Introduction to Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
As a busy mom, I completely understand the morning rush. Breakfast sometimes feels like a ticking clock, but I have a delightful solution! Let me introduce you to my Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole. Imagine waking up to the aroma of savory layers of fluffy eggs, smoky ham, and gooey cheese, all waiting for you—all without the fuss! This dish embraces the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict while letting you savor your mornings. Plus, preparation is as easy as pie. You’ll love how a bit of planning transforms your breakfast into a stress-free family celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a true breakfast game-changer! It effortlessly combines the beloved tastes of a classic brunch dish while cutting down prep time. You can whip up this hearty meal ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy your morning with the family. Plus, with its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table, making breakfast an occasion to look forward to!
Ingredients for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients for my Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is part of the fun! Each component adds a layer of flavor that brings the dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
- English muffins: These serve as the delightful base, providing that classic texture. Cutting them into cubes allows them to absorb all the yummy custard.
- Canadian bacon or smoked ham: You can use either for a savory hit. Feel free to swap it out for turkey bacon or omit the meat for a vegetarian version!
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: This cheese adds a tangy twist. You can substitute with Gouda or Monterey Jack if you prefer.
- Half and half or heavy cream: This gives the custard its rich consistency. If you want to lighten things up, you can use a milk alternative.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding everything together, ensuring every bite is creamy and delightful.
- Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: These are basic yet crucial for enhancing flavor. Don’t skip ’em!
- Ground mustard powder, granulated garlic, onion powder, dried thyme, and nutmeg: Each adds a pinch of personality. They come together to create a comforting warmth that wraps around each bite.
- Unsalted butter: To dot on top before baking, adding richness and a golden finish.
- Paprika: For a pop of color and a subtle kick.
- Hollandaise sauce: Essential for that traditional touch! Use my Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce or a quick mix if you’re short on time.
- Fresh chives or flat-leaf parsley: These are perfect for garnish, adding a fresh herbaceous note that brightens up the dish.
Check the bottom of the article for precise measurements. They’re there for when you’re ready to whip up this casserole in your kitchen! Enjoy the journey of creating this wonderful dish!
How to Make Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by drying out your English muffins. This step is crucial! It helps them soak up all that delicious custard. Spread the muffin cubes on a baking sheet and let them sit overnight. If you’re in a hurry, a quick toast under the broiler will work wonders too.
Next, gather your ingredients. You’ll layer the muffin cubes, ham, and cheese for the best flavor. Arrange half of each in a greased baking dish—this creates a lovely harmony of textures. Nothing beats perfectly layered casseroles for an eye-catching presentation!
Combine the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, crack those eggs and whisk them vigorously! Add the half and half, salt, pepper, mustard powder, granulated garlic, onion powder, thyme, and nutmeg. This is where the magic happens!
Ensure your custard is smooth and creamy—not too thick but thick enough to embrace every ingredient. Whisking well is key to achieving that velvety texture that will turn this casserole into a breakfast superstar.
Assemble the Casserole
Now, it’s assembly time! Start with a layer of English muffins at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Follow it with half of the cubed ham and a generous layer of cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers, making sure to finish with cheese on top. Pour the egg custard evenly over the layered ingredients. Use the back of a spoon to gently press down. This helps every bit soak up that luscious mixture. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 175°C, or 350°F if you prefer Fahrenheit! Take the casserole from the fridge 15 minutes before baking to come to room temperature. Dot the top with cubed butter for a rich finish.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown. The casserole is ready when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The anticipation is part of the fun!
Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce
While the casserole is baking, it’s time to prepare the hollandaise sauce. You can opt for my Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce for a quick fusion of flavors, or simply follow the package directions if using a mix.
This sauce is the pièce de resistance, adding richness to your dish. Don’t shy away from the homemade route; it truly elevates the entire casserole experience. Just remember to taste and adjust for that perfect balance!
Serve the Dish
Once the casserole has baked, let it rest for about five minutes. This helps it set and makes slicing easier. Drizzle generously with hollandaise sauce, and sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Serve it warm, and don’t forget extra sauce on the side. This dish looks stunning on the table, making your family feel special. Enjoy every bite and the delightful smiles that come with it!
Tips for Success with Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Make sure to dry out the English muffins to ensure they absorb the custard beautifully.
- If time allows, let the casserole soak overnight for deeper flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor twists!
- Allow the casserole to cool briefly before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Garnish generously with fresh herbs for a pop of color and taste.
Equipment Needed for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or any similar size oven-safe dish).
- Baking sheet for drying out the muffins (a tray also works).
- Mixing bowls for whisking the egg mixture.
- Whisk (a fork can be a great alternative).
- Plastic wrap to cover the casserole overnight.
Variations of Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap Canadian bacon for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a fresh vegetable twist.
- Cheesy Twist: Incorporate a blend of cheeses like feta, Gruyère, or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your casserole a little bit of heat!
- Holiday Special: Add leftover turkey or holiday ham for a festive version that uses up holiday leftovers deliciously.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute English muffins with gluten-free bread or bake your casserole with quinoa for a hearty base.
Serving Suggestions for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Pair with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside crispy hash browns or home fries for added crunch.
- Complement with freshly squeezed orange juice or a light mimosa.
- Presentation tip: Serve on a beautiful platter for a stunning brunch display.
FAQs about Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Can I prepare Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole in advance? Yes! In fact, this dish is designed to be made ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
What can I use instead of Canadian bacon? Feel free to swap Canadian bacon with smoked ham, turkey bacon, or even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. The flavors will still shine!
How do I store leftovers? Any leftover casserole can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying again!
Can I freeze the casserole? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking for optimal results.
What sides pair well with this casserole? Fresh fruit salad, crispy hash browns, or a light salad with a tangy dressing complement this dish beautifully and make your breakfast feel complete!
Final Thoughts
Cooking my Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole has become one of my favorite morning rituals. There’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing a dish that delivers warmth and comfort to my family. The way the layers meld together in the oven creates a taste sensation that brings smiles to our breakfast table. I cherish the moments we share over this delightful meal, stress-free and full of laughter. I hope this recipe lights up your mornings as it has mine, making breakfast a joyous occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create wonderful memories together, one slice at a time!
Print
Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Total Time: Overnight + 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make overnight casserole that combines the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict with minimal morning fuss.
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
- Feel free to substitute Canadian bacon with your choice of protein.
- This casserole can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat.
- Ensure to allow the casserole to rest before serving for better slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
