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Fluffy Champagne Brunch Casserole with Smoked Salmon

champagne brunch casserole - featured image

An elegant and comforting brunch casserole featuring a fluffy custard base made with champagne, smoked salmon, fresh spinach, and Gruyère cheese. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (8 fl oz) champagne or sparkling wine
  • 1 cup (8 fl oz) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 6 ounces smoked salmon, roughly chopped
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1 small shallot, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the dish)
  • Optional garnishes: chopped chives or green onions, fresh lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with the melted butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, toss the chopped smoked salmon, fresh spinach, shredded Gruyère, diced shallot, and dill. Set aside.
  3. Make the custard base: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Add the champagne, whole milk or half-and-half, kosher salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard if using. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes until frothy and well combined.
  4. Assemble the casserole: Evenly spread the filling mixture across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the top, making sure it settles evenly. Gently shake the dish to level the mixture.
  5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown, edges puffed, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the custard to set.
  7. Serve: Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and fresh lemon zest if desired. Slice into squares and serve warm.

Notes

Use dry or brut champagne for best flavor. Whisk eggs and champagne well to incorporate air for a fluffy texture. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent sinking. Use room-temperature eggs for smooth custard. Let casserole rest 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts. Can prepare filling the night before and refrigerate. For dairy-free version, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

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