Egg, Spinach, and Mushroom Slow Cooker Casserole Recipe

Egg, Spinach, and Mushroom Slow Cooker Casserole Recipe

Cook Time: 360 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

  • 1 (24 ounce) carton cottage cheese
  • 6 eggs
  • cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 (8 ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 1 (7 ounce) bag fresh spinach

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, flour, chopped onion, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced mushrooms, and fresh spinach until evenly combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the eggs are fully set and the dish is firm to the touch.
  5. Once cooked, serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Facts Amount per serving
Calories 313
Total Fat 20g
Saturated Fat 11g
Cholesterol 190mg
Sodium 760mg
Total Carbohydrate 9g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 25g
Vitamin C 8mg
Calcium 303mg
Iron 2mg
Potassium 390mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Egg, Spinach, and Mushroom Slow Cooker Casserole is a comforting dish that combines healthy ingredients like eggs, spinach, mushrooms, and cottage cheese into a hearty breakfast or brunch option. Prepared in a slow cooker, this casserole is an easy, hands-off meal that can be set and forgotten, making it perfect for busy mornings or gatherings.

Origin of the Recipe

The origins of the casserole can be traced back to traditional American comfort food, which often revolves around using simple ingredients to create filling, hearty dishes. The slow cooker, or crockpot, revolutionized home cooking in the 1970s, making it easier to prepare meals with minimal effort. The inclusion of eggs, cheese, and vegetables like spinach and mushrooms in casseroles likely emerged as a response to the growing interest in healthy, protein-packed breakfasts. This recipe, with its focus on convenience and nutrition, has become a staple in many households.

Regional Features and Variations

While the concept of a slow cooker casserole is popular across the United States, regional variations do exist. In the South, for instance, casseroles often feature ingredients like sausage, bacon, and a range of vegetables. In contrast, the use of spinach and mushrooms in this recipe gives it a more health-conscious twist that might be appreciated in regions where lighter, vegetarian options are more common. The addition of cottage cheese is also a key feature, as it is widely used in Midwestern and Eastern American recipes for its creamy texture and mild flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets this egg, spinach, and mushroom casserole apart from similar breakfast dishes is its method of preparation. Unlike traditional egg casseroles baked in the oven, this version uses a slow cooker, which results in a more moist and evenly cooked dish. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together over several hours, creating a tender, fluffy texture. Furthermore, while other casseroles may use heavy cream or other rich ingredients, this recipe focuses on lighter, healthier options, making it suitable for those who want a balanced breakfast.

Where It's Typically Served

This casserole is commonly served as part of a breakfast or brunch spread, especially for gatherings such as holiday breakfasts, family reunions, or potlucks. Its an excellent dish to prepare the night before, allowing it to cook while you sleep, so it's ready to serve when you wake up. Its combination of eggs, cheese, and vegetables makes it a versatile dish that pairs well with other breakfast staples like toast, bacon, or fruit. You might also find it served at cafes or diners that offer all-day breakfast menus.

Interesting Facts

  • The slow cooker was invented in the 1950s and became widely popular in the 1970s, helping busy families prepare meals with minimal effort.
  • This casserole can be made in advance, making it an ideal dish for busy individuals or large groups. The slow cooker ensures it stays warm for hours.
  • The dish is highly customizable. You can substitute the spinach with kale or use a different type of cheese depending on your preferences.
  • Egg casseroles like this one are often associated with comfort food, providing a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for an easy breakfast, or simply seeking a nutritious meal, the Egg, Spinach, and Mushroom Slow Cooker Casserole is a delicious, versatile option that's sure to satisfy.

FAQ about Egg, Spinach, and Mushroom Slow Cooker Casserole Recipe

Yes, you can omit the flour. However, the flour helps to thicken the mixture and prevents it from becoming too watery during cooking. If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just cook as directed.

Yes, you can bake the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.

You can add various ingredients to customize the flavor. Consider adding herbs like thyme or basil, or incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes. You can also try adding cooked bacon, sausage, or other cheeses for variety.

Watery casseroles may occur if the ingredients, particularly the spinach, release too much moisture during cooking. To avoid this, be sure to drain and cook the spinach before adding it to the mixture. Additionally, ensure the casserole is not overcooked.

The casserole is done when the eggs are set and no longer runny. It should take about 6-8 hours on the low setting in the slow cooker. If you are unsure, you can check the center of the casserole with a thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. A 6-quart slow cooker should be sufficient for doubling the recipe.

If the casserole begins to burn before it’s fully cooked, try cooking it on a lower setting or use a slow cooker liner to prevent direct contact with the heating element. If possible, check the casserole halfway through the cooking time and adjust the settings.

Comments

Emma Walker

03/07/2023 05:34:39 AM

Updated review: Absolutely delicious and easy to make. Following the recipe with 8 oz of baby spinach and cooking for 8 hours in an Instant Pot using the low slow cooker setting resulted in a wonderfully moist dish. I made use of the non-stick insert for easy cleaning. For a 6-quart Instant Pot, I recommend setting it to medium sauté. Start by adding half of the butter and the onions, then incorporate the mushrooms after a few minutes. It's not necessary to fully cook them, just soften the onions a bit. Turn off the pot, add the remaining butter, and let the spinach wilt in the residual heat. This method helps everything fit into the pot more comfortably. Prepare the rest of the ingredients (I used 8 eggs and added 1/4 tsp of cayenne), mix in the sautéed veggies and their liquid, then pour the mixture back into the Instant Pot. Slow-cook on low for 7-9 hours with either the standard lid or a glass one for a fantastic result.

Deborah Young

05/21/2024 11:20:21 AM

This recipe was simple and delicious. Unable to use the slow cooker, I opted to bake it in the oven at 350F for an hour. The results were fantastic!

Donald Anderson

04/26/2023 11:13:31 PM

This recipe was simple and delicious. I couldn't use the slow cooker due to time constraints, so I opted to bake it in the oven for an hour at 350F. The result was fantastic!

Helen Parker

02/05/2024 09:18:09 PM

This burnt in less than 6 hours. I would tweak a few things if I were to make it again. It didn't fare well in the slow cooker. However, it was flavorful!

George Miller

03/26/2024 02:59:11 PM

I made some adjustments that didn't turn out well in this recipe. The casserole itself was delicious even without my substitutions. I cooked it in a 6-quart crock pot for six hours, which was the perfect timing. I had to wake up early to turn it off to avoid over-browning. I used fresh chopped spinach and switched gluten-free flour for wheat flour. Additionally, I added two extra eggs and ricotta instead of cottage cheese, along with turkey bacon and Jimmy Dean turkey sausage. However, using those particular meats was a mistake; I plan to use Hillshire turkey kielbasa sausage next time. Overall, I didn't notice a significant difference from the ricotta cheese.

Catherine Garcia

03/18/2023 12:58:14 AM

Delicious and convenient. Enjoyed it for dinner as breakfast.