If you love the rich, creamy goodness of classic eggs benedict, then let me introduce you to my favorite breakfast game-changer: the eggs benedict casserole! This baked version takes everything we adore about the original dish—think buttery English muffins, savory ham, and that luscious hollandaise sauce—and turns it into a warm, comforting casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. I remember the first time I made this for a weekend brunch with friends; the kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas as it baked, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! Trust me, this dish will not only brighten your mornings but also bring everyone together around the table, ready for a delicious feast!
Ingredients for Eggs Benedict Casserole
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup diced ham (feel free to use your favorite type)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 package English muffins, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup hollandaise sauce (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
How to Prepare Eggs Benedict Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and comes out just right. No one wants a soggy bottom, right? So, let that oven do its thing while you prep the rest!
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
Grab a large mixing bowl and let’s whisk! You’ll want to add the 8 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Whisk them together until you’ve got a nice, smooth mixture. This is where all that flavor comes from, so make sure it’s well combined!
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now it’s time to assemble! Take a greased baking dish and start layering. Begin with the torn English muffins, spreading them out evenly across the bottom. Then, sprinkle the diced ham over the muffins, followed by the shredded cheese. I like to use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty, gooey goodness. Make sure everything is evenly distributed—this way, every slice will have that perfect combination of flavors!
Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture
Once your layers are set, it’s time to pour that egg mixture over everything. Do it slowly and evenly, so every nook and cranny gets soaked up. You want to make sure all the muffins and fillings are nicely covered. It’s like a warm hug for your ingredients!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pop that beautiful dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden and slightly puffed. A little jiggle is okay, but if it’s still super wobbly, give it a few more minutes. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be worth the wait!
Step 6: Serve with Hollandaise Sauce
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing—this helps it hold together better. Drizzle that delicious hollandaise sauce on top just before serving. Whether you go store-bought or homemade, this creamy sauce is the cherry on top of your eggs benedict casserole, and it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Tips for Success
I’ve got some insider tips to help you achieve the perfect eggs benedict casserole that’ll wow your family and friends every time! Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- Get Creative with Ingredients: Don’t be afraid to mix things up! You can add sautéed spinach, diced tomatoes, or even some cooked bacon for extra flavor. The beauty of this casserole is its versatility!
- Use Day-Old English Muffins: If you have stale English muffins lying around, don’t toss them! They soak up the egg mixture beautifully, giving your casserole a wonderful texture.
- Make Ahead: Want to save time in the morning? Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and pop it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning while you sip your coffee—easy peasy!
- Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to switch up the cheese! Swiss, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a delightful twist to your casserole.
- Check Doneness: If you’re unsure whether it’s done, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Top It Off: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to mastering this delicious breakfast dish! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious eggs benedict casserole! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 18g
This casserole packs a hearty punch of protein and flavor, making it a satisfying start to your day. Enjoy every bite while feeling great about what you’re fueling your body with!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this eggs benedict casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that come up when whipping up this delightful dish:
Can I use different types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! While I love using diced ham, you can swap it out for cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover turkey. Just make sure it’s cooked and diced so it blends well with the other ingredients.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Just omit the ham and consider adding some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor. You’ll still have a delicious and hearty breakfast without the meat!
How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and let it chill in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast that feels fresh and warm!
What should I serve with eggs benedict casserole?
This casserole is a star on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with some fresh fruit, a light salad, or even crispy hash browns for a complete brunch experience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: This casserole is so easy to whip up! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious breakfast ready to go, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Delicious Flavors: Every bite is packed with the classic flavors of eggs benedict—think savory ham, creamy cheese, and that rich hollandaise sauce. It’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family brunch or a holiday celebration, this dish can easily feed a crowd. Just slice and serve, and you’ll be the star of the table!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it the night before, letting the flavors meld together. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’ll have a warm, hearty breakfast with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Feel free to make it your own! Add your favorite veggies or switch up the meats for a personal touch. This casserole is versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste.
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something about a warm, cheesy casserole that just feels like a hug in a dish. It’s a cozy way to start your day!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve whipped up this delicious eggs benedict casserole and you’ve got some leftovers? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat it so it stays just as tasty as the first day!
First off, let the casserole cool completely before you store it. This helps prevent condensation that can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, slice it into individual portions and place them in airtight containers. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then pop them into a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple. If you’re using the microwave, just pop a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the slice on a baking sheet, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. Either way, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
Enjoy every bite of this comforting casserole again and again!
Eggs Benedict Casserole: 6 Steps to Pure Breakfast Bliss
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious baked version of classic eggs benedict.
Ingredients
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 package English muffins, torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup hollandaise sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the torn English muffins, ham, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set.
- Drizzle hollandaise sauce on top before serving.
Notes
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes.
- This dish can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
Keywords: eggs benedict casserole, breakfast casserole, baked eggs benedict
