If you’re craving a comforting brunch dish that wraps all the classic flavors of a beloved breakfast staple into one easy-to-serve delight, look no further than this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe. This casserole takes the elegant charm of traditional Eggs Benedict and transforms it into a warm, hearty dish perfect for sharing with family or friends. Imagine layers of fluffy English muffins, savory Canadian bacon, a luscious egg custard, and sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection and finished with a silky hollandaise drizzle. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and comfort that will quickly become your go-to brunch favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Bringing this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe to life is delightfully simple thanks to a handful of trusty ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, contributing texture, flavor, or that beautiful final look that makes this dish irresistible.
- 12 large eggs: The rich, creamy base that binds everything together and delivers that classic custardy texture.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds moisture and tenderness for a soft, fluffy casserole.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right gentle kick to balance the richness.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: A subtle warmth that gives this casserole a little comforting edge.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a mild tang and depth that elevates the egg custard.
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered: These add a sturdy texture and soak up the egg mixture beautifully.
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham: The savory, smoky meat that brings traditional Eggs Benedict flavors into this casserole.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts within the casserole, adding richness and gooey indulgence.
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce: The silky finishing touch that ties the entire dish together elegantly.
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish: Provides a fresh, vibrant color and a hint of mild onion or herbal brightness.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out with a perfect crust, generously grease a large baking dish. This sets the stage for a smooth baking experience with a golden finish.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the 12 eggs with whole milk, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is smooth and frothy. This step is crucial to create a light, fluffy custard that will soak into the muffins and tie all the flavors together.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Start by spreading the quartered English muffins evenly in the baking dish. Next, layer your Canadian bacon or ham over the muffins to infuse the dish with that irresistible savory note. Then pour the egg mixture evenly on top and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese last to create a melty, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to let everything cook through gently. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to turn a beautiful golden brown and the casserole to set firmly. This baking process develops the textures that make this dish so cozy and satisfying.
Step 5: Finish with Hollandaise and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before drizzling with the hollandaise sauce. This luscious sauce adds that signature Eggs Benedict creaminess and an elegant touch. Finally, sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and a fresh, subtle flavor contrast.
How to Serve Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe is more than just a pretty finishing touch; it adds flavor and texture contrast that brightens each bite. Fresh chopped chives deliver a mild oniony pop, while parsley offers a fresh herbal note. For an extra zing, a light dusting of smoked paprika or a few drops of hot sauce can truly elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
Since this casserole is quite hearty, pairing it with light and fresh sides works perfectly. Consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple fruit salad composed of berries and citrus segments. These sides cut through the richness and add a refreshing balance, making your brunch spread feel complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe in individual ramekins makes for a charming presentation, especially for guests. You can also slice the casserole into neat squares and arrange them on a large platter, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens for a visually stunning touch. Adding a small ramekin of extra hollandaise on the side lets everyone customize their serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing any other fridge odors. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it gently to bring back its comforting warmth without drying it out.
Freezing
For longer storage, this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe freezes wonderfully. Cut it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It stays delicious for up to two months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave on medium power to avoid rubbery eggs, or reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through and bubbly. Adding a fresh drizzle of hollandaise sauce after reheating helps revive the classic flavors and texture.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the Canadian bacon or ham for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a vegetarian bacon alternative. The eggs, cheese, and hollandaise sauce will still give you all the richness and satisfaction you’re craving.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is fantastic here because of its sharpness and meltability, but you could experiment with Gruyere or Swiss cheese for a nuttier flavor profile. Just choose cheeses that melt well and complement the savory Canadian bacon and egg custard.
Is hollandaise sauce necessary?
While hollandaise sauce finishes the dish authentically and adds creamy luxury, you could serve the casserole with a light drizzle of homemade or store-bought béchamel sauce for a different but still delicious twist.
Can I prepare this vegetarian Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe in advance?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it as directed for a fresh, warm breakfast without the morning rush.
How spicy is the cayenne pepper in the recipe?
The ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper adds a gentle warmth rather than heat, balancing the richness of the cheese and eggs. Feel free to adjust or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy Breakfast Classic Recipe really brings the heart of brunch right to your table without the fuss. It’s a dish that feels special and indulgent while being incredibly approachable to make. Whether for a leisurely weekend morning or a holiday gathering, it’s sure to impress and satisfy every bite. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and enjoy every cozy, comforting forkful!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings (8 slices)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Eggs Benedict Casserole offers a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, combining layers of English muffins, Canadian bacon, and a rich egg mixture baked to golden perfection. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and finished with creamy hollandaise sauce and fresh herbs, it’s a cozy and satisfying dish perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast.
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 Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Eggs and Seasoning: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and Dijon mustard until the mixture becomes frothy and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the quartered English muffins evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then add the Canadian bacon or ham. Pour the egg mixture over these layers and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the casserole to set and cook through evenly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is fully cooked.
- Finish and Garnish: Let the casserole cool slightly before drizzling with hollandaise sauce. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute Canadian bacon with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Make sure to use a large enough baking dish to allow even cooking without spilling.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- Use fresh hollandaise sauce or store-bought for convenience.
- Adjust seasonings to taste, especially the cayenne pepper for desired heat level.
