Eggs Benedict Casserole

Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, transforming the dish into an easy-to-make and crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch option. With layers of toasted English muffins, Canadian bacon, eggs, and a rich, creamy hollandaise sauce, this casserole combines the flavors you love with the simplicity of one-pan preparation. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is a stress-free way to enjoy gourmet flavors. If you’ve ever craved Eggs Benedict but were intimidated by poaching eggs or whisking hollandaise from scratch, this recipe will make the process approachable and fun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Eggs Benedict Casserole is ideal for anyone who loves breakfast with a luxurious touch but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly practical, combining all the flavors of Eggs Benedict without the last-minute stress of assembling individual servings. The casserole can be prepped the night before, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings or when hosting guests. The combination of textures—crispy, toasted muffins, tender eggs, and the creamy hollandaise—is simply irresistible. Plus, with its customizable nature, you can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Whether you’re serving it at a family brunch or enjoying a quiet morning indulgence, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 17g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 English muffins, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 ounces Canadian bacon, diced

For the hollandaise sauce:

• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and hot
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Paprika for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Casserole Base

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Add the cubed English muffins and diced Canadian bacon to the egg mixture. Toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.

2. Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid. This step is crucial for achieving a moist, custard-like texture.

3. Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the covered casserole in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is fully set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean.

4. Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce

1. While the casserole bakes, make the hollandaise sauce. In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and lemon juice until combined.
2. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double-boiler method), ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
3. Slowly drizzle in the hot melted butter while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Add Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

5. Serve the Casserole

1. Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing it into portions.
2. Drizzle the hollandaise sauce generously over each slice. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and color.

Ingredient Background

The ingredients for Eggs Benedict Casserole are simple yet packed with flavor:

• English Muffins: These provide the signature texture and slight chewiness of traditional Eggs Benedict. Toasting them before assembly ensures they won’t become soggy.
• Canadian Bacon: A leaner option than regular bacon, Canadian bacon brings a smoky, savory flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Eggs and Milk: These form the custard base that holds the casserole together. The richness of whole milk is ideal, but you can use 2% or even a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.
• Hollandaise Sauce: The hallmark of any Eggs Benedict dish, this velvety sauce ties all the elements together with its tangy, buttery goodness.

Technique Tips

1. Toast the Muffins: Toasting the English muffin cubes before assembling the casserole will prevent sogginess and add a satisfying texture.
2. Make Hollandaise Ahead: While fresh hollandaise sauce is best, you can prepare it up to an hour ahead and keep it warm in a thermos.
3. Double-Boiler Technique: When making the hollandaise, don’t let the bowl touch the simmering water to avoid scrambling the eggs.
4. Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking; this makes it easier to cut clean slices.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Mini Individual Servings: Use ramekins or muffin tins to create individual portions. Perfect for brunch parties!
2. Layered Variation: Add layers of spinach or sautéed mushrooms between the English muffin cubes for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Holiday-Themed: Garnish with red and green bell peppers for a festive touch during the holidays.

Additional Tips for Success

• Always use fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture in your casserole.
• If you’re new to hollandaise sauce, consider using a blender for a foolproof method.
• Experiment with herbs—add chopped chives, dill, or thyme to the custard mixture for added depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian: Swap the Canadian bacon for sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or avocado slices.
2. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread cubes in place of English muffins.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture or use spicy sausage instead of Canadian bacon.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing:

• Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for best results.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Use whole-grain English muffins for added fiber.
2. Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the hollandaise butter to reduce calories and increase protein.
3. Incorporate vegetables like spinach, kale, or tomatoes for a nutrient boost.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Eggs Benedict Casserole is a fantastic dish for a variety of occasions:

• Brunch Buffets: Serve alongside fresh fruit salad, croissants, and a selection of juices.
• Holidays: Pair it with mimosas for a luxurious Christmas or Easter breakfast.
• Potlucks: Bring the casserole in a disposable dish for easy cleanup and transport.

Special Equipment

• A 9×13-inch baking dish
• A heatproof mixing bowl for the hollandaise
• A whisk for the sauce and custard
• A serrated knife for slicing the English muffins

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh in the morning for best results.

2. How do I prevent the hollandaise sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low and whisk constantly. Using a double boiler helps maintain the right temperature.

3. Can I use regular bacon instead of Canadian bacon?

Absolutely. Cook and crumble regular bacon before adding it to the casserole for a crispy, smoky variation.

4. Is there a dairy-free option for hollandaise sauce?

Yes, you can use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk in the recipe for a lactose-free version.

5. Can I freeze the casserole after baking?

While it’s best to freeze before baking, you can freeze baked leftovers. Reheat in the oven to restore the texture.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions on medium power.

7. Can I use pre-made hollandaise sauce?

Yes, store-bought hollandaise can save time, but homemade always tastes better.

8. What other meats work well in this casserole?

Ham, turkey sausage, or even smoked salmon are excellent alternatives to Canadian bacon.

Conclusion

Eggs Benedict Casserole is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy the indulgent flavors of a classic brunch favorite with minimal effort. Its rich, creamy hollandaise sauce and tender, flavorful base make it a showstopper for any breakfast or brunch table. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply elevating your everyday breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity of preparation, the gourmet taste, and the endless customization possibilities that make this dish a winner every time!

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