If you adore traditional Eggs Benedict but crave something more relaxed and perfect for feeding a crowd, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy, Crowd-Friendly Breakfast Classic Recipe. This dish takes all the beloved flavors of the classic—rich hollandaise, savory Canadian bacon, and fluffy eggs—and wraps them up into a comforting, sliceable casserole that’s perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions. It’s warm, inviting, and has that irresistible blend of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy notes that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Only a handful of simple, easy-to-find ingredients come together to create this masterpiece. Each component plays an important role in balancing flavor and texture—from the creamy eggs and melted cheddar to the toasty English muffins and that luscious hollandaise sauce that puts it all over the top.
- 12 large eggs: The protein-packed base that makes this casserole hearty and rich.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to create a custard-like texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild heat that rounds out the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a gentle tang to brighten the egg mixture.
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered: The foundation with a slight crunch and chew that soaks up all the custardy goodness.
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham: Adds a smoky, salty element essential to the classic Eggs Benedict flavor profile.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, adding richness and a sharp note.
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce: The luxurious finishing touch that ties the whole casserole together.
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish: Offers a fresh, colorful note to brighten each slice.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy, Crowd-Friendly Breakfast Classic Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and make it easy to serve once baked. This simple prep step sets you up for a smooth baking experience and perfectly golden results.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and Dijon mustard. Whisking until frothy is key—it incorporates air to give the casserole a light, fluffy texture instead of a dense omelette feel.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread the quartered English muffins evenly in the baking dish, then layer the Canadian bacon or ham on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, letting it soak into the muffins and meat. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the surface to melt into a deliciously cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil to keep the casserole moist and bake it for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and set. This two-stage baking ensures the eggs cook through without drying out the cheese or muffins.
Step 5: Finish with Hollandaise and Garnish
Let the casserole cool slightly so it firms up for cleaner slices. Drizzle the rich hollandaise sauce over the top, then scatter chopped chives or parsley for a refreshing burst of color and flavor. This finishing touch really elevates the dish into a breakfast showstopper.
How to Serve Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy, Crowd-Friendly Breakfast Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add a beautiful pop of green and a subtle oniony brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the dish. A light sprinkle of paprika or a few sliced avocado pieces can also add visual flair and a tiny flavor twist.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides to balance the richness. Consider a crisp mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette, roasted tomatoes, or even fresh fruit like berries and melon. These sides make the meal feel complete without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch, serve the casserole in mini muffin tins to create individual portions. Or, try layering the casserole in a clear glass dish to show off those beautiful strata layers, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this casserole for up to one month. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers, so you can enjoy this cozy breakfast classic anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the casserole a bit soggy. If using a microwave, do so in short bursts to keep texture intact.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Canadian bacon with regular ham?
Absolutely! Regular ham works just as well and offers a slightly different but still delicious flavor. You can also try turkey bacon or even smoked sausage if you prefer.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the Canadian bacon and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes in its place for a tasty vegetarian version that keeps all the comforting elements intact.
What’s the best way to make hollandaise sauce for the casserole?
While store-bought hollandaise works fine, making a fresh sauce from scratch with egg yolks, lemon juice, and butter will really elevate the dish. Whisk constantly over gentle heat until smooth and creamy.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since the casserole will be cold.
Does this casserole freeze well after baking?
Yes, it does. Freeze fully cooled and wrapped well, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes for an easy brunch option anytime.
Final Thoughts
This Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy, Crowd-Friendly Breakfast Classic Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to brunch ideas. It’s reliably delicious, feeds a crowd with ease, and feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t recommend trying it enough—once you do, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain eggs again!
Print
Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Cozy, Crowd-Friendly Breakfast Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Eggs Benedict Casserole transforms the classic breakfast favorite into a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for family gatherings or brunch parties. This baked casserole layers English muffins, savory Canadian bacon, and cheddar cheese with a rich, seasoned egg mixture, finished with a drizzle of creamy hollandaise sauce and fresh herbs for a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 12 large eggs
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces English muffins, quartered
- 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together 12 large eggs, 3 cups whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until the mixture is fully blended and frothy, ensuring a light and fluffy texture in the casserole.
- Layer it up: Arrange the quartered English muffins evenly in the greased baking dish. Top with slices or pieces of Canadian bacon or ham, then pour the prepared egg mixture over the layers, making sure it covers everything. Finally, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake to perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle.
- Finish with flair: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. Drizzle 1 cup of hollandaise sauce over each portion to mimic the classic Eggs Benedict flavor, then garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
Notes
- Using day-old English muffins adds better texture and prevents sogginess.
- Can substitute Canadian bacon with regular ham if preferred.
- Make hollandaise sauce from scratch or use store-bought for convenience.
- Prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate; bake longer if baking from cold.
- Adjust cayenne and black pepper to taste for preferred spice level.
- Garnish adds a fresh touch but is optional.
