Introduction to Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Juggling multiple tasks, I know how precious those early morning moments can be. That’s why I adore my recipe for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole! It’s an easy, comforting dish that takes the stress out of breakfast. Imagine waking up to a beautifully baked casserole, layered with all the flavors of classic eggs benedict, without any fuss. Perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself on a slow Sunday, this casserole combines convenience and taste in a way that will leave your loved ones smiling. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a game-changer for busy mornings! It’s incredibly easy to prepare the night before, so you can enjoy a delicious brunch with minimal effort. The layers of savory Canadian bacon, fluffy eggs, and creamy cheddar create a flavor explosion. Plus, with its make-ahead nature, you’ll impress your family or guests without breaking a sweat. What’s not to love about a stress-free and scrumptious breakfast?
Ingredients for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial step in making your Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole. Each component adds its own magic to this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- English muffins: These golden gems form the base. Cut into cubes, they soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Canadian bacon: This smoky delight brings that classic eggs benedict flavor. Feel free to swap it for smoked ham or turkey bacon for a twist.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, tangy flavor. You can use any cheese you like, but I love the sharp bite of cheddar in this recipe.
- Half and half or heavy cream: This is what makes the custard luxurious. If you want to lighten it up, use whole milk for a slightly different texture.
- Eggs: Key to binding everything together! Go for fresh eggs for the best flavor.
- Fine sea salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning. I like using freshly ground pepper for added depth.
- Ground mustard powder: This adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Granulated garlic and onion powder: Quick and easy flavor boosters that pack a punch. Fresh versions work too if you have them on hand!
- Dried thyme: A hint of herbaceous flavor that complements the savory elements perfectly. Fresh thyme could work wonderfully as well.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch can elevate the dish with cozy warmth!
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a touch of indulgence, ensuring crispy edges.
- Paprika: This is just for a pop of color and a slight smokiness on top.
- Hollandaise sauce: Essential for the finishing touch! You can use my easy blender hollandaise sauce recipe or a store-bought mix if you’re short on time.
- Fresh herbs: Chopped chives or parsley offer a fresh burst of color and flavor to garnish your casserole.
You’ll find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
This recipe for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delightful journey through layers of flavor. I promise you, each step is straightforward and satisfying. Let’s break it down, shall we?
Step 1: Prepare the English Muffins
Start by spreading your cubed English muffins on a baking sheet. You want them to dry out overnight, which helps them soak up the custard beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can also toast the cubes under the grill until they’re slightly crispy.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Once your muffins are ready, it’s time for the fun part! Grab a 32 × 20 cm baking dish and grease it up with a bit of cooking spray. Layer half of the English muffin cubes in the bottom, then add half of the cubed Canadian bacon and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers, finishing off with the remaining cheese on top. This creates a delicious interplay of textures and flavors!
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
Now for the creamy custard! In a large bowl, whisk together your half and half (or heavy cream), eggs, sea salt, black pepper, mustard powder, granulated garlic, onion powder, thyme, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is smooth and dreamily homogenous. This custard is the heart of your casserole!
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Pour that luscious custard evenly over the layered ingredients in your dish. Gently press the muffin cubes down with the back of a spoon, ensuring they soak in the mixture. Cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything moist. Place it in the fridge overnight—this is when the magic happens!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
On the big day, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove the casserole from the fridge about 15 minutes before baking to take the chill off. Dot the top with cubed butter and sprinkle lightly with paprika for some color. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover it and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will have your family flocking to the kitchen!
Step 6: Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce
While your casserole is baking, it’s the perfect time to whip up your hollandaise sauce. You can make it from scratch with my handy easy blender hollandaise sauce recipe or use a convenient hollandaise sauce mix if you’re pressed for time. Either way, it’s the cherry on top of this stunning dish!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole has rested for about 5 minutes after baking, drizzle it generously with your hollandaise sauce and garnish with your chopped fresh herbs. Now it’s ready to serve! Pair it with a refreshing greens salad or some fresh fruit for a well-rounded brunch that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to dry your English muffins thoroughly; this step helps them absorb the custard.
- Cover the dish tightly overnight to keep your casserole from drying out.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip refrigeration, but allowing it to sit overnight enhances flavor.
- Feel free to adjust spices according to your family’s taste preferences.
- Garnish generously with herbs right before serving for the best presentation.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish (32 × 20 cm): An equivalent size works too if you don’t have this one.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size you have on hand—two medium bowls work perfectly.
- Whisk: A fork can serve as a substitute in a pinch.
- Baking sheet: Ideal for drying English muffins; a tray works just as well.
- Plastic wrap: Aluminum foil can be used to cover your dish overnight.
Variations of Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the Canadian bacon with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a delicious meat-free option.
- Smoked Salmon: For a luxurious twist, swap ham for smoked salmon and add capers and dill for an upscale brunch experience.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the custard mixture for a delightful heat.
- Diabetic-Friendly: Use low-fat cheese and whole grain English muffins to create a healthier version while still enjoying the same great taste.
- Gluten-Free: Switch out regular English muffins for gluten-free options to ensure everyone can indulge without worry.
Serving Suggestions for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Fresh Salad: Pair your casserole with a mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Fruit Platter: Serve a colorful assortment of seasonal fruits to add a refreshing touch.
- Refreshing Beverages: Offer freshly squeezed orange juice or mimosas for a delightful brunch vibe.
- Elegant Garnish: A sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can elevate the presentation.
- Warm Bread: Consider serving with crusty artisan rolls to soak up any leftover hollandaise sauce.
FAQs about Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Many questions arise when trying a new recipe like this Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole. I’m here to help clarify some common concerns!
Can I prepare Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! The beauty of this casserole is in its make-ahead nature. You can prepare it the night before and let it refrigerate overnight. This sets the flavors beautifully, making it a top choice for a stress-free brunch.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Of course! While sharp white cheddar cheese is a favorite for its bold flavor, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. The options are endless!
What can I substitute for Canadian bacon?
If Canadian bacon isn’t your thing, don’t fret! You can substitute it with smoked ham, turkey bacon, or even vegetarian options like roasted vegetables for a delicious and unique spin on this dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven to enjoy those delicious flavors all over again!
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking for best results. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole embodies just that! With its uncomplicated preparation and remarkable flavors, this dish transforms an ordinary morning into a delightful occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special brunch or enjoying a cozy family breakfast, this casserole creates lasting memories around the table. The best part? You get to savor the wonderful aromas wafting through your home without the stress of last-minute cooking. So go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously easy breakfast that will surely be a hit every time!
Print
Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes + overnight refrigeration
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
An easy and delicious Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole, perfect for breakfast or brunch, layered with English muffins, Canadian bacon, and topped with a creamy custard and hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients
- 340 g English muffins, split and cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 450 g Canadian bacon or smoked ham, cubed
- 200 g sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded, divided use
- 480 ml half and half or heavy cream
- 8 large eggs
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp granulated garlic
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- Paprika, for sprinkling
- 1 batch Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce or 35 g hollandaise sauce mix
- Fresh chives or flat-leaf parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Spread English muffin cubes on a baking sheet to dry out overnight, or toast briefly under the grill until just crisp.
- Grease a 32 × 20 cm baking dish with cooking spray. Arrange half the English muffin cubes in the base, followed by half the ham and half the shredded cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese.
- In a bowl, vigorously whisk together the half and half, eggs, salt, pepper, mustard powder, granulated garlic, onion powder, thyme, and nutmeg until smooth and homogenous.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. Press muffin cubes gently into the custard with the back of a spoon for full absorption. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat oven to 175°C. Remove dish from fridge 15 minutes before baking. Dot the surface with cubed butter and sprinkle lightly with paprika. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until top is golden and a knife inserted in the centre comes out clean.
- While casserole bakes, prepare hollandaise sauce according to preferred method or package instructions.
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with hollandaise sauce and garnish generously with chives or parsley. Serve with extra sauce on the side if desired.
Notes
- Ensure to cover the dish tightly when refrigerating overnight to avoid drying out.
- This casserole can be made a day ahead of time and baked in the morning.
- Feel free to substitute the Canadian bacon with other proteins or veggies for variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
