Spinach & Bacon Souffle from Panera Bread features fluffy eggs blended with savory spinach and smoky bacon, baked to a golden, airy perfection that delivers a rich and flavorful breakfast experience.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Frying pan or skillet
- Baking dish or ramekins
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- Oven
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater (if grating cheese)
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 4 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Fresh spinach is essential for a vibrant flavor and tender texture, while cooking the bacon until crisp enhances the smoky depth of the souffle. Using high-quality Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses contributes to the rich, creamy taste and helps achieve the perfect golden crust. Heavy cream adds moisture and fluffiness to the eggs, so measure carefully to maintain the right consistency. Season your mixture with salt, black pepper, and a hint of nutmeg to balance savory and warm notes. Your Spinach & Bacon Souffle from Panera Bread copycat menu will capture the signature airy, flavorful experience you're aiming to recreate.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease the baking dish or ramekins with butter.
- Cook bacon in a frying pan until crispy; drain and crumble.
- In the same pan, sauté spinach until wilted; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs until frothy.
- Add heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg; whisk to combine.
- Stir in Gruyère cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Fold in cooked spinach and crumbled bacon.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish or ramekins.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
Substitution
The Spinach & Bacon Souffle from the Panera Bread copycat menu offers a light, airy texture with the earthy taste of spinach and the rich savoriness of bacon. If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach that's well-drained makes an excellent substitute without compromising flavor or moisture. You can replace bacon with turkey bacon or smoked sausage for a different smoky profile or a lighter option. When grating cheese, substitute Gruyere with Swiss or mozzarella, and Parmesan with Pecorino Romano to maintain a similar creamy depth. Be careful not to overcook the souffle in the oven; it should be golden and fluffy but still moist inside for the best experience.
Tips
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy souffle texture. Whisking eggs vigorously until frothy helps incorporate air, vital for the souffle's rise. When folding in spinach and bacon, do so gently to retain the airiness of your mixture. Overbaking can cause deflation, so check for a golden, puffed top around 25 minutes to serve your souffle at its best.
Nutritions
Spinach & Bacon Souffle from Panera Bread provides a good source of protein from eggs and bacon, essential for muscle repair and energy. The inclusion of fresh spinach adds dietary fiber, vitamins A and K, and iron, promoting overall health and digestion. Rich Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses contribute calcium and healthy fats, supporting bone strength and brain function. Your breakfast becomes nutrient-dense and satisfying with this combination of ingredients.
Storage
Your Spinach & Bacon Souffle should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of baking to maintain freshness. It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors later. When ready to eat, gently reheat the souffle in a preheated oven at 325degF (160degC) for about 10 minutes to preserve its airy texture and smoky bacon taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green flavor and texture ideal for your souffle. Swap bacon with diced ham or smoked turkey to maintain a smoky, meaty component while catering to different taste preferences. Using goat cheese instead of Gruyere offers a tangy twist that complements the creamy texture of the eggs and heavy cream. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative, which will slightly reduce richness but keep the souffle fluffy.
Allergies
Spinach & Bacon Souffle from Panera Bread contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy from heavy cream, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Bacon may pose a risk for those allergic to pork or with dietary restrictions related to cured meats. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it's important to take caution or consult with the restaurant before consumption.
Why this recipe?
Spinach & Bacon Souffle at Panera Bread combines fresh spinach, smoky bacon, and rich cheese baked to a fluffy perfection, creating a savory flavor profile that appeals to many. This dish offers a balance of nutrients and indulgence, making it both satisfying and flavorful. You can replicate this souffle at home to enjoy a gourmet experience with control over ingredients and freshness. Its unique texture and taste make it a standout menu item worth trying to recreate.