Warm & Familiar Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe
There’s something truly comforting about the rich flavors of Eggs Benedict, especially when transformed into a cozy casserole bake. I love how this dish effortlessly blends the crisp edges of toasted English muffins with tender Canadian bacon pockets and a velvety egg custard that’s packed with comforting warmth. It’s like brunch and dinner had the perfect recipe baby—easy, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate how this Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe takes all the classic elements of the beloved brunch staple but frees you from the delicate dance of poaching eggs or perfecting hollandaise on the stovetop. Plus, preparing this ahead means less fuss when guests arrive and more time to share stories over a warm plate.
You’ll notice as you bake it that gentle steam fills your kitchen with inviting aromas—signaling the melding of smoky bacon, savory seasonings, and that rich custard soaking into crisp-edged English muffin chunks. It’s a dish that feels like a hug on a plate, perfect for any day you want something special but straightforward.
Standout Details
- Comfort meets flavor: Cozy, rich, and balanced.
- Beginner-friendly: Clear steps built for real kitchens.
- Flexible: Easy swaps for ingredients you already have.
- Meal-prep happy: Stores well without losing texture.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1 pound Canadian bacon, diced: Provides smoky, meaty pockets that keep every bite savory and hearty. Swap with ham or cooked breakfast sausage if preferred.
- 6 English muffins, split and cut into 1-inch pieces: The backbone of the casserole with crisp edges and soft, airy insides that soak up egg custard beautifully. You could use sturdy bread like sourdough cubes as a substitute.
- 8 large eggs: The magic that binds, creating a tender, creamy custard to hold everything together.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds richness to the custard; you can try half-and-half or cream for even more velvety texture, or a plant-based milk for a twist.
- Seasonings (onion powder, salt, garlic powder, black pepper): Build layers of warmth and subtle aroma without overpowering the main ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm, smoky finish on top, giving color and a gentle kick.
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley: Bright, fresh garnish that cuts through the richness with a burst of green.
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce: The crowning glory—rich and buttery, it ties all the flavors together and makes every bite feel indulgent. Use store-bought for ease or homemade if you’re feeling fancy.
Before You Start
Before diving in, it really helps to prep all your ingredients—dice, slice, and measure everything out. Mise en place keeps things flowing smoothly when building this layered casserole. Don’t forget to coat your baking dish with non-stick spray, and plan ahead to refrigerate the dish for at least two hours—or even overnight—which lets the custard soak into the bread for a perfect custardy center with crispy bits around the edges.
Kitchen Setup
The tools that make Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe easier, faster, and cleaner—plus optional add-ons if you love efficiency.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe
- Prepare your baking dish: Coat a 9×13-inch dish with non-stick spray to ensure the casserole releases effortlessly and stays intact when serving.
- Layer the Canadian bacon: Spread half of the diced meat evenly across the bottom. This spreads smoky flavor and creates a savory foundation.
- Add half the English muffin pieces: Scatter them over the bacon. The bread will soak up the custard and crisp around the edges for lovely texture contrast.
- Repeat layers: Add the remaining Canadian bacon, then top with the rest of the English muffins. Layering like this balances meaty bites with tender bread throughout.
- Whisk eggs and seasonings: Combine eggs, whole milk, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and slightly frothy — this leads to a lighter custard texture you’ll adore.
- Pour custard over layers: Gently pour the egg mixture evenly across the casserole. You’ll see it soak into the bread, coating each chunk in buttery richness.
- Chill to set: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can. This rest is crucial—it hydrates the bread fully and builds that creamy yet tender bite we all crave.
Cook Like a Pro
Want the perfect bake? Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready at the right time. Baking uncovered allows the top to turn a beautiful golden shade with just a hint of crispness—watch for the edges to puff slightly and the center to set but stay tender.
- Remove plastic wrap & sprinkle paprika: This final sprinkle adds a touch of smoky color and gentle warmth to the top.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes: Keep an eye on the casserole so the eggs set fully and surface is golden without burning. You’ll know it’s done when the center feels firm but still moist underneath.
- Warm the hollandaise sauce: Whether jarred or homemade, heat it gently until just warm. This ensures it melts over the casserole perfectly without curdling.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole cool 5 minutes once out of the oven to settle the layers. Then drizzle with hollandaise and scatter fresh parsley for brightness.
Flavor Variations for Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe
- Swap Canadian bacon with smoked salmon: A sophisticated twist that brings a delicate, silky flavor and feels just as indulgent.
- Add sautéed spinach or asparagus tips: Sneak in fresh greens for seasonal brightness and a slight crunch contrast.
- Top with shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar: A melty cheese layer adds an irresistible richness and golden crust.
- For a spicy kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the egg custard or scatter sliced jalapeños before baking.
- Sweet & savory play: Drizzle a tiny bit of maple syrup into the hollandaise or add caramelized onions to the layers for a subtle sweetness.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread or English muffin substitutes to keep the texture without wheat.
Storage, Freezer & Reheat Tips
- Keep leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for 3–4 days. The custard flavor actually deepens overnight!
- Freeze individual portions wrapped well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through but still moist.
- Microwaving works in a pinch—heat in 30-second bursts—to preserve texture, but oven reheating is preferred.
- Freshen with a little warmed hollandaise or a sprinkle of fresh parsley after reheating to revive flavor and appearance.
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe FAQs
- Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead? Absolutely! In fact, refrigerating it overnight helps the flavors meld and gives the best custard texture.
- What if I don’t have Canadian bacon? Ham, cooked breakfast sausage, or even turkey bacon work beautifully as flavorful swaps.
- Can I make my own hollandaise sauce? Yes! A classic hollandaise uses egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice. It adds a lovely fresh richness if you have time to make it.
- Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? Simply substitute the English muffins with gluten-free bread cubes for a safe and delicious alternative.
- How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked? The top should be golden and puffed slightly, and the center should feel firm (not jiggly) when gently pressed.
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake Recipe
Eggs Benedict Casserole Bake is a delicious and convenient twist on the classic brunch favorite. Layers of Canadian bacon and English muffins are soaked in a savory egg and milk mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with warm hollandaise sauce and fresh parsley, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for a leisurely breakfast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Canadian bacon, diced
- 6 English muffins, split and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish & Sauce
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside to prevent sticking during baking.
- Layer Canadian Bacon and Muffins: Evenly distribute half of the diced Canadian bacon in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Scatter half of the English muffin pieces over the bacon. Repeat this layering with the remaining bacon and muffin pieces for an even structure.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful custard base.
- Combine Layers: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered Canadian bacon and English muffins in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are soaked well.
- Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best texture and flavor melding.
- Preheat Oven: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake Casserole: Remove the plastic wrap, sprinkle the paprika evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the eggs are completely set and the top turns golden brown.
- Prepare Sauce: Warm the hollandaise sauce according to package instructions or prepare homemade sauce, ensuring it is warm and smooth.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool briefly after baking, then drizzle the warm hollandaise sauce on top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, allow the casserole to soak overnight.
- Ensure the eggs are fully set before removing from the oven to avoid runny custard.
- Homemade hollandaise sauce adds a fresh touch but store-bought is a convenient alternative.
- This casserole can be made a day in advance and reheated gently before serving.
- Substitute whole milk with a milk alternative if desired, but it may change texture slightly.
