Eggs Benedict Casserole
Irresistible Gluten-Free Eggs Benedict Casserole: A Flavorful Brunch Delight
If you adore the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict but want a simple and delicious way to enjoy them, this Eggs Benedict Casserole is the perfect solution. Combining toasted gluten-free bread, Canadian bacon, and eggs, then generously smothered in a rich and creamy hollandaise sauce, this overnight breakfast casserole is not only convenient but also a delightful treat for brunch gatherings or special occasions Eggs Benedict Casserole.
A Tribute to Eggs Benedict
Growing up, Eggs Benedict was a staple in our family, especially on Mother’s Day. It was my mother’s favorite breakfast dish, and we always made it a point to either whip it up at home or take her out for brunch so she could savor her beloved Eggs Benedict. It quickly became one of my all-time favorites too. However, I faced a challenge: my husband is not exactly a culinary expert, and I wanted to ensure he could easily make me my favorite breakfast on that special day Eggs Benedict Casserole.
This led me to create the Gluten-Free Eggs Benedict Casserole —a dish that embodies all the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict without the fuss of poaching eggs. With this casserole, my husband can impress me with a delicious meal while I take a well-deserved break from cooking Eggs Benedict Casserole.
Why Gluten Free?
For those of us who follow a gluten-free diet, finding alternatives to traditional recipes can be daunting. Gluten-free English muffins are often hard to come by, making the quest for a satisfying breakfast challenging. Fortunately, my favorite gluten-free brand, Schär, offers a delicious solution. Their Artisan Baker White Bread provides the perfect base for this casserole, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and flavorful.
The best part? Schär’s gluten-free bread is not only tasty but also shelf-stable, meaning I never have to worry about discovering moldy bread when I need it most. Plus, it’s readily available at my local Walmart, making it easy to stock up.
How to Make Eggs Benedict Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf Schär gluten-free bread
- 2 cups gluten-free Canadian bacon, chopped (you can also use gluten-free cooked ham or turkey ham)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (dairy-free options include almond or cashew milk)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon tarragon or dried parsley (optional)
- Chopped chives and fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- Paprika (for garnish)
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1½ sticks butter (dairy-free option: use Smart Balance butter)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard (can substitute hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the Schär gluten-free bread into small cubes. Spread the bread pieces evenly on an ungreased baking sheet. Toast the bread in the oven for 5-10 minutes until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Add Canadian Bacon: Chop the gluten-free Canadian bacon into bite-sized pieces. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the Canadian bacon, followed by the toasted gluten-free bread. Top with the remaining Canadian bacon.
- Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and any additional seasonings you prefer until fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and Canadian bacon in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake the Casserole: The next morning, remove the casserole from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the plastic wrap, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean, and the sides should pull away from the pan.
- Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce: During the last 15-20 minutes of baking, start preparing the hollandaise sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk the egg yolks, water, and lemon juice until thick and pale. Place the pan over low heat while continuing to whisk. Gradually add the butter in small pieces, whisking constantly until fully incorporated and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and Dijon mustard or cayenne pepper to taste.
- Serve: Once the casserole is done baking, sprinkle with chopped chives and parsley. Drizzle the hollandaise sauce over the casserole and serve any remaining sauce on the side for those who prefer extra. Garnish with paprika for an added touch.
Tips for a Perfect Eggs Benedict Casserole
- Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, simply replace the milk with almond or cashew milk and use dairy-free butter. This way, you can cater to everyone in the family, including those who are lactose intolerant.
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. The beauty of this Eggs Benedict Casserole is its versatility!
- Hollandaise Sauce: The hollandaise sauce is crucial to achieving that classic Eggs Benedict flavor. Don’t skip this step! Following Julia Child’s technique will ensure your sauce turns out perfectly every time.
Enjoying Your Eggs Benedict Casserole
This Eggs Benedict Breakfast Casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself and your family to a comforting brunch. With no need for egg poaching, it simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors of Eggs Benedict without the stress.
On special occasions like Mother’s Day, I look forward to indulging in this Egg Benedict Casserole. Knowing that I can enjoy it gluten-free and even dairy-free makes it all the more satisfying. There’s something incredibly gratifying about bringing together family and friends over a hearty breakfast that not only fills the stomach but warms the heart.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever been intimidated by the idea of making Eggs Benedict, this Eggs Benedict Casserole is your solution. With simple steps and easy preparation, you can enjoy the flavors of this beloved breakfast dish with minimal effort. Whether you serve it for a festive brunch or a casual family breakfast, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home.
So gather your ingredients, prepare the casserole the night before, and enjoy the delightful experience of waking up to a warm, comforting meal. With every bite, you’ll savor the rich flavors of Eggs Benedict in a gluten-free form that everyone can enjoy!
This recipe highlights the wonderful aspects of the classic Eggs Benedict Casserole while ensuring that it’s accessible for those following gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Whether you’re a fan of Joanna Gaines’ approach or simply love a good breakfast dish, this casserole delivers on flavor and convenience. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it’s a breakfast favorite!