This Eggs Benedict Casserole is a fun twist on the classic dish! With layers of toasted bread, eggs, ham, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home.
If you ask me, this dish is great because you can make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Less fuss, more yum! Who’s ready to enjoy some tasty bites? 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are crucial here, providing the base and richness. If you’re in a pinch, you could use egg substitute or even silken tofu for a non-chicken option.
Bread: I love using brioche for its softness and slight sweetness. However, you can use whatever bread you have on hand—sourdough, whole wheat, or even bagels work great!
Canadian Bacon: Canadian bacon lends a nice flavor. If you want to keep it lighter, turkey bacon or even sautéed spinach can be used for a vegetarian option.
Cheese: Cheddar is a rich choice, but Swiss cheese adds a lovely taste too. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try a nut-based cheese alternative.
Hollandaise Sauce: Classic hollandaise is made from egg yolks, but to simplify, you can use a store-bought version or try a yogurt-based sauce for a healthier twist!
How Do I Make a Creamy Hollandaise Sauce Without a Hassle?
Making hollandaise may seem tricky, but with a bit of practice, it’s totally manageable. The key technique is using a double boiler to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Fill a pot with a little water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring that the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
- Whisk the egg yolks and lemon juice until thickened and pale. This takes just a few minutes.
- Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking continuously until it’s all emulsified and creamy.
- Season your hollandaise to taste, adding a pinch of salt and cayenne for a kick if you like.
Make sure to whisk non-stop while you add the butter; this helps create that velvety texture!
Eggs Benedict Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices bread (such as brioche or thick white bread), cut into cubes
- 6 slices Canadian bacon or ham, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Allow some additional time for making the hollandaise sauce, which takes about 10 minutes. So, a total of around 1 hour to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure even baking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the 6 whole eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined and slightly frothy. This will be the base of your casserole!
3. Combine Bread and Fillings:
Add the cubed bread, chopped Canadian bacon, and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure the bread soaks up the egg mixture. It should be nice and cozy!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased medium-sized casserole dish, spreading it evenly. This will be the heart of your casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Put the casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
6. Make the Hollandaise Sauce:
While the casserole is baking, prepare the hollandaise sauce. Set a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (this is your double boiler). In the bowl, whisk together the 4 egg yolks and lemon juice until it thickens and doubles in volume—this should take a few minutes!
7. Blend in the Butter:
Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking constantly until the sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth. Add cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove it from heat when ready.
8. Finish the Casserole:
Once the casserole is baked, drizzle that warm hollandaise sauce generously over the top. You can’t have Eggs Benedict without it!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives for an extra touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting Eggs Benedict Casserole!
This delightful dish features golden toasted bread cubes, savory pieces of ham, and a melt-in-your-mouth hollandaise sauce that’s sure to impress everyone at the table, just like the one in your photo!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Bread?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread works well for a healthier option, while gluten-free bread can be used to accommodate dietary needs. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up in the casserole!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Just assemble the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, and then bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Hollandaise Sauce?
If you’re looking for an easier option, you can use a store-bought hollandaise sauce. Alternatively, you can create a yogurt-based sauce for a lighter and tangy flavor—simply mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and a bit of mustard!
