Name: Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe
Ingredients: Butter or Cooking Spray, for greasing the baking dish: This seemingly simple step is vital for preventing your casserole from sticking to the bottom of the baking dish. Butter adds a touch of richness and flavor, subtly enhancing the overall taste, while cooking spray offers a lighter, calorie-conscious alternative. Choose whichever you prefer based on your dietary needs and flavor preferences. For a truly indulgent experience, opt for butter – its subtle nutty notes complement the other ingredients beautifully. If you are using cooking spray, ensure it’s a high-quality, non-stick variety to guarantee easy removal of the casserole after baking. Don’t underestimate this step – a well-greased dish is the foundation for a perfectly presented casserole.; 14 to 16 Canadian Bacon Slices: Canadian bacon, with its lean profile and delicate smoky-sweet flavor, is the traditional meat component of Eggs Benedict and works exceptionally well in this casserole. Its round shape and slightly salty taste provide a delightful counterpoint to the creamy custard and rich hollandaise. When selecting Canadian bacon, look for slices that are uniformly thick and have a good color. Pre-cooked Canadian bacon is ideal for this recipe as it eliminates the need for pre-cooking and allows for a quicker assembly. If you can’t find Canadian bacon, you could consider using ham slices as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers could be used in place of the Canadian bacon, though this would significantly alter the dish and move it away from the traditional Eggs Benedict flavor. However, for the authentic Eggs Benedict Casserole experience, Canadian bacon is highly recommended.; 6 to 8 English Muffins, Split: English muffins are the quintessential base for Eggs Benedict, and they provide the perfect textural contrast in this casserole. Their nooks and crannies soak up the savory custard beautifully, creating a delightful soft interior while the tops bake to a golden-brown crispness. When choosing English muffins, opt for good quality ones that are sturdy enough to hold their shape in the casserole. Pre-splitting them ensures that the custard can penetrate evenly. You can use regular or sourdough English muffins depending on your preference. Sourdough will add a tangier note to the casserole. For a slightly different texture, you could also use brioche buns or even croissants, though these will be richer and less traditional. If you are looking to reduce carbohydrates, consider using whole wheat English muffins for a slightly healthier option. The key is to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold up to the custard and provides a pleasant chewiness in the final dish.; 8 Eggs: Eggs are the star of the custard mixture and the binding agent that holds the casserole together. They provide richness, protein, and that signature eggy flavor that is central to Eggs Benedict. Use large eggs for this recipe to ensure the correct ratio of egg to milk. Fresh, high-quality eggs will always yield the best results. Consider using pasture-raised or organic eggs for a richer flavor and deeper yellow yolks. The eggs are whisked with milk and seasonings to create a pourable custard that infuses the English muffins and Canadian bacon with flavor and texture.; 2 Cups Milk: Milk forms the liquid base of the custard, adding moisture and creaminess to the casserole. Whole milk will provide the richest and most decadent flavor, but you can also use 2% milk for a slightly lighter version. For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used as substitutes. Keep in mind that plant-based milks may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the custard. Soy milk might be the closest in texture to cow’s milk, while almond milk might result in a slightly thinner custard. Oat milk can add a subtle sweetness. Experiment to find the milk alternative that best suits your taste.; 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle savory depth to the custard, enhancing the overall flavor profile without being overpowering. It provides a background note of umami that complements the other seasonings. If you prefer fresh garlic, you could substitute with 1-2 cloves of minced garlic, sautéed lightly in butter before adding to the egg mixture. However, garlic powder is convenient and provides a consistent flavor throughout the casserole.; 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder contributes another layer of savory flavor to the custard. It works in harmony with the garlic powder to create a well-rounded and aromatic base. Again, fresh minced onion, sautéed until softened, could be used as a substitute, but onion powder offers ease and consistent flavor distribution.; 1 Teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients and balancing the richness of the eggs and milk. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results. Adjust the amount of salt to your personal preference, but be sure to include it as it plays a vital role in bringing out the best in the casserole.; ½ Teaspoon Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the custard. Its pungent notes provide a pleasant contrast to the richness of the eggs and the saltiness of the Canadian bacon. Pre-ground black pepper can be used, but freshly ground pepper offers a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor.; ¼ Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika, with its slightly sweet and smoky flavor, adds a subtle warmth and color to the custard. It complements the other spices and contributes to the overall depth of flavor. Smoked paprika can be used for a more pronounced smoky note, while sweet paprika will provide a milder, sweeter flavor.; ⅛ Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: A whisper of ground nutmeg adds a touch of warmth and subtle sweetness that elevates the custard to another level. Nutmeg is a classic spice that pairs beautifully with eggs and dairy, and just a tiny amount is enough to make a noticeable difference. Freshly grated nutmeg is even better, but ground nutmeg works perfectly well for this recipe. Be careful not to use too much nutmeg, as it can become overpowering. A light hand is key.; Hollandaise Sauce: No Eggs Benedict, and certainly no Eggs Benedict Casserole, is complete without a generous drizzle of Hollandaise sauce. This rich and buttery emulsion of egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice is the crowning glory of the dish. You can use store-bought Hollandaise sauce for convenience, but homemade Hollandaise is truly worth the effort and elevates the casserole to gourmet status. There are many recipes for Hollandaise sauce available online, ranging from classic stovetop methods to easier blender or immersion blender versions. Consider making your Hollandaise fresh right before serving for the best flavor and texture. Variations on Hollandaise, such as Béarnaise (with tarragon and shallots) or Choron sauce (with tomato purée), could also be used for a twist on the classic flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Butter or Cooking Spray, for greasing the baking dish: This seemingly simple step is vital for preventing your casserole from sticking to the bottom of the baking dish. Butter adds a touch of richness and flavor, subtly enhancing the overall taste, while cooking spray offers a lighter, calorie-conscious alternative. Choose whichever you prefer based on your dietary needs and flavor preferences. For a truly indulgent experience, opt for butter – its subtle nutty notes complement the other ingredients beautifully. If you are using cooking spray, ensure it’s a high-quality, non-stick variety to guarantee easy removal of the casserole after baking. Don’t underestimate this step – a well-greased dish is the foundation for a perfectly presented casserole.

14 to 16 Canadian Bacon Slices: Canadian bacon, with its lean profile and delicate smoky-sweet flavor, is the traditional meat component of Eggs Benedict and works exceptionally well in this casserole. Its round shape and slightly salty taste provide a delightful counterpoint to the creamy custard and rich hollandaise. When selecting Canadian bacon, look for slices that are uniformly thick and have a good color. Pre-cooked Canadian bacon is ideal for this recipe as it eliminates the need for pre-cooking and allows for a quicker assembly. If you can’t find Canadian bacon, you could consider using ham slices as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers could be used in place of the Canadian bacon, though this would significantly alter the dish and move it away from the traditional Eggs Benedict flavor. However, for the authentic Eggs Benedict Casserole experience, Canadian bacon is highly recommended.

6 to 8 English Muffins, Split: English muffins are the quintessential base for Eggs Benedict, and they provide the perfect textural contrast in this casserole. Their nooks and crannies soak up the savory custard beautifully, creating a delightful soft interior while the tops bake to a golden-brown crispness. When choosing English muffins, opt for good quality ones that are sturdy enough to hold their shape in the casserole. Pre-splitting them ensures that the custard can penetrate evenly. You can use regular or sourdough English muffins depending on your preference. Sourdough will add a tangier note to the casserole. For a slightly different texture, you could also use brioche buns or even croissants, though these will be richer and less traditional. If you are looking to reduce carbohydrates, consider using whole wheat English muffins for a slightly healthier option. The key is to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold up to the custard and provides a pleasant chewiness in the final dish.

8 Eggs: Eggs are the star of the custard mixture and the binding agent that holds the casserole together. They provide richness, protein, and that signature eggy flavor that is central to Eggs Benedict. Use large eggs for this recipe to ensure the correct ratio of egg to milk. Fresh, high-quality eggs will always yield the best results. Consider using pasture-raised or organic eggs for a richer flavor and deeper yellow yolks. The eggs are whisked with milk and seasonings to create a pourable custard that infuses the English muffins and Canadian bacon with flavor and texture.

2 Cups Milk: Milk forms the liquid base of the custard, adding moisture and creaminess to the casserole. Whole milk will provide the richest and most decadent flavor, but you can also use 2% milk for a slightly lighter version. For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used as substitutes. Keep in mind that plant-based milks may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the custard. Soy milk might be the closest in texture to cow’s milk, while almond milk might result in a slightly thinner custard. Oat milk can add a subtle sweetness. Experiment to find the milk alternative that best suits your taste.

1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle savory depth to the custard, enhancing the overall flavor profile without being overpowering. It provides a background note of umami that complements the other seasonings. If you prefer fresh garlic, you could substitute with 1-2 cloves of minced garlic, sautéed lightly in butter before adding to the egg mixture. However, garlic powder is convenient and provides a consistent flavor throughout the casserole.

1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder contributes another layer of savory flavor to the custard. It works in harmony with the garlic powder to create a well-rounded and aromatic base. Again, fresh minced onion, sautéed until softened, could be used as a substitute, but onion powder offers ease and consistent flavor distribution.

1 Teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients and balancing the richness of the eggs and milk. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results. Adjust the amount of salt to your personal preference, but be sure to include it as it plays a vital role in bringing out the best in the casserole.

½ Teaspoon Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the custard. Its pungent notes provide a pleasant contrast to the richness of the eggs and the saltiness of the Canadian bacon. Pre-ground black pepper can be used, but freshly ground pepper offers a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor.

¼ Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika, with its slightly sweet and smoky flavor, adds a subtle warmth and color to the custard. It complements the other spices and contributes to the overall depth of flavor. Smoked paprika can be used for a more pronounced smoky note, while sweet paprika will provide a milder, sweeter flavor.

⅛ Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: A whisper of ground nutmeg adds a touch of warmth and subtle sweetness that elevates the custard to another level. Nutmeg is a classic spice that pairs beautifully with eggs and dairy, and just a tiny amount is enough to make a noticeable difference. Freshly grated nutmeg is even better, but ground nutmeg works perfectly well for this recipe. Be careful not to use too much nutmeg, as it can become overpowering. A light hand is key.

Hollandaise Sauce: No Eggs Benedict, and certainly no Eggs Benedict Casserole, is complete without a generous drizzle of Hollandaise sauce. This rich and buttery emulsion of egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice is the crowning glory of the dish. You can use store-bought Hollandaise sauce for convenience, but homemade Hollandaise is truly worth the effort and elevates the casserole to gourmet status. There are many recipes for Hollandaise sauce available online, ranging from classic stovetop methods to easier blender or immersion blender versions. Consider making your Hollandaise fresh right before serving for the best flavor and texture. Variations on Hollandaise, such as Béarnaise (with tarragon and shallots) or Choron sauce (with tomato purée), could also be used for a twist on the classic flavor.

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Instructions

Grease a 9×13 Baking Dish: Begin by thoroughly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the casserole after baking. Use butter for a richer flavor or cooking spray for a lighter option. Make sure to grease the bottom and sides of the dish evenly. You can even dust the greased dish with a little flour for extra insurance against sticking, although this is usually not necessary with a good non-stick spray or thorough buttering.

Arrange English Muffins in Baking Dish: Split the English muffins and arrange them in the greased baking dish, cut sides up. Slightly overlap the muffins to maximize space and create a cohesive base for the casserole. They should fit snugly in the dish, creating a single layer. This layer of English muffins will form the foundation of your casserole and absorb the delicious custard.

Place Canadian Bacon Between English Muffins: Now, tuck a slice of Canadian bacon in between each English muffin. This ensures that every bite of the casserole includes both the savory meat and the bread base. The Canadian bacon should be nestled between the muffins, not just placed on top, to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole. If you have extra slices of Canadian bacon, you can arrange some on top of the muffins as well for a more visually appealing presentation.

Whisk Egg Mixture: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. Avoid over-whisking, which can incorporate too much air and result in a less tender custard. Just whisk until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. This custard mixture is the heart of the casserole, infusing the English muffins and Canadian bacon with flavor and moisture.

Pour Egg Mixture Over English Muffins: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the English muffins in the baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to gently press down on the English muffins so that they are mostly covered with the egg mixture. It’s perfectly fine if the tops of the muffins are still slightly visible; they don’t need to be completely submerged. The key is to ensure that the custard seeps into the nooks and crannies of the muffins, soaking them thoroughly. This step is important for creating the signature texture of the casserole.

Refrigerate Overnight (or at least 4 hours): Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This refrigeration period is crucial. It allows the English muffins to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a moist and flavorful casserole. It also allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. This make-ahead aspect is one of the greatest advantages of this recipe, making it perfect for brunch gatherings as you can prepare it the day before.

Preheat Oven to 375°F: When you are ready to bake the casserole, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.

Bake Covered for 30 Minutes: Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole dish and recover it with just the aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, covered. Baking covered initially helps to steam the casserole and ensures that the English muffins and custard cook through without the tops becoming overly browned too quickly.

Bake Uncovered for 25-30 Minutes More: After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and continue to bake for another 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the tops of the English muffins are lightly browned and golden. The casserole is set when the custard is no longer jiggly in the center and a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.

Let Stand for 10 Minutes: Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set further and makes it easier to slice and serve. It also helps to prevent the casserole from being too watery.

Serve with Hollandaise Sauce: Serve the Eggs Benedict Casserole warm, generously drizzled with Hollandaise sauce. For the best experience, prepare your Hollandaise sauce fresh right before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness, if desired. Slice into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade Eggs Benedict Casserole!

Nutrition

Serving Size: One Normal Portion
Calories: 350-450