Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole – sweet dreams kitchen

The Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic eggs benedict, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. This dish combines layers of English muffins, smoked chicken ham, and rich cheddar cheese, all soaked in a creamy egg custard overnight. With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, it’s an ideal choice for special occasions or leisurely weekend mornings. Plus, the homemade hollandaise sauce adds that luxurious touch to elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This casserole can be assembled the night before, making your morning stress-free.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of smoky chicken ham and sharp cheddar creates a savory delight that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast, this dish fits any occasion.
Rich and Satisfying: The creamy custard base ensures each bite is indulgent and filling.
Homemade Hollandaise Sauce: Elevate each serving with a drizzle of fresh hollandaise, made easily with just a blender.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick cooking spray
Baking dish (12×8-inch or 13×9-inch)
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of the casserole from the dish for serving.
Baking dish: A deep baking dish allows for even layering and cooking of the casserole.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the egg mixture thoroughly.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delicious Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole:

1 12 oz package English muffins (split in half and cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 lb smoked chicken ham (cubed)
2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (divided use)
2 cups half and half (or heavy cream)
8 large eggs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp ground mustard
1/2 tsp granulated garlic
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp dry thyme
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
2 Tbsp butter (cubed)
paprika
1 recipe Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce (OR 1.25 oz packet Hollandaise Sauce mix)
chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnishing

How to Make Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the English Muffins

Place cubed English muffins on a baking sheet. Leave on counter overnight to dry out or toast under the broiler until lightly golden.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Layer half of the English muffin cubes at the bottom of the dish.
Top with half of the cubed smoked chicken ham and half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat these layers, finishing with cheese on top.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
Half and half (or heavy cream)
Eggs
Salt
Black pepper
Ground mustard
Granulated garlic
Onion powder
Dry thyme
Ground nutmeg

Step 4: Combine Layers with Egg Mixture

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in your baking dish.
Gently press down on the English muffin cubes using a spoon to ensure they soak up some of the egg custard mixture.

Step 5: Chill Overnight

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove from fridge about 15 minutes prior to baking.
Uncover, dot with cubed butter, and sprinkle paprika on top.

Step 7: Cook Thoroughly

Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes.
Remove foil, then continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until top is golden brown and knife inserted into center comes out clean.

Step 8: Make Hollandaise Sauce

While casserole bakes, prepare hollandaise sauce using your preferred method (see step-by-step instructions here).

Step 9: Serve

Allow casserole to stand for about five minutes before slicing.
Drizzle warm hollandaise sauce over each serving just before serving; garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Enjoy this comforting Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole as a satisfying start to your day!

How to Serve Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Serving Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is an enjoyable experience that can elevate your breakfast or brunch gathering. The creamy, cheesy layers paired with the rich hollandaise sauce make this dish a delightful centerpiece.

Classic Presentation

Serve hot directly from the baking dish for a homey feel.
Garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a vibrant touch.

Individual Portions

Cut the casserole into squares and serve on individual plates.
Add a drizzle of hollandaise sauce on each portion for personal flair.

Brunch Buffet Style

Set up a buffet with the casserole as the main dish.
Offer additional toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or extra cheese for guests to customize their servings.

Accompanying Beverages

Pair with freshly brewed coffee or tea for a comforting beverage option.
Consider serving fresh juice (orange or cranberry) for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Perfecting your Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole ensures that every bite is deliciously satisfying. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Choose stale English muffins: Using slightly stale English muffins allows them to absorb the egg mixture better, resulting in a more cohesive casserole.
Layer properly: Ensure even layers of muffin, chicken ham, and cheese to maintain flavor balance throughout the dish.
Allow overnight chilling: Letting the casserole sit in the fridge overnight helps flavors meld and enhances texture.
Check doneness carefully: Insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when fully cooked. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Best Side Dishes for Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and sweetness.
Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown potatoes add a crunchy texture that complements the creamy casserole.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly seasoned spinach provides a nutritious green option that balances richness.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil offer a flavorful side packed with nutrients.
Tomato Slices: Fresh tomato slices sprinkled with salt and pepper can add freshness and acidity to cut through richness.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

Overcooking the casserole – This can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it during the last 15-20 minutes of baking for that perfect golden brown top.
Skipping overnight chilling – Failing to let the casserole sit overnight means the flavors won’t meld properly. Always allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours.
Using stale muffins – Fresh English muffins are essential for achieving the right texture. Make sure they are not past their prime before using.
Neglecting seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t skip the spices; they elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Forgetting to cover while baking – Not covering with foil initially can cause uneven cooking. Always start with foil on top to ensure even heat distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and gently warm until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole.

What is Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole?

Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is a delightful breakfast dish that combines layers of English muffins, chicken ham, and cheesy egg custard, all prepared ahead of time.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken ham with smoked turkey or add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make my hollandaise sauce?

You can use a simple Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce or a packet mix. Follow the specific instructions provided with your chosen method for best results.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This casserole is perfect for meal prep since you can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Can I use regular milk instead of half-and-half?

Yes, you can use whole milk as a substitute for half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.

Final Thoughts

The Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole is an ideal choice for brunch gatherings or busy mornings when you want something special without much effort. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides for added variety!