If you adore the rich, savory taste of traditional Eggs Benedict but want to serve it to a crowd without the fuss of poaching each egg individually, then let me introduce you to Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Twist on the Breakfast Classic Recipe. This casserole captures all those beloved flavors—creamy hollandaise, smoky Canadian bacon, and fluffy eggs—while combining them into one warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions. It’s like having your favorite breakfast indulgence made simpler, heartier, and ready to share!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the fluffy custard-like eggs to the melty cheddar and hearty English muffins, everything works together seamlessly.
- 12 large eggs: The star ingredient that forms the silky, rich base of the casserole.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth custard consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, keeping the dish perfectly seasoned.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings just a hint of warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the custard mix.
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered: The hearty base that soaks up all the savory goodness.
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham: Offers that classic smoky, salty punch essential to Eggs Benedict.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to add gooey, sharp flavor.
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce: The crowning glory—rich, buttery, and tangy.
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish: A fresh, colorful finish to brighten every bite.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Twist on the Breakfast Classic Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure you grease a large baking dish well—this simple step guarantees the casserole won’t stick and helps with easy serving later. Preparing your pan is all about setting yourself up for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large bowl, whisk together the 12 eggs and 3 cups of whole milk until the mixture becomes frothy. Incorporate the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and Dijon mustard at this stage to ensure every bite bursts with balanced flavors. This custard-like mixture is the heart of the casserole and makes the texture beautifully rich and tender.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now for the fun part. Layer the quartered English muffins evenly across the bottom of your dish. Next, add a layer of the Canadian bacon or ham, spreading it out so that each forkful gets some meaty goodness. Pour the egg mixture gently over the assembled layers, letting the muffins soak up those savory custardy flavors. Finally, scatter the shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a golden, melty crust that bakes into perfection.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover your baking dish with foil and slide it into the oven. Let it bake for 30 minutes covered, allowing the custard to set. After that, remove the foil so the cheese can brown nicely and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on that gorgeous golden top—it signals your casserole is ready to enjoy.
Step 5: Finish with Hollandaise and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly to set even more and make serving easier. Then, drizzle your prepared hollandaise sauce over the top—don’t be shy, this is the signature indulgence. Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley to add a fresh burst of color and a light herbal note that cuts through the richness.
How to Serve Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Twist on the Breakfast Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can have fun and enliven the dish. Fresh chives and parsley are classic choices that add vibrancy and a mild bite. A light dusting of paprika can introduce a smoky hint and an extra pop of color, making the casserole look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Eggs Benedict Casserole pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp sides that balance its richness. Think lightly dressed arugula salad, roasted asparagus, or even a simple fruit salad bursting with seasonal sweetness. These sides provide textural contrast and refresh your palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, consider serving individual portions in ramekins for pretty presentation and easy serving. Layering smaller bowls or even muffin tins can create adorable single servings that impress guests. Drizzle hollandaise with a spoon or pipe it for artistic flair, turning the dish into a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. When you’re ready, simply reheat slices gently to enjoy the flavors without sacrificing the creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cozy breakfast later, you can freeze portions after baking and cooling completely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making this casserole a convenient, make-ahead brunch lifesaver.
Reheating
To reheat without losing texture, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through—about 15 to 20 minutes. A quick microwave option works for convenience but may soften the cheesy crust slightly. Always add fresh hollandaise and garnish after reheating for best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds sharpness, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or even mozzarella for a milder, creamier finish. Each cheese will give the casserole its own unique twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the Canadian bacon or ham with sautéed mushrooms, asparagus, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version. This keeps the comforting texture while packing it with fresh veggie flavors.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you wake up, pop it straight into the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. It’s great for stress-free mornings!
What if I don’t have hollandaise sauce on hand?
You can use a quick homemade hollandaise or even a creamy béarnaise for a flavor twist. If you’re short on time, a drizzle of Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and a pinch of salt can create a tangy alternative.
Does this casserole freeze well?
It sure does! Freezing cooked portions is a smart way to have a delicious breakfast ready to go anytime. Just be mindful to freeze after baking and ensure it’s wrapped well to preserve taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — a simple, satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite breakfast classic without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Twist on the Breakfast Classic Recipe at your next brunch or family gathering. It’s one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and once you make it, it might just become a new go-to in your recipe collection.
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Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Twist on the Breakfast Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict transformed into a cozy, crowd-pleasing casserole. This baked breakfast dish layers English muffins, Canadian bacon, and cheddar cheese with a creamy egg mixture, topped with hollandaise sauce and fresh herbs for a flavorful start to your day.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 12 large eggs
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Base and Toppings
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together 12 large eggs, 3 cups whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until the mixture is frothy and well combined.
- Layer it up: Place the quartered English muffins evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by a layer of 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, then sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake to perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
- Finish with flair: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before drizzling 1 cup of hollandaise sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ham for Canadian bacon based on preference.
- Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk mixture thoroughly to create a light and fluffy casserole.
- Covering the casserole during the first part of baking prevents the top from browning too quickly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with additional hollandaise sauce.
- For added flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to the egg mixture.
