Name: Eggs Benedict Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 8 slices of English muffins (torn into pieces); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup diced Canadian bacon; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup hollandaise sauce; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives; Butter for greasing the baking dish

Start your day with a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite! This Eggs Benedict Casserole is a scrumptious blend of buttery bread, creamy hollandaise sauce, and perfectly poached eggs. Ideal for brunch gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare in advance. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

8 slices of English muffins, torn into pieces
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup diced Canadian bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup hollandaise sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 40 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 20g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
In a large bowl, combine the torn English muffins and diced Canadian bacon.
Spread the muffin mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the muffin and bacon layers.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before drizzling with hollandaise sauce.
Garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the Canadian bacon with cooked sausage or diced ham for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, use sautéed spinach or mushrooms instead of meat.

Serving and Pairings

This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a light salad, or crispy breakfast potatoes. Serve it alongside mimosas or coffee for a complete brunch experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the eggs can lead to a rubbery texture—keep an eye on the baking time.
Not letting the casserole rest before serving can make it difficult to cut.
Using stale bread may result in a dry casserole.
Forgetting to grease the baking dish can lead to sticking.
Skipping the hollandaise sauce means missing out on essential flavor.

Helpful Tips

Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it for easy baking in the morning.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
Use a mix of different breads for a unique texture.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

Yes, whole eggs work perfectly for this recipe and provide a richer flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free bread in place of English muffins to make this casserole gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes can be great additions.

What if I don’t have hollandaise sauce?

You can substitute it with a cheese sauce or even a simple drizzle of olive oil for a lighter option.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the Canadian bacon and add extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This Eggs Benedict Casserole is a versatile dish that brings the classic breakfast experience to your table in a new and exciting way. Perfect for gatherings or a special brunch, it combines rich flavors and satisfying textures that everyone will love. Enjoy making this dish and delight in the smiles of your family and friends!