Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast dish: the *eggs benedict casserole*! It’s this dreamy combination of fluffy eggs, tender English muffins, and that luscious, creamy hollandaise sauce that just ties everything together. Seriously, every bite is like a warm hug! I remember the first time I made this for my family on a lazy Sunday morning. The aroma filled the house, and I could hear the excited chatter as everyone gathered around the table. It quickly became a family favorite, and now it’s a staple at our brunches. Trust me, it’s not just delicious; it’s also super easy to whip up, which makes it perfect for those busy mornings when you still want something special. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients for Eggs Benedict Casserole
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 English muffins, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
How to Prepare Eggs Benedict Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! You’ll want to set it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the casserole cook evenly and ensures that everything comes together just right. Trust me, you don’t want to rush this step!
Whisk the Egg Mixture
Now, grab a large bowl and let’s whisk together the magic! Start with the 6 eggs, then add in the 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. Whisk until everything is blended beautifully—think fluffy and frothy! This is where the flavor begins to build, so take your time and get it nice and smooth.
Combine Ingredients
Next up, it’s time to fold in the fun stuff! Toss in those torn English muffins and the diced ham. I like to give it a gentle stir to make sure every piece is coated with that creamy egg mixture. You want an even distribution so that every bite has a bit of everything—no one wants a muffin-less bite!
Pour into Baking Dish
Now, let’s pour this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly—this ensures it cooks perfectly throughout. I usually use a spatula to help with the transition, but you can just pour it in and smooth it out with the back of a spoon if that’s easier!
Add Cheese and Bake
Here comes the best part! Sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Seriously, go to town with it! Now it’s time to pop the dish into the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, but keep an eye on it! You want it to be set in the middle and lightly golden on top. If you give it a gentle shake, you shouldn’t see too much jiggle—just a little is okay, but too much means it needs more time!
Serve with Hollandaise Sauce
Once it’s out of the oven and looking all golden and inviting, let it cool for just a minute before drizzling that creamy hollandaise sauce on top. This is the finishing touch that takes it from great to absolutely divine! Slice it up and serve—everyone will be raving about it, I promise!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy to prepare – just mix, pour, and bake!
- Deliciously rich flavors that everyone will adore.
- Perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
- Feeds a crowd – great for holidays or special occasions!
- Make-ahead option available for busy mornings.
- Versatile; you can easily customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Comfort food at its finest, combining all the best breakfast elements in one dish.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your eggs benedict casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips:
- Let it Rest: After baking, give the casserole a few minutes to rest before slicing. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Fresh Herbs: For a pop of flavor and color, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. It adds a lovely touch that brightens the dish!
- Customize It: Feel free to get creative! Swap the ham for cooked bacon or sausage, or add some sautéed spinach or tomatoes for a veggie boost. The possibilities are endless!
- Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure whether it’s fully cooked, stick a knife in the center. It should come out clean when it’s ready. If not, just pop it back in for a few more minutes.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven the next morning for an effortless brunch!
Variations of Eggs Benedict Casserole
One of the best things about this eggs benedict casserole is its versatility! You can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Different Proteins: Swap out the ham for crispy bacon, cooked sausage, or even smoked salmon for a luxurious twist. You could also go vegetarian and load it up with hearty veggies!
- Veggie Delight: Add sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or roasted tomatoes to the mix for a burst of color and flavor. You can even throw in some mushrooms for an earthy touch!
- Cheesy Goodness: While cheddar is a classic, try using pepper jack for a little heat, or go for a rich Gruyère or a sharp goat cheese to elevate the dish even more.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, basil, or thyme into the egg mixture for an aromatic flavor boost. It’s a simple way to make it feel gourmet!
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. It’ll wake up your taste buds in the best way!
- Breakfast Burrito Style: Give it a southwest twist by adding black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with avocado and a dollop of salsa for an exciting variation!
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Each variation can bring new life to this beloved casserole, making it a dish you can enjoy in so many different ways. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious eggs benedict casserole fresh and tasty! If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to store them properly:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
- Airtight Container: Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can also cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap if you prefer to keep it in the original baking dish.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Trust me, it’ll still taste great!
- Freezing Option: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole. Just slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last for about 2 months in the freezer.
Now, when it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of methods to keep that creamy goodness intact:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the texture!
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can pop a slice in the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel and heat it in 30-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, or it might dry out.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your eggs benedict casserole even after it’s made its grand debut on your brunch table. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the nutritional side of this delightful eggs benedict casserole! Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 16g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s always fun to enjoy a hearty breakfast knowing you’re getting a good balance of protein, fats, and carbs. Perfect for fueling your day ahead!
FAQ About Eggs Benedict Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven the next morning, and you’ll have a delicious brunch ready with minimal effort!
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you’re looking for a change or need a vegetarian option, feel free to swap the ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or simply load it up with your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms. It’s all about making it your own!
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you’ll need to use gluten-free English muffins. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! You can definitely freeze the casserole. Just make sure to slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly, and store them in a freezer-safe container. It’ll last about 2 months, and all you need to do is thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
How do I know when it’s done?
You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle too much. A gentle shake of the dish can help you check! It should also be lightly golden on top. If you’re ever in doubt, sticking a knife in the center should come out clean.
What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a star on its own, but you can elevate your brunch by serving it with fresh fruit, a light salad, or some crispy breakfast potatoes on the side. A little extra hollandaise on top never hurts either!
Can I use almond milk or other milk alternatives?
Yes, you can use almond milk or other milk substitutes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it should still turn out delicious!
What if I don’t have hollandaise sauce?
If you don’t have hollandaise sauce on hand, you can make a quick alternative by mixing some mayonnaise with a little lemon juice and Dijon mustard for a creamy topping. It won’t be exactly the same, but it still adds a nice touch!
Eggs Benedict Casserole: 7 Comforting Flavors Await
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 8 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A delicious breakfast casserole featuring eggs, English muffins, and creamy hollandaise sauce.
Ingrédients
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 English muffins, torn into pieces
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the torn English muffins and diced ham. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with hollandaise sauce before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the ham.
- Can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Top with fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 35 minutes
- Catégorie: Breakfast
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 20g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 20g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 16g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 200mg
Mots-clés: eggs benedict casserole
