Introduction
Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delicious and convenient twist on the classic Eggs Benedict. This recipe combines the indulgent flavors of eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce into a make-ahead casserole that’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or a special occasion. The best part? You prepare it the night before, and in the morning, you simply bake it, making it a stress-free option for entertaining or busy mornings.
This casserole offers all the rich, savory goodness of traditional Eggs Benedict but with less fuss. Layers of toasted English muffins, Canadian bacon, and creamy eggs are baked together to create a fluffy, golden casserole that’s smothered in a luscious homemade hollandaise sauce. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or just want to treat your family to a special breakfast, this casserole will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Convenience: You can assemble the casserole the night before, allowing you to relax and enjoy your morning without the stress of cooking everything from scratch.
- Classic Eggs Benedict Flavors: This casserole captures all the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict—eggs, Canadian bacon, hollandaise sauce, and English muffins—while being more approachable and easier to serve to a crowd.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, Easter, or Mother’s Day, this casserole is an impressive dish that will please guests without requiring hours of preparation.
- Customizable: You can add extra ingredients like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes to elevate the casserole. Adjust the seasonings and toppings to make it your own.
- Comforting and Filling: With its rich and creamy textures, this casserole is incredibly satisfying and perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including resting time)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings
- Calories per Serving: Around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5-7g
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 (12 oz) package English muffins (about 4 muffins), cut into cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz Canadian bacon, sliced into rounds or strips
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Special Equipment
While the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole doesn’t require many specialized tools, a few kitchen items will make the process smoother and ensure the casserole turns out perfectly:
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A standard baking dish is ideal for this casserole, allowing enough space to layer all the ingredients comfortably.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing together the eggs and milk and for preparing the hollandaise sauce.
- Saucepan: A small saucepan is used for melting the butter when making the hollandaise sauce.
- Double Boiler or Heatproof Bowl: If you don’t have a double boiler, a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water will work perfectly for preparing the hollandaise sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for both the casserole and hollandaise sauce to ensure the flavors are just right.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is needed for combining the egg and milk mixture before pouring it over the casserole ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Casserole Base
Begin by preparing the casserole base. Cut the English muffins into cubes and place them in a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can lightly toast the cubes if you prefer a firmer texture, but it’s not necessary.
Next, slice the Canadian bacon into rounds or strips and layer it evenly over the English muffin cubes. The Canadian bacon adds a savory, slightly salty flavor that complements the richness of the eggs and hollandaise sauce.
2. Whisk Together the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. The mustard adds a nice tang to the casserole, and the seasonings give the eggs a rich, flavorful base.
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the English muffins and Canadian bacon. Use a spatula to press down on the mixture slightly, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid and becomes fully saturated.
3. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, adding creaminess and a rich, savory flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
4. Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This step is essential as it allows the casserole to soak up the egg mixture and ensures the casserole is flavorful and moist.
5. Preheat the Oven and Bake
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, remove the casserole from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Once the oven is preheated, bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. The casserole should be firm, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
6. Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce
While the casserole is baking, prepare the hollandaise sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Set aside.
In a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water), whisk together the egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk constantly until the egg mixture becomes slightly thicker and pale in color, about 3-4 minutes.
Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while continuing to whisk the mixture. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a teaspoon or two of warm water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Garnish
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the freshly made hollandaise sauce generously over the casserole just before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Slice the casserole into squares and serve immediately. The creamy hollandaise sauce adds the perfect finishing touch to this rich and indulgent dish.
Tips for Perfect Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Use Fresh Eggs: Fresh eggs yield the best texture and flavor, ensuring your casserole is light and fluffy. Avoid using eggs that have been sitting in the fridge for too long.
- Don’t Skimp on the Hollandaise Sauce: The homemade hollandaise sauce is the star of this dish. While it may seem like an extra step, it’s totally worth it for the flavor and richness it brings to the casserole.
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the casserole to make it your own. You can also swap the Canadian bacon for other breakfast meats, such as sausage or ham.
- Prepare the Casserole in Advance: This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. If you don’t want to wait overnight, allow the casserole to soak in the fridge for at least 4 hours to give the bread enough time to absorb the egg mixture.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking to avoid overcooking it. The top should be golden brown, but the center should still be slightly soft and set.
Variations of Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Casserole: For a meatless version, simply omit the Canadian bacon and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also swap the English muffins for whole-grain bread for a healthier option.
- Sausage Eggs Benedict Casserole: Swap the Canadian bacon for cooked breakfast sausage. The savory sausage pairs wonderfully with the creamy eggs and hollandaise sauce for a heartier twist on the classic.
- Crab Eggs Benedict Casserole: For a luxurious variation, replace the Canadian bacon with crab meat. The delicate seafood pairs beautifully with the hollandaise sauce and adds a touch of elegance to the casserole.
Storage and Shelf Life
Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For the best texture, it’s recommended to reheat the casserole in the oven rather than the microwave.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole
Pair this decadent casserole with a few complementary dishes to create the perfect brunch spread:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with berries, citrus, and melon will balance the richness of the casserole.
- Crispy Bacon or Sausage: For a heartier meal, serve the casserole with extra crispy bacon or sausage on the side.
- Mimosas or Bloody Marys: A classic brunch drink like a mimosa or a Bloody Mary will pair beautifully with the flavors of the casserole.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a savory side dish that complements the richness of the casserole.
Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including resting time)
Description
A comforting twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, this casserole is assembled the night before and baked to perfection in the morning. Layers of English muffins, Canadian bacon, and a rich hollandaise sauce make for a savory, indulgent breakfast or brunch that’s ready when you are.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
-
1 (12 oz) package English muffins (about 4 muffins), cut into cubes
-
8 large eggs
-
2 cups whole milk
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
-
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
8 oz Canadian bacon, sliced into rounds or strips
-
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter
-
4 large egg yolks
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
-
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the casserole base. Cut the English muffins into cubes and place them in a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can lightly toast the cubes if you prefer a firmer texture, but it’s not necessary.
Next, slice the Canadian bacon into rounds or strips and layer it evenly over the English muffin cubes. The Canadian bacon adds a savory, slightly salty flavor that complements the richness of the eggs and hollandaise sauce.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. The mustard adds a nice tang to the casserole, and the seasonings give the eggs a rich, flavorful base.
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the English muffins and Canadian bacon. Use a spatula to press down on the mixture slightly, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid and becomes fully saturated.
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, adding creaminess and a rich, savory flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This step is essential as it allows the casserole to soak up the egg mixture and ensures the casserole is flavorful and moist.
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, remove the casserole from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Once the oven is preheated, bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. The casserole should be firm, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
While the casserole is baking, prepare the hollandaise sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Set aside.
In a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water), whisk together the egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk constantly until the egg mixture becomes slightly thicker and pale in color, about 3-4 minutes.
Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while continuing to whisk the mixture. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a teaspoon or two of warm water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the freshly made hollandaise sauce generously over the casserole just before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Slice the casserole into squares and serve immediately. The creamy hollandaise sauce adds the perfect finishing touch to this rich and indulgent dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
Conclusion
Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delicious, make-ahead twist on the classic Eggs Benedict. With layers of buttery English muffins, savory Canadian bacon, and creamy eggs, all topped with a rich hollandaise sauce, this casserole is the perfect dish for brunches, holidays, or any special occasion. The convenience of preparing it the night before makes it a go-to recipe for busy mornings, while the indulgent flavors make it an unforgettable treat. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the comforting and flavorful goodness of Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole!