There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven, especially when it’s loaded with all the classic breakfast flavors I crave. The first time I made this Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake was during a lazy Sunday morning, and I was dazzled by how effortlessly it combined everything I loved about brunch into one hearty dish. Picture this: the comforting aroma of rich eggs mingling with the salty punch of ham and the gooey goodness of cheddar, all nestled on toasted English muffins. It felt like a hug on a plate.
Perfect for meal prepping or serving a crowd, this casserole turns traditional Eggs Benedict into a fuss-free baked delight that’s sure to brighten any gathering. Plus, you’ll hardly believe how simple it is—just 15 minutes of prep and the oven does the rest. Whether you’re looking to wow guests or just treat yourself to a delightful breakfast, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake
- This Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for both busy mornings and leisurely brunches.
- The rich flavors of savory ham, creamy cheddar, and the delightful hollandaise sauce create a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will adore.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer adding vegetables or switching up the meats.
- With its beautiful golden top and elegant presentation, this casserole is sure to impress your guests and make any occasion feel special.
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Ingredients
A delightful medley of flavors awaits!
For the Base
- English muffins – Perfectly toasted, they provide a sturdy base for all the delicious layers.
- Large eggs – Essential for creating that creamy, rich texture that holds this casserole together.
For the Filling
- Whole milk – Adds creaminess and richness, making your casserole an indulgent treat.
- Diced ham – A savory addition that enhances the classic Eggs Benedict flavor profile.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully, offering gooey goodness and a deliciously sharp contrast to the other ingredients.
For the Sauce
- Hollandaise sauce mix – So easy to use; this adds that signature creamy topping that takes this dish over the top.
For Garnish
- Fresh herbs (chives or parsley) – Adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the overall presentation and flavor.
Dive into this Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake that blends all your breakfast favorites into one scrumptious dish!
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your casserole. While it’s warming up, grab your baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
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Arrange the halved English muffins in the greased 9×13 baking dish, cut side up. This will form the base and soak up all the delicious egg mixture as it bakes.
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Whisk together the large eggs and whole milk in a bowl until well-combined. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
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Pour half of the egg mixture over the arranged muffins, then layer it with diced ham and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients for a hearty build.
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Bake your creation in the oven for 30-35 minutes until it has puffed up and is beautifully golden brown on top, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
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Cool the casserole for a brief moment before serving to allow it to set. Top with warm hollandaise sauce and garnish with fresh herbs to bring everything together beautifully.
Optional: Serve with a side of extra hollandaise for those who love a creamy touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake?
Elevate your brunch experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement this comforting casserole.
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Crispy Hash Browns: Golden and crunchy, they add a delightful texture contrast while soaking up any extra hollandaise sauce.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits that balances the richness of the casserole, offering a burst of sweetness and color.
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Spinach Salad: Light and zesty, tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, this salad introduces bright flavors that cut through the richness and add a nutritious touch.
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Baby Potatoes: Roasted with garlic and herbs, these tender bites are perfect for soaking in all the delicious eggy goodness.
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Coffee or Mimosas: The perfect drink pairing, whether you prefer a strong brew to kickstart your morning or the refreshing bubbles of mimosas to toast a lovely gathering.
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Baked Tomatoes: Juicy, roasted tomatoes with a sprinkle of herbs add a pop of acidity, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Savory Scones: Flaky and buttery, they make for a wonderful addition that can be slathered in cream or enjoyed as is.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: A creamy dessert layered with granola and fresh berries, providing a sweet finish to your meal while adding a protein boost.
How to Store and Freeze Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake
Fridge: Keep your leftover Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain its creamy texture and delicious flavors.
Freezer: If you want to make it ahead, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy top, consider broiling for the last few minutes!
Serving: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick, hearty breakfast option on busy mornings. Enjoy the flavors just like the day it was made!
Make Ahead Options
This Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the steps until the baking point, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge for about 5-10 minutes longer to ensure it’s heated through. Doing this not only saves you time on busy mornings but also ensures that your casserole retains its delicious texture and flavors, making your meal just as delightful as if it were freshly made. Enjoy the ease and convenience of having a delicious breakfast ready to go!
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this delightful casserole your own with these tasty twists!
- Vegetarian: Substitute diced ham with sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vibrant, meat-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat and add a zesty flavor profile to your casserole.
- Creamy Spin: Swap out whole milk for half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer, creamier texture that’s oh-so-indulgent.
- Cheese Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack to create a unique flavor experience with every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance your eggs with fresh herbs such as dill or basil for an aromatic boost that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Sweet & Savory: Add sautéed caramelized onions or a sprinkle of sautéed apples for a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free English muffins to ensure everyone can enjoy this casserole without compromising flavor or texture.
- Breakfast Sausage: Replace the ham with cooked breakfast sausage for a hearty, satisfying twist on the classic flavors everyone loves.
Each variation not only enhances the dish but also allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary needs, making this casserole a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake, ensure your English muffins are slightly toasted to prevent them from becoming too soggy as they absorb the egg mixture.
- When whisking the eggs and milk, take care not to overbeat; achieving a smooth blend with just a few gentle strokes is enough for the best texture.
- Layer your ingredients evenly to ensure consistent flavors and baking throughout the casserole, preventing any pockets of dry or overly moist areas.
- Keep an eye on your casserole during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning, as each oven may vary slightly in heat distribution.
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best English muffins for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting English muffins, look for ones that are fresh and firm, with a slightly golden color. Avoid any that have dark spots or seem overly soft, as they may result in a soggy base. My go-to is to opt for whole grain or multigrain varieties for an extra nutritional boost!
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake?
To store your leftover casserole, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors again. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!
Can I freeze this casserole, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake, allow it to cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my casserole doesn’t seem to set properly?
If your casserole doesn’t set properly after baking, it might need more cooking time, so simply continue to bake it while checking every 5 minutes until it becomes puffed and golden on top. Also, ensure the egg and milk mixture was well combined beforehand, as lumps can affect the texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To make a gluten-free version of the Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake, look for gluten-free English muffins. Check your hollandaise sauce mix for any gluten-containing ingredients, or consider making your own sauce from scratch to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets, allergies, or intolerances?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious of the ham, cheddar cheese, and any ingredients that may contain gluten. Always check labels to ensure that there are no hidden allergens. If you have pets, it’s best to keep this dish away from them, particularly the cheese and sauces, as these can upset their stomachs.
These FAQs should guide you in enjoying and mastering your Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake!
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Arrange the halved English muffins in the greased baking dish, cut side up.
- Whisk together the eggs and whole milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the muffins, then layer with ham and cheddar cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Cool briefly before serving. Top with hollandaise sauce and garnish with herbs.
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