Are you tired of the same old brunch options that leave you slaving away in the kitchen while your guests enjoy themselves? Look no further than the Eggs Benedict Casserole, a game-changer that will revolutionize the way you approach hosting brunch for a crowd. This delectable dish combines all the flavors of the classic Eggs Benedict in a convenient casserole form, making it easy to serve and enjoy with minimal effort.
The Allure of Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict has long been a brunch staple, cherished for its harmonious blend of flavors – the velvety poached egg, the crispy bacon or Canadian bacon, the buttery hollandaise sauce, all resting atop a perfectly toasted English muffin. However, crafting individual servings can be time-consuming and challenging, especially when catering to a large group.
Enter the Casserole: A Time-Saving Marvel
The beauty of the Eggs Benedict Casserole lies in its simplicity and efficiency. You can prepare this savory delight in advance, allowing you to spend more time socializing with your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen. The casserole format eliminates the need for meticulous assembly, making it an ideal choice for brunches, breakfast potlucks, or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd.
Recipe: Eggs Benedict Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 6 English muffins, split and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound Canadian bacon, diced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
Hollandaise Sauce:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and cayenne pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Place the English muffin pieces in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the diced Canadian bacon evenly over the muffins.
- Pour the egg mixture over the muffins and bacon, ensuring an even distribution.
- Let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the muffins to absorb the liquid.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- While the casserole is baking, prepare the hollandaise sauce by whisking together the egg yolks and lemon juice in a heatproof bowl. Gradually whisk in the melted butter. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and cayenne pepper.
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle the hollandaise sauce over the casserole and garnish with chopped chives.
Serve this Eggs Benedict Casserole alongside a fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad for a complete brunch experience that will leave your guests raving. The convenience of this dish, combined with its rich flavors, makes it a standout option for hosting brunch for a crowd. Say goodbye to the stress of individual Eggs Benedict servings and embrace the ease and deliciousness of the casserole. Your guests will thank you, and you’ll have more time to savor the moments of connection with friends and family.