Florentine Brunch Casserole
A savory brunch casserole with bread, ham, bell peppers, and melted cheese, perfect for weekend gatherings or special brunches, offering comforting flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
- 16 slices firm white bread
- 3 Tbsp. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can condensed cream of celery soup ⓘ
- 1/3 c. milk ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper ⓘ
- 1/3 c. finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 red bell pepper, diced ⓘ
- 1/2 c. diced cooked deli ham ⓘ
- 10 eggs, lightly beaten ⓘ
- 1 c. shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut crusts off bread using a serrated bread knife.
- Cube the crusts to measure 2 cups.
- Arrange bread slices in an overlapping pattern against the sides of an oval baker; place bread cubes in the bottom.
- Place 2 tablespoons of butter in a small micro-cooker; microwave, covered, on high for 30 seconds or until melted.
- Lightly brush melted butter over bread slices using a pastry brush.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the edges of the bread are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole grain bread instead of white. You can also swap the deli ham for cooked bacon or sausage for a different taste. To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach. If you're short on time, use pre-diced vegetables to speed up the prep process, making it a fantastic option for brunch gatherings or busy mornings.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crispy hash browns or warm biscuits. You can also drizzle it with a bit of hot sauce for added flavor. Consider offering a side of Brittany'S Waffles for a delightful breakfast spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, cover the casserole with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florentine Brunch Casserole contains roughly 629 calories, with 11g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 526mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
Can I freeze Florentine Brunch Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
What can I substitute for the cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version by combining heavy cream with sautéed celery and onions. This allows you to customize the flavor while keeping the dish creamy and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).