There’s something so comforting about breakfast casseroles, don’t you think? They bring a sense of warmth and togetherness, especially on lazy weekends when everyone gathers around the table. This *eggs benedict casserole* takes that cozy feeling to the next level! Imagine layers of fluffy eggs, tender English muffins soaked in a creamy mixture, and a delightful drizzle of hollandaise sauce—wow! My family has a tradition of whipping up breakfast casseroles for special occasions, and this one always steals the show. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for brunch gatherings or a special family breakfast. Let’s dive into the goodness!
Ingredients for Eggs Benedict Casserole
To whip up this scrumptious *eggs benedict casserole*, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika for that hint of warmth
- 4 English muffins, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced into small cubes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for that melty goodness
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce, ready to drizzle on top
These ingredients come together to create a rich and hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at your breakfast table!
How to Prepare Eggs Benedict Casserole
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious *eggs benedict casserole*! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the results are totally worth it. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a breakfast masterpiece in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown top. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you prep the rest of your ingredients!
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. This mixture will become the creamy base of your casserole. Next, gently fold in the torn English muffins and the diced ham. Make sure everything is well combined and those muffin pieces are nicely soaked in the egg mix. Trust me, this makes all the difference!
Combine and Bake
Once your mixture is ready, pour it into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and don’t forget to sprinkle that luscious 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Now, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until it’s set in the center. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed up and slightly golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!
Serve with Hollandaise Sauce
When your casserole is out of the oven and slightly cooled, it’s time to drizzle that heavenly hollandaise sauce over the top. I usually do this right before serving to keep it nice and fresh. Just pour it in a zigzag pattern for a beautiful presentation. Your guests will be in awe, and you’ll be the star of the breakfast table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—whip it up in just 15 minutes!
- Easy to serve—just cut, plate, and enjoy!
- Perfect for gatherings—feeds a crowd without fuss.
- Delicious flavor—rich eggs, savory ham, and creamy hollandaise unite!
- Versatile for dietary preferences—easily make it vegetarian by omitting the ham.
This *eggs benedict casserole* truly has it all—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together for a delightful breakfast experience!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your *eggs benedict casserole* turns out absolutely perfect every time! First off, consider preparing it a day in advance. Just assemble the casserole, cover it, and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll save time in the morning!
Also, don’t be shy about adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of flavor and color. You can sprinkle them on top just before serving for that extra touch. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your casserole to a whole new level!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For each serving of this *eggs benedict casserole*, you can expect around 300 calories, 20g of fat, 16g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. Enjoy your delicious breakfast without the guilt!
FAQ About Eggs Benedict Casserole
You might have a few questions about this *eggs benedict casserole*, and I’m here to help! One of the most common queries is about storage. If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Another question I often get is about customization. Feel free to swap the ham for cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also mix in different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste!
If you’re wondering about cooking methods, this casserole is baked for that perfect texture, but you can also experiment with adding it to a slow cooker on low for a few hours if you’re looking for a hands-off approach. Enjoy the process and make it your own!
