Savory Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe
A delicious Savory Eggs Benedict Casserole combining toasted English muffins, tender Canadian bacon, a rich custard with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, all baked to perfection and topped with a creamy homemade Hollandaise sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for brunch or a comforting breakfast gathering.
- Author: Dana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Base & Protein
- 6 English muffins, split in half
- 12 slices Canadian bacon (or smoked ham)
Custard & Cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Hollandaise Sauce
- 3 egg yolks
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- Prepare the Base: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly toast the English muffin halves on a baking sheet for 5 to 7 minutes until just golden. This toasting step helps create a barrier to prevent sogginess when the custard is added. Meanwhile, arrange the Canadian bacon slices on a separate baking sheet to warm slightly for even heat distribution.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture until uniform and slightly frothy, incorporating air for a light and fluffy casserole texture after baking.
- Layer the Muffins: Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Arrange the toasted English muffin halves cut side up in the dish. Place one warmed slice of Canadian bacon on each muffin half, then evenly sprinkle with 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese layer will melt into the custard, connecting the flavors and textures.
- Pour the Custard: Gently pour the egg-milk mixture over the layered muffins and bacon, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. The custard should just cover the muffin layers; a little overflow is normal and will form a golden crust as it bakes.
- Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce: While the casserole bakes, prepare the Hollandaise by whisking 3 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard over a simmering water bath until the mixture thickens and lightens in color, about 3 to 4 minutes. Slowly drizzle in ¼ cup melted unsalted butter while whisking continuously to emulsify. Season with a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Keep the sauce warm and silky for drizzling over the finished casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The custard should be set but still have a gentle jiggle in the center. The top will turn lightly golden. If it browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
- Serve: Once baked, drizzle the warm Hollandaise sauce over the casserole and garnish with 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives. Serve immediately for a rich and satisfying brunch experience.
Notes
- To prevent sogginess, the English muffins should be lightly toasted before layering.
- The gentle jiggle in the center indicates the custard is perfectly set without being overcooked.
- Hollandaise sauce requires constant whisking over gentle heat; use a double boiler or simmering water bath for best results.
- If desired, smoked ham can be used instead of Canadian bacon for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated in the oven to maintain texture.
Keywords: Eggs Benedict casserole, breakfast casserole, savory brunch recipe, baked eggs, hollandaise sauce, English muffin breakfast