It was a chilly Sunday morning, and I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into a hearty, comforting breakfast. As I stepped into the kitchen, the aroma of sizzling Canadian bacon and the creamy scent of hollandaise sauce filled the air. My mom was bustling around, whisking eggs and assembling the most incredible Eggs Benedict Casserole I had ever seen.
Growing up, Eggs Benedict Casserole was a special treat in our household. Mom would make it for lazy Sunday brunches or whenever we had guests over. There was something so indulgent and satisfying about the layers of fluffy eggs, savory Canadian bacon, and rich hollandaise sauce, all baked to perfection. I’d always reach for a second (or third!) helping, savoring every bite.
Now, as an adult, I’ve perfected my own Eggs Benedict Casserole recipe, and it’s become a go-to dish that never fails to impress. Whether I’m hosting a fancy brunch or just treating my family to a delicious weekend meal, this casserole is always a hit.
Why This Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Eggs Benedict Casserole
The secret to making an Eggs Benedict Casserole that’ll have your guests raving is all in the preparation. By layering the ingredients just right and baking it to golden-brown perfection, you end up with a dish that’s creamy, savory, and utterly irresistible.
The key is to strike the perfect balance between the fluffy eggs, the salty Canadian bacon, the sharp cheddar cheese, and the rich hollandaise sauce. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that come together in every bite. Plus, the make-ahead nature of this casserole means you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a closer look at the star players in this Eggs Benedict Casserole:
- 12 large eggs: The foundation of the dish, these eggs create a custard-like base that’s both creamy and fluffy.
- 1 cup whole milk: This adds moisture and richness to the eggs, ensuring a luxurious texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream takes the egg mixture to new levels of indulgence.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Just a touch of mustard adds a subtle tanginess that complements the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
- 6 English muffins, cut into 1-inch cubes: The cubed muffins provide a delightful contrast in texture.
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon, chopped: The salty, smoky bacon is a key component of traditional Eggs Benedict.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The cheese adds a lovely creaminess and melty goodness.
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce, store-bought or homemade: This classic sauce is the crowning glory, tying all the flavors together.
Step-by-Step Eggs Benedict Casserole Instructions
Preparing Your Eggs Benedict Casserole
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 45 minutes, this Eggs Benedict Casserole is a breeze to put together. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a 9×13-inch baking dish, and a few basic kitchen tools.
1- Start by whisking together the 12 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper in the mixing bowl until well combined.
2- Next, arrange the 6 cubed English muffins in the baking dish. Sprinkle the 8 ounces of chopped Canadian bacon over the muffins, then pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
3- Gently press down on the mixture to ensure the muffins are fully submerged in the egg. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
4- Once the 15 minutes are up, remove the foil and sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
5- While the casserole is baking, prepare the 1 cup of hollandaise sauce according to the instructions on the package or your favorite homemade recipe.
6- Finally, remove the Eggs Benedict Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the casserole warm, drizzled with the creamy hollandaise sauce. Enjoy this indulgent brunch dish with your loved ones!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Eggs Benedict Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Soak the cubed English muffins in the egg mixture for the full 15 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Bake the casserole until the center is set and the edges are golden brown, but be careful not to overbake, as this can make the eggs dry.
- Serve the casserole immediately, while it’s still hot, for the ultimate in creamy, cheesy goodness.
Serving and Storing Your Eggs Benedict Casserole
Perfect Pairings for Eggs Benedict Casserole
This Eggs Benedict Casserole, which serves 8 people, is the ultimate centerpiece for a delicious brunch spread. To complement the rich and savory flavors, I recommend serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad, a light and crisp green salad, and a refreshing mimosa or Bloody Mary.
For a heartier meal, you could also add roasted potatoes or a side of roasted asparagus. And don’t forget the fresh-squeezed orange juice or a hot cup of coffee to complete the brunch experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Eggs Benedict Casserole is that it’s perfect for meal prepping and making ahead of time. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
When you’re ready to serve, simply pop the casserole in the oven and bake as directed. This makes it a breeze to entertain or enjoy a stress-free Sunday brunch with your family.
If you have any leftovers, you can store the Eggs Benedict Casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
For longer-term storage, the baked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven as directed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Eggs Benedict Casserole
Creative Eggs Benedict Casserole Variations
While the classic Eggs Benedict Casserole is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this beloved brunch dish:
- Swap the Canadian bacon for smoked ham or sautéed spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar and Swiss or Gruyère, for a more complex cheese flavor.
- Drizzle the casserole with a hollandaise-style sauce made with Greek yogurt for a lighter take.
- Sprinkle the top with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed bacon for a delicious crunchy topping.
Making Eggs Benedict Casserole Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this Eggs Benedict Casserole to be gluten-free, low-carb, or even vegan:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free English muffins or substitute with cubed gluten-free bread.
- To make it low-carb, replace the English muffins with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
- For a vegan Eggs Benedict Casserole, use a plant-based hollandaise sauce and substitute the eggs with a tofu-based scramble or silky cashew cream.
No matter which variations or dietary adaptations you choose, this Eggs Benedict Casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the Canadian bacon with another type of meat?
A: Absolutely! You can use smoked ham, crispy bacon, or even sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian option.
Q: How long should I bake the casserole?
A: The total baking time for this Eggs Benedict Casserole is 45 minutes in a preheated 350°F oven, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
Q: How many servings does this Eggs Benedict Casserole make?
A: This recipe yields 8 servings, making it perfect for a brunch gathering or a hearty weekend breakfast for your family.
Q: What should I do if the casserole seems undercooked or watery?
A: If the center of the casserole is still too soft or appears watery, simply bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the casserole is golden brown on the edges.
Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of Eggs Benedict in a simple, make-ahead casserole. This comforting dish is perfect for a crowd-pleasing brunch or leisurely weekend breakfast.
Ingredients
– 12 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 English muffins, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 8 ounces Canadian bacon, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup hollandaise sauce, store-bought or homemade
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Arrange the cubed English muffins in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped Canadian bacon over the top.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the muffins and bacon, making sure all the pieces are evenly coated.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the hollandaise sauce over the top and sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a combination of Canadian bacon and regular bacon. You can also add sautéed spinach or diced bell peppers to the casserole. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Eggs Benedict Casserole is the ultimate brunch dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich, creamy texture and layers of savory flavors, it’s a true taste of indulgence.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, yet how it delivers such a show-stopping result. Whether you’re hosting a fancy brunch or just treating your loved ones to a special weekend meal, this Eggs Benedict Casserole is sure to become your go-to dish.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, perfectly baked Eggs Benedict Casserole that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to share your experience and photos with me – I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
