Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe
Eggs Benedict Casserole is a mouthwatering twist on the classic brunch favorite, Eggs Benedict. This delightful dish is perfect for those who love the rich, smoky flavors that smoking can bring to a recipe. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the history, preparation, and enjoyment of Eggs Benedict Casserole.
The Origin of Eggs Benedict Casserole:
Eggs Benedict, in its traditional form, is said to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The true story of its creation remains a matter of debate, but one thing is certain: it’s a beloved classic. The casserole variation we’ll explore today combines the elegance of Eggs Benedict with the smoky essence of the grill.
Eggs Benedict Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Grill or smoker
- Cast-iron skillet or oven-safe casserole dish
- Thermometer
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 6 English muffins, split and toasted
- 1 pound of Canadian bacon, diced
- 10 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Hollandaise sauce for drizzling
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional)
- Wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory or applewood)
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C) using your choice of wood chips for that smoky flavor.
- In a cast-iron skillet or casserole dish, arrange the toasted English muffin halves, and then top them with the diced Canadian bacon.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Pour this mixture evenly over the muffins and bacon.
- Place the skillet or dish on the smoker or grill. Close the lid and smoke for about 45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and lightly browned on top.
- Carefully remove the casserole and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle melted butter and Hollandaise sauce over the casserole. Sprinkle with chopped chives and, if desired, Gruyère cheese.
Video
Similar Recipes
If you enjoy this smoky twist on a classic, you might also like trying different variations like Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict Casserole or Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Casserole with smoked portobello mushrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eggs Benedict Casserole
1. What is an Eggs Benedict Casserole?
An Eggs Benedict Casserole is a baked dish inspired by the classic Eggs Benedict breakfast, typically featuring layers of English muffins, ham or Canadian bacon, eggs, and hollandaise sauce.
2. How is an Eggs Benedict Casserole prepared?
To make the casserole, one layers toasted English muffins, ham or Canadian bacon, and eggs. It’s then topped with hollandaise sauce and baked until the eggs reach the desired doneness.
3. Can you make an Eggs Benedict Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, many Eggs Benedict Casserole recipes allow for advance preparation, making it convenient for serving during breakfast or brunch.
4. Is it necessary to use English muffins?
While English muffins are traditional, some variations might use different types of bread or even croissants for added richness.
5. Can you prepare Eggs Benedict Casserole without hollandaise sauce?
Certainly, some recipes offer alternatives or modifications, such as a simplified hollandaise or a different sauce altogether.
6. How long does it take to bake Eggs Benedict Casserole?
Baking times can vary, but typically, it takes around 20-30 minutes until the eggs are perfectly cooked.
7. Can Eggs Benedict Casserole be frozen?
Freezing is possible, but it’s recommended to freeze before baking and add the hollandaise sauce fresh when reheating to maintain optimal texture.
8. What are some suitable variations for Eggs Benedict Casserole?
Variations may involve adding ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or smoked salmon for extra flavor and diversity.
YouTube Video Credits:
Allrecipes
Leave a Reply