Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Introduction to Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Picture this—it’s a sleepy Sunday morning, and everyone’s gathered around the table, excited for brunch. You’ve just pulled out an Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole that’s been resting in the fridge, ready to wow your loved ones. This dish is not just delicious; it’s a lifesaver for busy mornings! With a delightful mix of creamy goodness, savory ham, and cheesy yumminess, this casserole offers a quick solution for a hectic day. Plus, it’s a sure-fire way to impress family and friends! Let’s dive into making memories with this easy, make-ahead breakfast delight.

Why You’ll Love This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a game-changer in the kitchen! First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just mix, layer, and refrigerate. No last-minute scrambling (pun intended) to whip up breakfast! With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it tastes like a gourmet brunch, minus the wait. This dish gives you the chance to savor those family moments while serving up smiles, leaving everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Let’s gather the star players for our Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:

• English muffins – These golden delights soak up the custard beautifully, providing a soft base for our dish.
• Canadian bacon or smoked ham – Savory and satisfying, they add that classic Eggs Benedict flavor. Feel free to swap for sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian twist!
• Sharp white cheddar cheese – This gives a tasty, tangy kick and melts into gooey perfection. You can also play around with different cheeses for variety!
• Half and half or heavy cream – Creaminess is key! Half and half makes it rich without being too heavy, while heavy cream adds luxurious flavor.
• Large eggs – The creamy custard base that holds everything together in an egg-cellent embrace.
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essentials for elevating flavor and enhancing that savory taste.
• Ground mustard powder – It packs a punch of flavor and ties the dish together, bringing that classic taste to your casserole.
• Granulated garlic and onion powder – These seasonings add depth and warmth, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Dried thyme – A touch of herbal freshness that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Ground nutmeg – Just a whisper of nutmeg brings everything to life, adding a layer of warmth and comfort.
• Unsalted butter – For topping, this adds richness and a golden finish to your casserole.
• Paprika – A sprinkle on top for that perfect dash of color and a hint of spice.
• Hollandaise sauce – Drizzling this creamy sauce over the baked casserole takes it to the next level. You can whip it up in a blender or use a mix for convenience.
• Fresh chives or flat-leaf parsley – A garnish that not only brightens up the dish but adds a fresh crunch.

For exact measurements for all these delicious ingredients, scroll down to the bottom of the article where you can easily print the recipe. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Time to get our hands a little messy and whip up this scrumptious Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole! Each step is simple, leading to a dish that’ll have your family singing your praises. Ready? Let’s get started.

Prepare the English Muffins

First, we need to ensure our English muffin cubes are nice and dry. Spread them out on a baking sheet to dry overnight. This ensures they can soak up the custard perfectly! If you’re short on time, a quick toast under the grill works just as well. Just don’t let them get too brown—aim for a light crispness.

Layer the Casserole

Start with a greased 32 × 20 cm baking dish. Lay down half of the dried and toasted English muffin cubes as the base. Next, pile on half of the cubed Canadian bacon or smoked ham, spreading it evenly. Top that with half of your shredded sharp white cheddar cheese. You’re setting the stage for layers of delightful flavor!

Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the half and half and eggs until completely blended. Add in the fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, ground mustard powder, granulated garlic, onion powder, dried thyme, and ground nutmeg. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. You want to ensure every bite is as flavorful as the next!

Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time for the grand assembly! Pour the luscious custard mixture over your layered ingredients, making sure it coats everything evenly. Gently press down on the muffin cubes with the back of a spoon. This helps them absorb all that creamy goodness. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for the night. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Bake the Casserole

The next morning, preheat your oven to 175°C. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit for around 15 minutes at room temperature. This helps it bake evenly. Dot the top with cubed unsalted butter and sprinkle with paprika, adding a lovely color. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the surface is golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce

While your casserole is baking, it’s the perfect time to whip up the hollandaise sauce. You can choose to make it from scratch in a blender or use a handy mix. Either way, the creamy drizzle will enhance your casserole to gourmet status. Follow your chosen method’s instructions, and be ready to drizzle that goodness!

Serve and Enjoy

Let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking—this helps it settle. Drizzle generously with the warm hollandaise sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives or flat-leaf parsley for that finishing touch. When it’s finally time to dig in, serve with extra hollandaise sauce on the side because why not? Enjoy every last bite of this comforting dish with your loved ones!

Tips for Success

• Dry the English muffins thoroughly to avoid a soggy casserole.
• For extra depth of flavor, add sautéed onions or roasted red peppers.
• Use a mix of cheeses for a unique twist; gouda or pepper jack works beautifully!
• Cover the casserole with foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste—don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt or pepper!

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish – A 32 × 20 cm dish is ideal; a similar-sized casserole dish will work too.
• Whisk – For mixing the custard; a fork can do the job if you’re in a pinch.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accuracy; an eyeball method works for seasoned pros!
• Sharp knife – Perfect for cutting ingredients; a pair of kitchen scissors can work wonders, too.
• Baking sheet – For drying English muffins; any flat tray will suffice.

Variations of Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap Canadian bacon for sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for a hearty vegetarian option that still delivers on flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses! Try gouda, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free English muffins or bread to ensure everyone can indulge in this crowd-pleaser.
• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the custard for a spicy version that’ll wake up your taste buds!
• All the Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition and a colorful presentation.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil, dill, or parsley can be mixed into the custard for an aromatic enhancement.

Serving Suggestions for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

• Pair with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance to the richness.
• Serve alongside crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
• A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast.
• Complement with mimosas or a cozy cup of coffee for the perfect brunch vibe.
• Garnish with additional herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flair!

FAQs about Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Can I prepare the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole the same day I want to serve it?

While I recommend letting it sit overnight, if you’re in a pinch, you can prepare it and let it rest for at least 2–3 hours in the fridge. It won’t be quite as flavorful, but it will still be delicious!

Can I freeze the casserole after baking?

Yes! If you have leftovers, you can freeze the baked casserole. Just make sure it cools completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with my Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or crispy hash browns. Also, consider serving it with mimosas for a delightful brunch experience!

Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the English muffins with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower bread or zucchini slices. Just adjust the baking time accordingly!

How do I reheat the casserole for leftovers?

To reheat, simply slice the casserole and place it back in a preheated oven set at 175°C. Cover it with foil to keep it moist and bake for about 15–20 minutes, until heated through!

Final Thoughts

Creating the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole has become one of my cherished kitchen experiences. The joy of waking up to a scrumptious dish that’s ready to serve is simply unbeatable! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness. Each layer tells a story, from the creamy custard to the crispy toppings. As you gather around the table with your loved ones, every bite evokes warmth and gratitude. This recipe embodies the magic of good food and shared moments, reminding us that even on our busiest days, we can enjoy the simple pleasure of a delightful meal.

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