Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a warm, savory breakfast to start your day, and that’s exactly what Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe delivers. This dish is a perfect blend of fluffy eggs, rich Canadian bacon, melty cheddar, and buttery English muffins, all baked together and topped with silky hollandaise sauce. It transforms the elegance of classic Eggs Benedict into an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your breakfast guests with this cozy, flavorful recipe that brings comfort food and brunch sophistication into one irresistible package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures for your breakfast casserole. From the creamy custard base made from eggs and milk to the savory punch of Canadian bacon and the gooey cheddar cheese topping, every component adds something special to this heartwarming dish.
- 12 large eggs: The backbone of the casserole, providing richness and a fluffy texture.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole together with the eggs.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of subtle spice and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives a gentle kick to keep things interesting without being too hot.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Introduces a tangy nuance that brightens the custard beautifully.
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered: Provide a sturdy, buttery base that soaks up the custard while staying tender.
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham: Adds savory, smoky meatiness that elevates every bite.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of flavor on top and throughout the casserole.
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce: The classic, silky sauce that crowns this casserole with luxurious richness.
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild oniony or herbal note to finish.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a large baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will develop a golden crust that’s irresistibly inviting.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a big bowl, whisk together the 12 large eggs and 3 cups of whole milk until the mixture is light and frothy. Then, season it thoughtfully with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and the Dijon mustard for a subtle tang. This custard forms the luscious base that binds your casserole together and creates that perfect silky texture.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part—building the layers that bring this dish to life. Spread the quartered English muffins evenly on the bottom of your baking dish, then layer on the Canadian bacon or ham slices. Pour the egg mixture gently over the top, making sure it seeps into every nook. Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to add vibrant color and that dreamy melted cheese experience.
Step 4: Bake with Care
Cover your dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake covered for 30 minutes so the casserole can set without drying out. Then uncover it and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is gloriously golden brown and bubbling. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is nothing short of heavenly.
Step 5: Finish with Hollandaise and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly to settle. Then, drizzle the entire dish with the luscious hollandaise sauce, which perfectly complements the savory flavors while adding that iconic silky finish. Scatter fresh chopped chives or parsley over the top for a lovely pop of green and a fresh herbal note.
How to Serve Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe look as gorgeous as it tastes, fresh garnishes are key. Bright green chives or parsley not only add color but also a mild onion or herbaceous lift that balances the richness. You could also add a few halved cherry tomatoes or a light sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal and a flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully hearty and versatile, so pairing it with light, fresh sides works beautifully. Consider a crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or some fresh fruit like berries or orange segments to cut through the richness. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach also add a nutrient boost without overpowering the casserole’s classic flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn this simple casserole into a brunch centerpiece by serving it in individual ramekins for a charming touch, or layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to showcase the beautiful strata of English muffins, bacon, and cheese. Another fun idea is to top each slice with a perfectly poached egg and a little extra hollandaise to really bring the Eggs Benedict experience full circle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers—and often you will—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole actually tastes great reheated and can be a lifesaver for a quick breakfast or brunch the next day.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe! Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave on medium power for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warm throughout. For best results, reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes to keep the edges crisp and cheese melty without drying the casserole out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread instead of English muffins?
Absolutely! While English muffins provide the classic texture and flavor, you can substitute with brioche, sourdough, or even thick-cut sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s slightly stale or toasted to soak up the custard properly without turning mushy.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the Canadian bacon with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or vegetarian ham alternatives. Adding a little smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help mimic that savory depth.
How spicy does the cayenne pepper make the casserole?
The amount suggested provides a gentle warmth that enhances flavor complexity without being spicy hot. You can adjust it to your preference by adding more for heat or skipping it for a milder taste.
Can I prepare the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake straight from the fridge, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through evenly.
What kind of hollandaise sauce works best with this recipe?
Traditional homemade hollandaise is fantastic if you have time, but store-bought versions work perfectly well too. The key is to warm it gently before drizzling so it retains its creamy texture without breaking.
Final Thoughts
This Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels special but is so simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating your family, or just indulging in a decadent morning meal, this casserole brings warmth, flavor, and a little bit of elegance to the table. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite go-to breakfast that combines the best of classic flavors with comforting ease.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings (8 slices)
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Eggs Benedict Casserole is a comforting and easy twist on the classic Eggs Benedict breakfast. This baked dish layers English muffins, Canadian bacon, and cheddar cheese, all soaked in a savory egg custard, then topped with rich hollandaise sauce and fresh herbs for a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for serving a crowd or family brunch.
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 12 large eggs
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Layer Ingredients
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish to ensure the casserole does not stick during baking.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is frothy and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer the quartered English muffins at the bottom of the greased baking dish, then evenly distribute the Canadian bacon or ham over the muffins. Pour the egg mixture over the layers and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the eggs to set and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before drizzling the hollandaise sauce on top. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- You can substitute Canadian bacon with ham or turkey bacon if preferred.
- Make sure not to overbake to keep the casserole moist and tender.
- Use fresh hollandaise sauce for the best flavor or store-bought for convenience.
- This dish can be prepared the night before; assemble and refrigerate uncovered, then bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
- For a spicier twist, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the egg mixture.
