Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole: An Incredible Make-Ahead Breakfast Delight

Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is an amazing way to start your day. This delightful dish combines all the rich flavors of traditional eggs benedict into a convenient and easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for special occasions or busy mornings, this casserole transforms a classic breakfast favorite into a make-ahead masterpiece. It’s both satisfying and flavorful, giving you that restaurant-quality taste right in your own home.
Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of baked eggs, savory ham, and a creamy hollandaise sauce wafting through your kitchen. This recipe not only saves you time in the morning but also allows you to enjoy the pleasure of breakfast without the fuss of individual plating. You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven when you wake up. This makes it ideal for brunch parties, holiday breakfasts, or even just a cozy weekend treat.
In this article, you will discover why Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is the perfect dish for your breakfast table. We will delve into the details of preparation, cooking time, and the simple ingredients you’ll need. Follow along as we guide you with step-by-step instructions to create this incredible breakfast dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a feast that’s as delightful as it is easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is not just another breakfast option; it’s something special that brings together an enticing mix of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore this recipe:
1. Effortless Preparation: Prepare everything the night before, making your morning routine a breeze.
2. Rich and Savory Flavor: Each bite is filled with the traditional flavors of eggs benedict, including perfectly poached eggs, savory ham, and delicate hollandaise.
3. Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite proteins or vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or smoked salmon.
4. Impressive Presentation: The creamy texture and bright colors create a beautiful dish that looks just as good as it tastes.
5. Feeds a Crowd: This casserole serves a large number of people, making it perfect for family gatherings or brunch parties.
6. Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the comforting flavors, giving you more peace of mind during breakfast time.
With all these advantages, it’s easy to see why Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is the perfect addition to your morning meal rotation!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is simple and straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes (make it the night before)
– Cooking Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
The overnight aspect of this dish means the bulk of the work happens before you even begin cooking. This makes it incredibly convenient for busy mornings when you want to serve something hearty without the hassle.

Ingredients

– 1 loaf of French bread (about 12 cups, cubed)
– 8 large eggs
– 2 ½ cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– 8 ounces Canadian bacon or ham (diced)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup hollandaise sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh chives or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a fun and straightforward process. Just follow these easy steps:
1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the French bread into small cubes and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add the Meat: Sprinkle the cubed Canadian bacon or diced ham evenly over the bread cubes.
3. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and meat, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
6. Cover and Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up the flavors.
7. Preheat Oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake the Casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover it. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
9. Add Hollandaise Sauce: Drizzle your prepared hollandaise sauce over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired, then serve warm.

How to Serve

Serving Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole can enhance the dining experience. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
1. Family-Style Serving: Slice the casserole into squares and serve it straight from the baking dish for a relaxed atmosphere.
2. Accompaniments: Pair it with fresh fruit, breakfast potatoes, or a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
3. Beverage Pairing: Offer mimosas, coffee, or herbal tea to complement the flavors and enhance the brunch vibe.
4. Personal Touch: Allow guests to top their servings with extra hollandaise sauce or fresh herbs for added customization.
By putting a little thought into your presentation and serving style, you create a memorable breakfast experience for yourself and your guests. Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast repertoire, delivering an incredible taste and convenience!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, use fresh eggs and dairy products. This enhances the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
– Customize the Flavor: Add your favorite herbs and spices to kick up the flavor. Consider fresh dill or tarragon for a new twist.
– Serve Immediately: Leftovers can be enjoyed, but this casserole is best served freshly baked to enjoy its creaminess.

Recipe Variation

You can easily adapt the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute Canadian bacon with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
2. Smoked Salmon: Replace the ham with smoked salmon and add capers for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or feta, for unique flavor profiles.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It stays good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Special Equipment

To make the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole, gather the following tools:
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Plastic wrap for covering
– Oven-safe spatula or serving spoon for serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the casserole without overnight soaking?

While it’s ideal to soak the bread overnight, you can prepare it in the morning and bake it immediately. Just allow for extra cooking time to ensure the egg mixture is fully set.

Can I use whole grain bread instead of French bread?

Absolutely! Whole grain bread can add additional flavor and texture. Just be sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the casserole’s filling.

How can I tell when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole should be golden brown on top and puffed up. A toothpick or knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Is there a dairy-free option for this casserole?

Yes, you can use dairy-free substitutes, such as almond milk and coconut cream. Ensure that your cheese is also dairy-free if you’re avoiding all dairy products.

Can I make this casserole ahead for a larger gathering?

Definitely! The casserole not only serves many but can also be made the night before. Just follow the preparation and cooking instructions for a large brunch event.

Conclusion

Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s an experience that combines convenience with classic flavor. From special occasions to casual weekends, this make-ahead breakfast delight is sure to impress. With versatile ingredients and easy preparation, you can customize it according to personal tastes. Make this dish your go-to for any breakfast gathering, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Print