up to a breakfast that feels hearty, comforting, *and* just a little bit fancy—without spending all morning in the kitchen. This Creamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole Recipe checks every box! It’s packed with lean ground turkey, melted cheese, fresh spinach, and tender potatoes all baked together into a bubbly, golden masterpiece. You’ll find that it’s perfect for a weekend brunch, feeding a crowd, or even make-ahead weekday breakfasts that still taste fresh and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in about 40 minutes—you’ll love how little hands-on time it takes.
- Balanced and Protein-Packed: Ground turkey and eggs make it nourishing and filling for a great start to your day.
- Versatile and Crowd-Friendly: Great for family breakfasts or entertaining guests with minimal stress.
- Fresh Flavor Boost: The addition of sage and fresh garlic give it a subtle herbaceous twist that makes it extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I love how these simple ingredients come together to create such a rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. Plus, most of what you need is probably already in your pantry or fridge, which is always a win!
- Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and that lovely earthiness in the sautéed veggies.
- Yellow onions: Mild and sweet, they form a flavorful base that softens perfectly when cooked.
- Ground turkey: I prefer 99% lean for a healthier option that still stays juicy and tender.
- Chili powder: Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering, boosting the savoriness of the meat.
- Onion powder: A little extra depth to layer those onion flavors.
- Baby spinach: Fresh and tender, it wilts down just right to keep the casserole light and green.
- Minced garlic and fresh sage: These two together bring a bright, aromatic punch that makes this dish memorable.
- Large eggs and fat free milk: The creamy custard base that holds everything together beautifully.
- Grated raw potatoes (no skin): They add subtle texture and heartiness alike—don’t skip peeling them for the best consistency.
- Mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese: Melty Mozzarella pairs with the sharp Parmesan topping, giving that luscious, golden finish.
- Salt and pepper: Season to your taste, but start light—you can always add more once baked!
Variations
I like to think of this creamy spinach and potato breakfast casserole recipe as a great base for getting creative. Once you’ve nailed the classic version, the sky’s the limit on customization!
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground turkey for sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu—I’ve tried it with mushrooms and it still came out wonderfully savory and satisfying.
- Extra Veggies: I often add diced bell peppers or zucchini for even more color and nutrients; just sauté them along with the onions.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeño with the onions—my family actually prefers it this way!
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap Mozzarella for cheddar or Monterey Jack for different melty textures and flavors.
How to Make Creamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Turkey
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and greasing your casserole dish or oven-safe skillet. Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add diced yellow onions. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant—that smell will instantly get your appetite going! Next, add the lean ground turkey along with chili powder and onion powder. Stir and break it apart as it browns evenly. Cook until no pink remains, then transfer the mixture to a bowl and set aside. This step builds a great flavor base you’ll appreciate in every bite.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach with Garlic and Sage
To the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and reduce the heat to medium low. Toss in the minced garlic and fresh sage, sautéing gently for about 2-3 minutes. This combo releases such fragrant notes that it instantly elevates the dish. Add in the baby spinach leaves last; stir until they just wilt, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Removing excess moisture here is crucial so your casserole isn’t soggy. Once ready, transfer these to another bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Custard and Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and fat-free milk until smooth and slightly frothy. Then, fold in the cooked turkey mixture, wilted spinach, grated raw potatoes, and shredded Mozzarella cheese. Stir everything gently but thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly combined—this ensures every slice has harmonious flavors and texture. Pour this mixture into your prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly on top. That cheesy layer turns golden and crispy as it bakes, which I absolutely adore.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll want to watch for a golden-brown top and gently pressing the casserole to feel that it springs back—both signs it’s perfectly baked and set. If your oven tends to brown quickly, keep an eye after 18 minutes to avoid burning the Parmesan. Once done, season with salt and pepper to taste. I find this final seasoning really brightens up the whole dish.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Squeeze Excess Moisture: I’ve learned to press fresh spinach in a clean kitchen towel after washing to avoid watery casseroles.
- Consistent Potato Size: Grate potatoes finely and evenly to ensure they cook through and blend seamlessly in the texture.
- Use an Ovenproof Skillet: This trick saves on dirty dishes and helps the casserole cook evenly with a nice crust on the edges.
- Watch Your Bake Time: Avoid drying out by checking the casserole a few minutes before the timer—overbaking can make it dense instead of creamy.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
I like topping servings with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Sometimes a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or a spoonful of mild salsa adds a wonderful contrast too—try these to see what you like best!
Side Dishes
My go-to sides with this casserole usually include fresh fruit salad or roasted cherry tomatoes, which balance the richness nicely. A crusty slice of toast or a warm whole grain roll also pairs perfectly if you want a little extra to scoop up every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch parties, I sometimes bake individual portions in ramekins and top each with microgreens. It looks effortlessly elegant and makes guests feel special. Another fun idea is layering the casserole in a clear glass dish so everyone can see those beautiful layers of greens, cheese, and potatoes—the visual appeal really upstages usual breakfast fare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover casserole covered tightly in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like to cut slices rather than scraping from a big bowl—it helps it warm evenly without drying out.
Freezing
Freezing works great for this casserole! I portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just be sure to cover it well to protect the cheese from drying out or getting freezer burn.
Reheating
I recommend reheating covered in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwave works, but the oven keeps the lovely crisp top intact and makes it taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen spinach in this casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess water before adding it to the casserole. Otherwise, the moisture can make the dish soggy.
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Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute dairy-free milk and use a plant-based cheese alternative. Just choose varieties that melt well for the best creamy texture.
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How do I prevent the potatoes from being crunchy in the casserole?
Grating the potatoes finely is key. Also, make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture so they cook fully while baking. Avoid adding large chunks.
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Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, prepping it the night before makes mornings so much easier! Just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Then bake the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time if needed.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat covered in the oven at around 350°F. This helps keep moisture locked in and the crust crisp rather than drying or toughening the casserole.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Creamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole Recipe comes together—simple ingredients transforming into a comforting, protein-packed breakfast you can feel good about. When I first tried it, I was surprised by how creamy and flavorful it felt without any heavy creams or fancy sauces. My family goes crazy for it, and I know you’ll enjoy sharing it with your loved ones too. Give this recipe a try—I promise it’ll become a beloved staple on your breakfast rotation!
PrintCreamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups casserole, serves 3-4
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Creamy Spinach and Potato Breakfast Casserole is a flavorful, high-protein morning meal combining lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, grated potatoes, and a blend of cheeses baked to perfection. With a touch of herbs and spices, it offers a wholesome and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onions
- 8 ounces raw 99% lean ground turkey
- 3 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh sage
- 2/3 cup grated raw potatoes, without skin
Spices
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy and Eggs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fat free milk
- 1/2 cup shredded low moisture Mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Casserole Dish: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a small 3-cup casserole dish or an ovenproof skillet with nonstick spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Cook Onions and Turkey: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Stir in the ground turkey, chili powder, and onion powder. Cook until the meat is fully browned and crumbled. Once done, transfer the mixture to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spinach: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and fresh sage, sautéing gently for 2-3 minutes to release their flavors. Add the fresh baby spinach leaves and stir continuously until the spinach wilts, approximately 2 minutes. Transfer this mixture into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Combine Casserole Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and fat-free milk to create a creamy base. Add the cooked turkey mixture, sautéed spinach mixture, grated raw potatoes, and shredded Mozzarella cheese. Stir everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole springs back when lightly touched.
- Season and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to enjoy a creamy, flavorful breakfast option.
Notes
- This breakfast casserole features a wholesome mix of sausage (using lean turkey), eggs, potatoes, spinach, and cheese.
- It’s a super easy recipe that can be ready in about 40 minutes.
- High in protein, making it a perfect filling meal for the morning.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean sausage for variation.
- Grated raw potatoes provide a subtle texture and moisture; you can also use hash browns if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/4 casserole)
- Calories: 242 calories
- Sugar: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 291.3 mg
- Fat: 13.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 9.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 9.6 g
- Fiber: 2.3 g
- Protein: 22.3 g
- Cholesterol: 137.5 mg