If you’ve ever dreamed of having a classic brunch favorite ready to serve without the last-minute scramble, this Deliciously Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Classic Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine waking up to a warm, golden casserole layered with tender English muffins, savory Canadian bacon, and a rich, velvety hollandaise sauce all baked into one irresistible dish that feeds a crowd effortlessly. It captures all the bright, buttery, and comforting flavors of traditional eggs benedict, but with less fuss and more time to enjoy your guests. This recipe truly transforms Sunday brunch into pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the soft, slightly toasted English muffins providing a sturdy yet tender base, to the salty richness of Canadian bacon, and the silky custard mixture that binds it all together—every element matters in making this brunch classic shine.
- English muffins (6, split and cut into 1-inch pieces): The ideal foundation, offering a delicate crunch once baked and soaking up all the eggy goodness.
- Canadian bacon (12 oz, diced): Adds savory meaty flavor without overpowering the dish, balancing saltiness with tenderness.
- Large eggs (8): The star of the custard mix, creating a soft, fluffy texture throughout.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Makes the casserole creamy and rich while keeping the egg mixture light.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Adds subtle depth without being too pungent or overpowering.
- Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): A gentle touch to enhance overall flavor complexity.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring everything together harmoniously.
- Fresh chives (2 tbsp, chopped, optional): For a bright, fresh garnish and a pop of green color.
- Large egg yolks (4): The base of the homemade hollandaise, lending richness and silkiness.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Provides the perfect tang to cut through the richness of the sauce.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted and warm): Creates the luscious, smooth texture of the hollandaise sauce.
- Pinch of salt: To season the hollandaise just right.
- Dash of cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a subtle kick to brighten the sauce complexity.
How to Make Deliciously Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Classic Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Base
Start by greasing a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter half of your English muffin pieces evenly across the bottom. This creates a sturdy yet soft base that soaks up the custard, making every bite perfectly tender but not soggy.
Step 2: Add the Canadian Bacon
Sprinkle half of your diced Canadian bacon over the muffins, then add the remaining muffin pieces on top, followed by the rest of the bacon. This alternating layering ensures you get flavorful pockets of bacon in every forkful.
Step 3: Mix and Pour the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until completely combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered muffins and bacon, pressing down gently so the muffins can soak up as much flavor as possible.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it overnight or for at least 4 hours. This resting period is key—it allows the muffins to fully absorb the custard, which results in a rich and creamy texture once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil for 35 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the eggs are completely set and the top has a lovely golden hue. This final uncovered bake adds a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 6: Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce
Blend the egg yolks and lemon juice for around 30 seconds until well combined. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the warm melted butter until the sauce thickens into a silky, creamy emulsion. Season with salt and an optional dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. This sauce is the crowning glory that brings your casserole to life.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Drizzle the warm hollandaise sauce generously over the hot casserole, sprinkle with chopped chives if desired, and serve immediately. Each bite combines that buttery hollandaise with savory bacon and custardy eggs—pure brunch bliss!
How to Serve Deliciously Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and a mild oniony bite that complements the rich, creamy hollandaise beautifully. You might also like a few halved cherry tomatoes to introduce a fresh, juicy contrast or a light sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Side Dishes
Pairing this casserole with fresh fruit salad or roasted asparagus balances the indulgence with bright, crisp flavors. For something heartier, consider crispy breakfast potatoes or a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual servings in little ramekins for a charming, personalized touch, especially for special occasions. Alternatively, offer a toppings bar with extra hollandaise, chopped herbs, crumbled bacon, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mature wonderfully overnight, but be sure to reheat gently to keep the eggs tender.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully assembled casserole after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or warm in a preheated 325°F oven until heated through. If hollandaise is refrigerated separately, warm it in a double boiler or microwave briefly to keep that silky texture without curdling.
FAQs
Can I use regular ham instead of Canadian bacon?
Absolutely! Regular ham works fine, but Canadian bacon is traditional for its lean, slightly smoky flavor and firmer texture, which holds up nicely in the casserole.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
While you can bake it right away, chilling overnight really helps the bread soak up the custard fully, resulting in a moister, more cohesive bake. It’s worth the wait!
Can I make the hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
Hollandaise is best served fresh for that perfect silky texture. However, you can prepare it shortly in advance and keep warm in a double boiler or thermos, stirring occasionally to prevent it from separating.
Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, whole milk can be swapped with creamy non-dairy options like almond or oat milk, but the casserole may be slightly less rich. Choose unsweetened varieties to avoid altering the flavor.
How spicy is the cayenne pepper in the hollandaise?
The cayenne is just a dash for subtle warmth and depth. You can omit it entirely if you prefer a milder sauce or adjust to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Deliciously Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Classic Recipe is truly a game changer for hosting brunch. It brings together all the comforting and elegant flavors you love about traditional eggs benedict but without the last-minute fuss and stress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to an indulgent weekend meal, this casserole promises to become a beloved go-to that’s as satisfying as it is effortless. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever brunch without it!
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Deliciously Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes (plus chilling time overnight or at least 4 hours)
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Deliciously Easy Eggs Benedict Casserole is a perfect crowd-pleasing brunch classic, combining the flavors of English muffins, Canadian bacon, and a creamy egg custard baked to perfection. Topped with a rich homemade hollandaise sauce, this casserole delivers all the indulgence of traditional Eggs Benedict in a convenient, make-ahead dish ideal for entertaining or family breakfasts.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 6 English muffins, split and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 12 oz Canadian bacon, diced
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Hollandaise Sauce
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and warm
- Pinch of salt
- Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking, then scatter half of the English muffin pieces evenly across the bottom.
- Add Canadian bacon and muffins layers: Sprinkle half of the diced Canadian bacon evenly over the muffin pieces, then add the remaining English muffins on top, followed by the rest of the diced Canadian bacon, creating alternating layers.
- Mix and pour the egg custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole, pressing down gently with a spoon to ensure the bread soaks up the custard.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the covered casserole for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the eggs are completely set and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare hollandaise sauce: While the casserole bakes, blend the egg yolks and lemon juice on high speed for 30 seconds. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the warm melted butter until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and cayenne pepper if using.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm hollandaise sauce generously over the baked casserole. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- The casserole can be prepared the night before to save time on brunch day.
- If you prefer, swap Canadian bacon with ham or turkey for variation.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
- Hollandaise sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated to maintain texture.
- Adding a dash of cayenne pepper adds a subtle spicy kick to the hollandaise.
