Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe

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Introduction
Ingredients
Timing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Nutritional Information
Healthier Alternatives
Serving Suggestions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Storing and Reheating
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe

Craving Classic Eggs Benedict Without the Hassle?

Did you know that while the average person spends at least 15-20 minutes preparing traditional Eggs Benedict (what with poaching eggs perfectly and whisking hollandaise from scratch), a staggering 70% of home cooks wish there was a way to get that decadent flavour with less stress? If you’re nodding along, you’re in the right place! This Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole is your answer to enjoying all the rich, savory, and comforting elements of this beloved brunch dish, but in a simple, make-ahead format. Imagine waking up to a bubbling, golden casserole, infused with the irresistible aroma of Canadian bacon, soft baked eggs, and a creamy, dreamy hollandaise – all achievable with minimal morning effort. This recipe transforms the fussy classic into a weeknight-friendly or crowd-pleasing weekend brunch staple. Get ready to simplify your mornings and elevate your brunch game!

Delectable Ingredients for Your Casserole

The magic of this Eggs Benedict Casserole lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic Eggs Benedict experience:

English Muffins: The rustic, nooks-and-crannies texture of toasted English muffins is perfect for soaking up the deliciousness. We’re going to chop them up and layer them in the casserole. You’ll need about 6-8.
Canadian Bacon: This lean, savory meat is a classic for a reason! Its mild, smoky flavor is ideal. We’ll need about 8-12 slices.
- Substitution: If Canadian bacon isn’t your favorite, thinly sliced ham or even crispy cooked bacon can be used, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Prosciutto can also add a sophisticated salty note.
Eggs: The star of the show! We’ll need 8-10 large eggs, depending on how egg-forward you like your casserole. Their rich yolks will create a luscious sauce as they bake.
- For a richer texture: Use fresh, large eggs. Their yolks are typically more vibrant and flavorful.
Milk: Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but 2% will also work. Roughly 1.5 cups.
- Dairy-free swap: Unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used, though it might impart a subtle flavor.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of Gruyère and Mozzarella is fantastic for its nutty depth and meltability. About 1 cup.
- Alternative cheeses: A sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan can be excellent.
Butter: For sautéing and adding richness. About 2 tablespoons, divided.
Salt and Black Pepper: To season everything perfectly. Freshly ground black pepper offers the best aroma and bite.
For the Quick Hollandaise Sauce (optional, but highly recommended):
- 3 large egg yolks
- Juice of half a lemon (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and warm
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Quick Hollandaise Tip: If you’re short on time, a good quality store-bought hollandaise sauce can be a lifesaver.

The Timeline: Effortless Prep, Rewarding Bake

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
30-40 minutes

Total Time:
50-60 minutes

This Eggs Benedict Casserole is a fantastic time-saver. While traditional Eggs Benedict can easily take 15-20 minutes of active cooking time for just one serving, this casserole brings that down to about 20 minutes of prep, and then your oven does the rest. Compared to the average casserole recipe that often requires longer bake times or more intricate steps, this dish is refreshingly straightforward, making it ideal for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

A close-up shot of the prepared Eggs Benedict Casserole bubbling in a baking dish, with golden-brown edges and visible layers of muffin, bacon, and egg.

Step-by-Step Mastery: Crafting Your Casserole

Let’s break down how to create this delightful breakfast bake. Each step is designed for clarity and ease, ensuring a perfect result every time.

Step 1: Prep the Muffins

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Tear or cut the English muffins into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, toss the muffin pieces with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread these seasoned muffin pieces in a single layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This initial layer is crucial for building that wonderful texture and ensuring every bite has that toasty goodness.

Step 2: Add the Bacon and Hollandaise

Next, arrange the Canadian bacon slices (torn into pieces if large) over the English muffin layer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, 4-6 of the eggs (or yolks for a richer texture), half of the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy. Pour this creamy egg mixture evenly over the muffin and bacon layers, ensuring it seeps down into all the nooks and crannies. If you’re feeling adventurous and want that authentic Eggs Benedict tang, prepare your quick hollandaise sauce now and drizzle about half of it over the top. Reserve the remaining hollandaise for serving.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This initial covered bake allows the eggs to set gently without browning too quickly and ensures the inside is cooked through. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the eggs are set (a toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean), and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is simply divine!

Step 4: The Finishing Touch

Once baked to golden perfection, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up slightly, making it easier to serve. Just before serving, drizzle the remaining warm hollandaise sauce over the top. If you didn’t add hollandaise during the baking process, now is the time to spoon it generously over each portion. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.

Nutritional Snapshot

While individual ingredients and portion sizes can vary, one serving (approximately 1/8th of the casserole) typically offers:

Calories: ~350-450 kcal
Protein: ~18-25g
Fat: ~20-30g
Carbohydrates: ~15-25g

Please note that these are approximate values. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to calculate based on your specific ingredients and quantities.

Lighter Twists, Uncompromised Flavor

Want to enjoy this decadent dish with a healthier spin? Here are some swaps that keep the flavor profile wonderfully intact:

Leaner Protein: Opt for lean turkey Canadian bacon or even fully cooked, crumbled chicken sausage instead of traditional pork Canadian bacon.
Whole Wheat English Muffins: Swap standard English muffins for their whole wheat counterparts to boost fiber content.
Reduced Fat Cheese: Use a reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack. While it might melt slightly differently, the flavor is still satisfying.
Lower Fat Hollandaise: Consider making a lighter hollandaise using Greek yogurt or avocado as a base, or simply use a good quality store-bought lighter version. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a dash of Dijon mustard can also mimic some of the brightness.
More Veggies: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or onions can be layered in with the bacon for added nutrients and texture.

Perfect Pairings for Your Casserole

This Eggs Benedict Casserole is a hearty dish on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary sides:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright, refreshing fruit salad offers a lovely contrast to the richness of the casserole. Think berries, melon, and citrus.
Crispy Potatoes: Roasted breakfast potatoes, home fries, or even a simple hash are always a welcome addition.
Green Salad: A light, zesty green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the meal.
Avocado Slices: Creamy slices of avocado add another layer of healthy fats and a delightful texture.
A Mimosa or Bloody Mary: For a celebratory brunch, don’t forget a classic brunch beverage!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:

Not Toasting Muffins Enough: If you don’t toast or lightly butter your muffin pieces, they can become soggy and lose their texture.
Over-Baking the Eggs: This can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on it during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Skipping the Rest Time: Allowing the casserole to rest briefly helps it set, preventing it from falling apart when served.
Undersalting: Eggs need proper seasoning! Don’t be shy with salt and pepper, especially in the egg mixture.
Cold Hollandaise: If making hollandaise from scratch, ensure butter is warm and whisk vigorously to emulsify. Cold hollandaise can break.

Storing and Reheating

This casserole is fantastic for make-ahead meals:

To Store: Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating the whole casserole, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the top. You may want to add a fresh drizzle of hollandaise after reheating.

A serving of Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole on a plate, topped with hollandaise sauce and a sprinkle of chives, ready to be enjoyed.

Embrace the Simplicity, Savor the Flavor

There you have it! An Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole that’s a true game-changer for any brunch or breakfast occasion. It delivers all the beloved taste and texture of the classic, with a fraction of the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weekend morning or hosting a relaxed brunch with friends, this make-ahead marvel is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, give this simple recipe a try, and rediscover the joy of a stress-free Eggs Benedict experience. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Assemble the casserole completely (up to the point of baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

What type of baking dish is best?

A standard 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal. Ceramic, glass, or metal will all work equally well for this recipe.

How do I ensure my eggs are cooked through but not rubbery?

The key is the two-stage baking process: covered first to gently cook, then uncovered to brown. Also, letting it rest for a few minutes after baking helps the eggs set further.

Can I use regular bacon instead of Canadian bacon?

Yes, you can! If using regular bacon, cook it until crispy first, then drain it well and crumble it before adding it to the casserole. This will change the flavor profile slightly, making it smokier.

What if I don’t have ingredients for hollandaise?

No problem! The casserole is still delicious without the hollandaise. You can also serve it with a drizzle of melted butter, a sprinkle of paprika, or a light béchamel sauce for extra richness.