Here is my personal confession: mornings in our house used to be… chaotic. Between getting everyone ready for school and work, breakfast was often a rushed affair, usually consisting of cold cereal or toast. Weekends weren’t much better; the idea of a leisurely, delicious brunch felt like a distant dream. That was until I discovered the magic of the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole. This recipe has been a complete game-changer. Imagine waking up on a Saturday morning to the aroma of warm, cheesy goodness wafting from your kitchen, knowing that a decadent brunch is practically ready to go. The first time I made it, my family was blown away. The perfectly cooked eggs, nestled in a bed of savory ham and toasted English muffins, all smothered in a rich, creamy Hollandaise sauce… it was like a restaurant-quality Eggs Benedict, but made effortlessly at home. The best part? Most of the work is done the night before, leaving you free to actually enjoy your morning. It’s become our go-to for holidays, special occasions, and even just a regular weekend treat. Trust me, if you’re looking for a way to impress your family and friends (and yourself!) with minimal morning effort, this Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is your answer. Get ready to transform your brunch game forever!

Ingredients

• English Muffins: (12, split and toasted) These form the base of our casserole, providing a sturdy and slightly chewy texture to soak up all the delicious flavors. Toasting them beforehand prevents sogginess.
• Cooked Ham: (1 pound, diced) Adds a savory and classic Eggs Benedict flavor. You can use leftover ham, deli ham, or even Canadian bacon or prosciutto for variations.
• Eggs: (12 large) The star of the show! They create the rich and custardy filling of the casserole. Use fresh, large eggs for the best results.
• Milk: (1 cup) Adds moisture and creaminess to the egg mixture, helping to create a soft and tender casserole. Whole milk will provide the richest flavor, but 2% or even skim milk can be used.
• Heavy Cream: (1/2 cup) Enhances the richness and luxurious texture of the casserole. You can substitute with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, but heavy cream truly elevates the dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: (1 cup) Provides a sharp and savory cheesy element that complements the ham and eggs beautifully. You can use other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup) Adds a nutty and salty depth of flavor to the casserole. Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best taste.
• Green Onions: (1/4 cup, chopped) Provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the casserole. Chives can also be used as a substitute.
• Dried Mustard: (1 teaspoon) Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the egg mixture, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
• Salt: (1 teaspoon) Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and seasons the casserole perfectly. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper: (1/2 teaspoon) Adds a touch of spice and complexity to the flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.
• Paprika: (1/2 teaspoon, optional) Adds a mild smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the casserole. Smoked paprika can be used for a more intense smoky flavor.
• Hollandaise Sauce: (Homemade or store-bought, about 2 cups) The essential element of Eggs Benedict! A rich, buttery, and tangy sauce that elevates the casserole to gourmet levels. You can make your own or use a high-quality store-bought version for convenience.
• Fresh Parsley: (For garnish, optional) Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch and visual appeal to the finished casserole.

Instructions

1. Prepare the English Muffins: Begin by splitting the English muffins in half. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp around the edges. This step is crucial as it prevents the muffins from becoming soggy in the casserole. Once toasted, set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Casserole Base: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the toasted English muffin halves in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared dish, cut-side up. Ensure they are evenly distributed to create a solid base for the casserole.
3. Layer the Ham and Cheese: Sprinkle the diced cooked ham evenly over the toasted English muffins. Distribute it in a way that ensures every muffin half gets a good portion of ham. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the ham. Follow with the shredded Parmesan cheese, creating a delicious cheesy layer over the ham.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, crack the 12 large eggs. Add the milk, heavy cream, chopped green onions, dried mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined and the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. Ensure the dried mustard is fully incorporated to avoid any clumps.
5. Pour Egg Mixture Over Layers: Gently pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the layers of English muffins, ham, and cheese in the baking dish. Make sure the egg mixture seeps down and saturates the layers, ensuring every part of the casserole is moist and flavorful. If necessary, gently press down on the muffin halves to ensure they are submerged in the egg mixture.
6. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the casserole in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours. This overnight chilling allows the English muffins to absorb the egg mixture, and the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer and more flavorful casserole.
7. Preheat Oven and Bake: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while the oven preheats. This helps to ensure even baking.
8. Bake the Casserole: Place the uncovered baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown on top. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole; it should come out mostly clean with just a slight moistness. The eggs should be cooked through and no longer jiggly.
9. Prepare Hollandaise Sauce (if homemade): While the casserole is baking, prepare your Hollandaise sauce if you are making it from scratch. Follow your favorite Hollandaise sauce recipe. If using store-bought, gently warm it up according to package instructions. Ensure the sauce is warm and smooth before serving.
10. Serve and Garnish: Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Cut the casserole into squares. Serve each square generously drizzled with warm Hollandaise sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, estimated, assuming 12 servings from a 9×13 inch casserole. Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.)

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g

(Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (This includes toasting the English muffins, dicing the ham, chopping green onions, whisking the egg mixture, and assembling the casserole.)
• Chill Time: Overnight (8-24 hours in the refrigerator) This is the beauty of the recipe! Most of the work is done in advance, making your morning routine stress-free.
• Cook Time: 45-55 minutes (Baking time in the oven. Actual baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.)
• Total Time (excluding chill time): Approximately 1 hour 5-20 minutes (From start to finish on the day of baking, including prep and cook time.)

The overnight chill time is what makes this recipe incredibly convenient for brunches and gatherings. You can prepare it entirely the day before and simply bake it in the morning.

How to Serve

This Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but you can enhance your brunch spread with some delicious accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with berries, melon, and grapes provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the casserole. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit cut through the savory flavors and cleanse the palate.
• Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: A side of roasted vegetables adds a healthy and vibrant element to the meal. Asparagus or green beans, simply roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper, are excellent choices. Their slight bitterness complements the richness of the casserole.
• Breakfast Potatoes or Hash Browns: For a heartier brunch, serve with a side of crispy breakfast potatoes or hash browns. These starchy sides add substance and are always a crowd-pleaser. Consider adding some herbs and spices to your potatoes for extra flavor.
• Side Salad with Light Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing and lighter option. Arugula, spinach, or mixed greens would work well. The acidity of the vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Mimosas or Bellinis: No brunch is complete without celebratory drinks! Mimosas (orange juice and champagne) or Bellinis (peach puree and Prosecco) are classic brunch cocktails that pair perfectly with Eggs Benedict Casserole.
• Coffee, Tea, or Fresh Juice: Offer a variety of beverages to cater to everyone’s preferences. Freshly brewed coffee, a selection of teas, and fresh orange juice or grapefruit juice are all excellent choices.
• Warm Pastries or Croissants: For a truly indulgent brunch, add a basket of warm pastries or croissants to the table. The buttery and flaky textures provide a delightful contrast to the casserole.
• Bacon or Sausage (Optional): While the casserole already contains ham, some guests might appreciate additional breakfast meats. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage can be served on the side for those who want extra protein.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Skip Toasting the Muffins: Toasting the English muffins is a crucial step to prevent sogginess in the casserole. Toasting creates a barrier that helps them hold their shape and texture when soaked in the egg mixture.
2. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor profile. Gruyere, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all work beautifully in this casserole.
3. Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the Hollandaise for extra zing.
4. Make it Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus. Roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts would also be delicious additions.
5. Use Leftover Bread: If you don’t have English muffins, you can use other types of bread, such as croissants, brioche, sourdough, or even day-old French bread. Just make sure to toast them lightly before assembling the casserole.
6. Make-Ahead Hollandaise: While Hollandaise is best served fresh, you can make it a few hours ahead and keep it warm in a thermos or a double boiler over very low heat. Alternatively, use a high-quality store-bought Hollandaise sauce for convenience.
7. Prevent Over-Browning: If you notice the top of the casserole browning too quickly in the oven, loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. This will prevent it from burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
8. Reheat Leftovers Properly: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Be mindful that reheating may slightly alter the texture of the eggs.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this casserole the same day I want to bake it?
A: While technically you can, the overnight chilling is highly recommended. It allows the English muffins to absorb the egg mixture properly and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a much better texture and taste. If you are short on time, chill for at least 2-3 hours.

Q2: Can I use store-bought Hollandaise sauce?
A: Absolutely! Using store-bought Hollandaise sauce is a great time-saver and still yields delicious results. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand and warm it gently before serving.

Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Freezing is not recommended for this casserole. The texture of the eggs and Hollandaise sauce can change significantly upon thawing and reheating, potentially becoming watery or rubbery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of baking.

Q4: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?
A: Toasting the English muffins before assembling the casserole is the key to preventing sogginess. This creates a barrier that helps them maintain their texture. Also, ensure you don’t over-saturate the muffins with too much egg mixture.

Q5: Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a slightly lighter casserole. However, heavy cream contributes significantly to the richness and luxurious texture, so the result might be less decadent.

Q6: What if I don’t have green onions? Can I use something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute green onions with chives, finely chopped shallots, or even a small amount of finely diced yellow onion. These will provide a similar mild onion flavor.

Q7: How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
A: The casserole is done when it is set and lightly golden brown on top. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a slight moistness. The eggs should be cooked through and no longer jiggly.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole besides green onions?
A: Yes, absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, asparagus, or roasted red peppers would all be delicious additions. Just make sure to cook any raw vegetables before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender when baked.

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