Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
If you’ve ever wished you could wake up to a gourmet breakfast without all the morning fuss, this Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine all the classic flavors of Eggs Benedict—English muffins, Canadian bacon, silky eggs, and that rich, tangy hollandaise sauce—coming together in one easy, make-ahead dish. It’s perfect for lazy weekend brunches or special occasions when you want to impress without stressing.
I love how this casserole allows you to prep the night before, so when it’s time to eat, you just pop it in the oven and get on with the day. The texture is creamy and custardy, yet the top gets those perfect golden edges that make me feel like I’m dining out. Plus, making the hollandaise fresh while it bakes keeps it light and velvety—trust me, it’s worth the little extra effort!
Why This Recipe Works
- Hands-off prep: You can assemble everything the night before, freeing up your morning without sacrificing flavor or quality.
- Classic flavors in one dish: Combines the best of traditional eggs benedict elements without the need for poaching eggs individually.
- Customizable layering: You can easily swap out the Canadian bacon or add mix-ins to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Rich hollandaise made fresh: Making the sauce while the casserole bakes keeps it light and silky, avoiding that heavy sauce feel.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe plays a role, from the bread base to the meaty Canadian bacon and the eggs that soak it all together beautifully. Buying fresh, quality ingredients really elevates the final casserole, so don’t rush the shopping trip.
- English muffins: Their nooks and crannies soak up the egg mixture while keeping some texture, making for a sturdy yet soft casserole base.
- Canadian bacon: Thick-cut options give a meaty, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy eggs and buttery sauce.
- Eggs: The star ingredients providing richness and structure, turning the casserole custardy and satisfying.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and creaminess without making the casserole too heavy.
- Butter: Critical for the hollandaise sauce, bringing that lush, velvety mouthfeel.
- Lemon juice: Balances the richness by adding a subtle brightness in the hollandaise.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the layers of flavor.
- Chives: Fresh herbs to sprinkle on top for a pop of color and mild oniony zip.
Tweak to Your Taste
I’ve found this Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe super flexible, so I encourage you to experiment with your favorite add-ins or swaps. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or need to cater to different diets, it’s easy to make it your own.
- Swap meat: I’ve used smoked salmon instead of Canadian bacon for a pescatarian twist—delicious and elegant!
- Vegetarian option: Try using sautéed spinach and mushrooms instead of meat; it still gives that hearty, savory vibe.
- Cheesy upgrade: Adding a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Gruyère before baking gives a melty crust I adore.
- Spice it up: I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce to the egg mix for a little warmth.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Base and Meat
Start by spraying your baking dish to prevent sticking—that little step saves you a lot of frustration later. Cut your English muffins into half-inch cubes; the texture works beautifully to absorb the egg mixture without turning too soggy. Cube your Canadian bacon, tossing half with the bread in the dish helps distribute flavors, so the meat infuses every bite. Use your hands to get everything mixed gently but well.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and blended. This mixture is what sets the custardy base, so don’t skip the seasoning—it really makes a difference. Pour everything into the casserole pan over your bread-and-meat layer, then scatter the remaining meat cubes on top and press them gently under the eggs.
Step 3: Let it Rest Overnight
Cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is key for letting the bread soak fully while the flavors marry. If you’re in a hurry, a few hours will do, but I promise the texture improves the longer it rests.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Before baking, bring the casserole out to room temperature for about 30 minutes—that helps it cook evenly. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, loosely covering with foil for the last 20 minutes to avoid burning on top. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set but still tender; the edges should be lightly browned and inviting.
Step 5: Make the Hollandaise Sauce Fresh
While your casserole bakes, melt the butter and keep it warm. Blend the egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and optional hot sauce briefly, then drizzle the warm butter in slowly while blending on low. The sauce will thicken into a luxuriously smooth emulsion—fresh hollandaise is so worth the effort, trust me. Serve immediately over slices of the casserole for that iconic Eggs Benedict finish.
Pro Tips for Making Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
- Use thick-cut Canadian bacon: It holds up better in the casserole and gives more bite than thinner slices.
- Don’t skip resting time: Allowing the casserole to soak overnight unlocks the best texture and melding of flavors.
- Make hollandaise just before serving: It tastes freshest and keeps that smooth, creamy consistency instead of separating.
- Keep the sauce warm gently: Place it in a thermos or set the blender in warm water to maintain temperature until serving.
How to Serve Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
I always sprinkle fresh chopped chives over the hollandaise—it adds a lovely pop of green and subtle oniony freshness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, I add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika or a few grinds of fresh black pepper for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
For a balanced meal, I like to serve crisp roasted potatoes or lightly dressed arugula salad on the side. Fresh fruit, like berries or sliced citrus, adds a sweet, bright contrast that complements the creamy casserole beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting brunch? Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. I’ve even layered the casserole in a trifle-style glass dish for a fun, layered presentation—people loved the visual and it’s easy to serve straight from the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casseroles keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I find slicing the casserole before refrigerating makes reheating easier and more even, plus you can grab just what you want for quick breakfasts.
Freezing
I’ve frozen portions wrapped tightly in plastic and foil, and then reheated them later—while the texture softens a bit, the casserole still tastes fantastic. Just thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, I pop portions into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the eggs rubbery. For the hollandaise, I whisk it quickly over gentle heat or warm it in a thermos to serve fresh.
FAQs
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Can I use regular bacon instead of Canadian bacon in the casserole?
Yes, you can substitute regular bacon, but keep in mind it’s typically greasier and less firm than Canadian bacon. You might want to cook it beforehand and drain it well to avoid excess grease in the casserole. The flavor will be smokier and a bit different but still delicious.
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Is it necessary to make the hollandaise sauce from scratch?
Making fresh hollandaise really elevates this overnight casserole and gives you the authentic eggs benedict experience. However, if you’re pressed for time, you could use a high-quality store-bought hollandaise or a quick substitute like a lemony mayonnaise, though it won’t be quite the same.
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Can I assemble this casserole and bake it the same day?
Absolutely! While letting it sit overnight improves texture and flavor melding, you can bake it immediately after assembling. Just expect that the casserole might be slightly less custardy and the bread won’t absorb as much of the egg mixture.
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What if my hollandaise sauce starts to solidify before serving?
If your sauce cools and thickens, gently warm it by placing the container in a bowl of warm water and stirring until it loosens up again. Keeping it in a thermos or covering it while warm also helps maintain the perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe has become a staple for me whenever I want a fuss-free brunch that still wows guests and family. The make-ahead aspect means you get to enjoy a beautifully indulgent breakfast without rushing around, and the fresh hollandaise makes it feel truly special. Give it a try—you’ll love how it simplifies the classic brunch vibe and makes mornings a little brighter.
PrintOvernight Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic brunch favorite, perfect for preparing ahead and serving a crowd. Layers of toasted English muffins, savory Canadian bacon, and a rich egg custard bake together to create a comforting dish, topped with a creamy homemade hollandaise sauce for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 6 whole English muffins
- 450 grams (1 pound) thick cut Canadian bacon or ham
- 10 large whole eggs
- 227 grams (1 cup) milk, preferably whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chives for garnish if desired
For the Hollandaise Sauce
- 170 grams (1 1/2 sticks, 3/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 6 large egg yolks
- 38 grams (2 1/2 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Splash of hot sauce or pinch of ground cayenne, if desired
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9 x 13 inch (22 x 33 cm) baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cube the English Muffins: Split the English muffins in half, then slice into ½ inch (1.25 cm) cubes. Place these cubes evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add Canadian Bacon: Cube the Canadian bacon or ham and add half of it over the bread cubes. Lightly toss with your hands to combine and then spread evenly in the dish.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and bacon layers. Top with the remaining bacon cubes, pressing them down gently to submerge in the liquid.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours for optimal texture. Alternatively, bake immediately but texture may vary.
- Bring to Room Temperature: About 1 hour 30 minutes before baking, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Casserole: Remove the cover and bake for 1 hour until eggs are set. During the last 20 minutes, loosely cover with foil to prevent over-browning. Remove from oven and keep covered until ready to serve.
- Prepare Hollandaise Sauce: Melt the butter and keep warm. In a blender, combine egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and hot sauce or cayenne if using. Blend briefly at high speed. Remove blender lid and slowly stream in the warm melted butter while blending on low until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Slice the casserole and pour hollandaise sauce over the portions. Garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately, keeping hollandaise warm to prevent solidification.
- Store Leftovers: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
Notes
- If using uncooked Canadian bacon or ham, cook it prior to adding to the casserole.
- Overnight refrigeration enhances the texture, but you can bake immediately if short on time.
- To keep hollandaise sauce warm without solidifying, store in a thermos or on lowest heat on the stove.
- Chives add a fresh garnish but are optional.
- Use whole milk for best creaminess; other milks can be substituted with slight texture changes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/9 of casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 280 mg