There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that combines all the best parts of a beloved classic into one warm, inviting meal. That’s exactly what you get with Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Breakfast Classic with a Cozy Twist Recipe. This casserole takes the rich, buttery essence of traditional Eggs Benedict and layers it into a hearty, easy-to-prepare bake that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to an indulgent brunch, this recipe offers that luxurious taste with the convenience and coziness of a casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in balancing textures and flavors. From the soft, buttery English muffins creating a sturdy base to the smoky Canadian bacon adding a savory punch, every element contributes to the overall harmony of this dish.
- English muffins (6, split and cut into 1-inch pieces): They soak up the egg mixture and become deliciously tender while providing structure.
- Canadian bacon or ham (10 ounces, chopped): Adds smoky, salty richness that complements the eggs perfectly.
- Large eggs (8): The heart of the casserole, binding everything into a creamy, fluffy masterpiece.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Keeps the casserole moist and lends a subtle creaminess.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): A simple seasoning that adds depth without overpowering.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and warmth to each bite.
- Fresh chives (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): For a bright, fresh garnish that enhances visual appeal and taste.
- Egg yolks (4, for the hollandaise sauce): These provide the luscious base for the sauce’s rich texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup/1 stick, melted, for hollandaise): The key to that silky, decadent sauce.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Balances the richness and adds a touch of brightness to the hollandaise.
- Cayenne pepper (a pinch): A subtle hint of heat to elevate the sauce’s flavor.
- Salt (a pinch for sauce): Enhances the final taste of your hollandaise.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Breakfast Classic with a Cozy Twist Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base Layers
Start by greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, make the layering simple but flavorful: spread half of your English muffin pieces across the bottom of the dish, followed by half of your chopped Canadian bacon. Repeat this step with the remaining muffins and bacon to build a hearty foundation that will soak up all the delicious egg mixture.
Step 2: Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until combined. This simple mixture will cook into a creamy custard that holds the layers together. Pour it evenly over your muffin and bacon layers in the baking dish, making sure it seeps into every nook and cranny.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Cover the casserole with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling step allows the muffins to fully absorb the egg mixture, making every bite rich and custardy rather than dry or crumbly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and remove the casserole from the fridge as it heats up. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to gently cook the casserole through. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the center is completely set and the top turns a beautiful, golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Hollandaise Sauce
While the casserole bakes, prepare the sauce. In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks together with lemon juice until slightly thickened. Place this bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water, careful that the bowl does not touch the water, and slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking steadily. The sauce will thicken into a smooth, velvety texture. Stir in cayenne pepper and a pinch of salt for a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy flavors.
Step 6: Serve with a Cozy Twist
Once your casserole has cooled for 5 to 10 minutes, drizzle the warm hollandaise sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives if you like a bit of color and a mild oniony finish. Get ready to savor every comforting bite of this take on a timeless classic.
How to Serve Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Breakfast Classic with a Cozy Twist Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chives or finely chopped parsley scatter over the top add a burst of vibrant green and fresh flavor that lifts the dish. A sprinkle of paprika or a few cracked black peppercorns can add a little extra visual intrigue and a gentle spice.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad to add refreshing sweetness and a touch of brightness. Crisp roasted potatoes or a simple leafy green salad with a light vinaigrette provide complementary textures that make the meal feel complete and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in cute ramekins for an elegant brunch presentation. Alternatively, turn it into a buffet-style feast by laying out the casserole with several toppings like avocado slices, smoked salmon, or sautéed spinach so everyone can customize their plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover eggs benedict casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. This means you can enjoy the deliciousness again without having to start from scratch.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before baking (after chilling) or after it has been baked and cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to maintain freshness. For the best texture, consume within one month.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. For the whole casserole, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until hot, then uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes to crisp the top.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread instead of English muffins?
Absolutely! Sturdy breads like sourdough or brioche work well and will soak up the egg mixture nicely, although they might alter the final texture and flavor slightly.
Is it possible to make the hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
While hollandaise is best served fresh for the creamiest texture, you can prepare it up to a few hours in advance and keep it warm in a thermos or warm water bath. Just whisk it gently before serving.
Can I substitute the Canadian bacon with a vegetarian option?
Yes! Try using sautéed mushrooms, smoked tofu, or even sun-dried tomatoes to give the casserole a delicious vegetarian twist without losing flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The center should be set and not jiggly when gently shaken. The top will have a golden brown color, indicating it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Cheese can add extra richness; a sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan would be wonderful additions folded into the egg mixture or sprinkled on top before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Breakfast Classic with a Cozy Twist Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and welcoming. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a deliciously satisfying meal, it offers the perfect blend of comforting flavors and ease. So go ahead and make it your next brunch hero—you’ll be so glad you did.
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Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 4 hours chilling)
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining layers of English muffins, Canadian bacon, and a creamy egg mixture baked to perfection. Topped with a rich, homemade Hollandaise sauce, this casserole is perfect for brunch, holidays, or make-ahead breakfasts, offering a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 6 English muffins, split and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces Canadian bacon or ham, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
Hollandaise Sauce
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the English muffin pieces evenly across the bottom, then sprinkle with half of the chopped Canadian bacon or ham. Repeat these two layers with the remaining muffins and bacon to create a stacked base.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the muffin and bacon layers in the baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard.
- Preheat Oven: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator while your oven preheats to 375°F (190°C). This helps take the chill off and ensures even baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the center is fully set, and the top is nicely golden and slightly crisp.
- Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set further and make serving easier.
- Prepare Hollandaise Sauce: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until the mixture thickens slightly. Set the bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water ensuring the bowl does not touch the water (double boiler method).
- Finish Hollandaise: Slowly drizzle melted butter into the egg yolk mixture while continuously whisking until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. Stir in cayenne pepper and salt to taste.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm Hollandaise sauce over the baked casserole slices. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute Canadian bacon with diced ham or cooked breakfast sausage based on preference.
- For a quicker version, use packaged hollandaise sauce mix instead of making it from scratch.
- This casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or as a convenient make-ahead breakfast option.
- Allowing the casserole to chill overnight improves texture and flavor as the bread soaks up the egg custard.
- To reheat leftovers, cover and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
