Ultimate Spinach and Mozzarella Breakfast Bake: Prepare in Advance!

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter were melted in a pan over medium heat, releasing a rich aroma. 1 ½ cups of finely chopped yellow onion were added, sizzling gently to enhance their sweetness. 3 pinches of herbes de Provence were sprinkled in, infusing the dish with a touch of French countryside charm. A dash of salt and ground black pepper were added to bring out the flavors. 2 packages of frozen chopped spinach, each weighing 10 ounces, were carefully thawed and drained, ensuring they were ready to be incorporated. The pan was lightly coated with butter-flavored cooking spray, readying it for the next step. 8 cups of Italian bread were cubed into bite-sized pieces, ready to absorb all the delicious flavors to come. 1 cup of reduced-fat mozzarella cheese was shredded finely, adding a creamy and indulgent layer to the dish. 9 large eggs cracked open, their yolks vibrant and rich. 1 cup of skim milk was poured in, binding all the ingredients together in a harmonious union.

Step 1

Begin by melting butter in a medium skillet on medium heat until it turns into a golden liquid. Saute the onion until it becomes soft, taking around 5 minutes. Next, sprinkle in some herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors mingle for another minute. Mix in the fresh spinach, then remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.

Step 2

Prepare a 3-quart (9x13-inch) baking dish by lightly coating the inside with cooking spray. Start layering the dish with a third of the bread cubes at the bottom. Follow it up with a third of the spinach mixture and a third of the luscious mozzarella cheese. Repeat these delightful layers twice more, using up all the remaining bread, spinach, and cheese.

Step 3

In a separate medium bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, whisking them together until they form a harmonious blend. Gently pour this mixture over the layers of bread and spinach in the baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or up to a whole day.

Step 4

Thirty minutes before you're ready to bake, take the dish out of the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to a toasty 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 5

When everything is set, bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven until it puffs up, turns a beautiful golden brown, and cooks through completely, which should take around 45 to 55 minutes. Give it a little resting time, at least 5 minutes, before you serve this delightful creation.