Introduction
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish to elevate your brunch table, look no further than this delightful Eggs Benedict Casserole. Inspired by classic brunch flavors, this casserole combines perfectly toasted English muffins with creamy eggs, savory Canadian bacon, and melty Gruyère cheese, all harmoniously topped with a luscious hollandaise sauce. It’s rich, satisfying, and sure to impress your guests, making it the ideal choice for a leisurely weekend gathering or a special occasion breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound English muffins, split and toasted
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup diced cooked Canadian bacon
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- Hollandaise sauce for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), letting the aromas of warm baked goods fill your kitchen.
- Cut the toasted English muffins into bite-sized cubes and place them in a generously greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and frothy.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed English muffins, ensuring every piece is soaked in the rich liquid.
- Sprinkle the diced Canadian bacon and shredded Gruyère cheese over the top, creating a delightful layer of flavor.
- Gently stir the mixture to combine, then sprinkle the chopped chives on top for a pop of freshness and color.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep it moist and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up, set, and beautifully golden brown on top.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with warm hollandaise sauce for an indulgent finish.
Notes or Tips
- For extra richness, feel free to add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar or creamy fontina, to suit your taste.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before! Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Cooking Techniques
This casserole primarily employs the technique of baking, which allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully while forming a golden-brown crust. The layering of ingredients ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Whisking the eggs and milk together until frothy creates a light and fluffy consistency that complements the denser muffin base.
FAQ
- Can this casserole be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Canadian bacon and consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! To freeze, bake the casserole as directed, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
This Eggs Benedict Casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy the timeless flavors of a classic breakfast in a convenient, easy-to-serve form. Rich, creamy, and indulgent, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your brunch repertoire. Gather your friends and family, pour some mimosas, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!