Description
This easy cheesy bake is a comforting, savory dish perfect for a family meal or brunch. Featuring tender spinach, creamy eggs, milk, and mature vegetarian cheddar baked together with cherry tomatoes for a golden, flavorful casserole. It’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients to create a delicious, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Greens
- 225ml bag baby leaf spinach
- 4 clusters of cherry tomatoes on the vine
Dairy and Eggs
- 6 large eggs
- 425ml milk
- 200g mature vegetarian cheddar
Pantry
- 1 tbsp English mustard powder
- 200g bread (about 3 thick slices)
- Butter (for greasing the dish)
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the dish: Preheat your oven to 190°C (gas mark 5, or 170°C fan). Butter a shallow 2-litre baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wilt the spinach: Place the baby spinach in a colander set over the sink and pour a kettleful of boiling water over it to wilt the leaves. Alternatively, microwave the spinach according to packet instructions. Let it drain and cool while you prepare the cheesy base.
- Make the cheesy egg mixture: In a food processor bowl, break in the eggs, then add the milk, English mustard powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Tear the bread into pieces, including crusts, then add it to the processor and blend until smooth and uniform.
- Add cheese to the mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a large mixing bowl and grate in three-quarters of the mature vegetarian cheddar. Stir well to combine.
- Incorporate spinach and assemble: Squeeze the wilted spinach thoroughly to remove excess water, then stir it into the cheesy egg mixture. Pour everything evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Top and bake: Grate the remaining cheese over the top and arrange the clusters of cherry tomatoes on the vine on the surface. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the bake is risen and golden.
- Cool and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly to let the dish settle before cutting and serving.
Notes
- You can microwave the spinach instead of blanching it with boiling water for convenience.
- Using mature vegetarian cheddar adds a rich depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with your preferred cheese.
- Make sure to squeeze out all excess water from spinach to avoid a watery bake.
- This dish is ideal for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: cheesy bake, vegetarian casserole, spinach bake, easy baked egg dish, brunch recipe, comfort food
