Elevate Your Brunch Game: What is Eggs Benedict Casserole and How to Make It
Eggs Benedict casserole is a delectable breakfast or brunch dish that combines the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict with the convenience of a casserole. This dish features layers of toasted English muffins, creamy hollandaise sauce, poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and a sprinkling of chives. The result is a rich, savory, and indulgent meal that is perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings.
Ingredients for Eggs Benedict Casserole:
- 12 English muffins, split and toasted
- 1 pound Canadian bacon, cooked and sliced
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
Instructions for Making Eggs Benedict Casserole:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Assemble Layers: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the toasted English muffins. Top with half of the Canadian bacon.
3. Poach Eggs: In a large skillet, poach the eggs until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
4. Make Hollandaise Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the flour, butter, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Pour Hollandaise Sauce: Pour half of the hollandaise sauce over the Canadian bacon.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat steps 2-5 with the remaining English muffins, Canadian bacon, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Variations on Eggs Benedict Casserole:
- Spinach and Mushroom: Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms to the casserole for a more savory flavor.
- Crab or Lobster: Use crab or lobster meat instead of Canadian bacon for a seafood twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free English muffins to make the casserole gluten-free.
- Vegetarian: Omit the Canadian bacon and use sautéed vegetables or tofu instead.
Tips for Perfect Eggs Benedict Casserole:
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the casserole.
- Poach eggs perfectly: Poaching eggs can be tricky, but using a poaching pan or vortex method will help you achieve perfectly poached eggs.
- Make the hollandaise sauce ahead of time: Hollandaise sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply reheat it over low heat before assembling the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole right before baking: To prevent the English muffins from becoming soggy, assemble the casserole just before baking.
What to Serve with Eggs Benedict Casserole:
- Fruit Salad: Serve the casserole with a fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing side.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns are a classic accompaniment to Eggs Benedict casserole.
- Mimosas: A glass of mimosa is the perfect complement to this brunch dish.
Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Versatile and Delicious Brunch Option
Eggs Benedict casserole is a versatile and delicious brunch option that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you enjoy the classic flavors or prefer to experiment with variations, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make Eggs Benedict casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it before serving.
Q: How do I reheat Eggs Benedict casserole?
A: Reheat the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Eggs Benedict casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.