Imagine waking up on a lazy Sunday morning with the smell of something incredibly comforting wafting through your kitchen. Now, picture yourself sitting at a cozy table with a plate of rich, flavorful Eggs Benedict Casserole smothered in creamy, buttery hollandaise sauce. Sounds dreamy, right? This recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a brunch twist—a delicious, make-ahead casserole inspired by the classic Eggs Benedict.
Eggs Benedict has always been the star of fancy brunches. But if you’re like me, the thought of poaching eggs and making hollandaise sauce on a busy morning feels a bit intimidating. That’s where this recipe shines. By turning a classic dish into an easy, crowd-friendly casserole, you get all the familiar flavors without the stress.
What I love most about this Eggs Benedict Casserole is how it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a special family brunch or just treating yourself to something extra cozy on a regular weekend, this dish always delivers. The layers of fluffy English muffins, savory Canadian bacon, and creamy egg mixture baked to perfection are irresistible. And when you drizzle that rich, velvety hollandaise sauce over the top? Pure magic.
The best part? You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven the next morning. It’s fuss-free and incredibly satisfying. No more standing over the stove trying to juggle multiple pans—just a delicious, comforting dish you can effortlessly serve. Let me show you how to make this amazing casserole and turn your next breakfast or brunch into something unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why this Eggs Benedict Casserole will quickly become one of your favorite go-to brunch recipes. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also practical and versatile. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
It’s Easy and Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparing breakfast for a crowd can be stressful, but this casserole makes it a breeze. You can prepare the entire dish the night before and just bake it in the morning. It’s the perfect solution for holidays, brunch gatherings, or even a simple weekend treat.
Rich, Creamy, and Flavorful: The combination of fluffy English muffin pieces, smoky Canadian bacon, and custard-like eggs is pure comfort. And when you add that luxurious hollandaise sauce on top, every bite feels indulgent and satisfying.
Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. The flavors are comforting yet sophisticated, making it a great choice for special occasions or even a regular breakfast treat.
Customizable: Want to add a little extra flair? You can easily mix in some veggies, swap Canadian bacon for turkey bacon, or even use gluten-free English muffins if needed. The recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences.
Impressively Simple: Even though this dish looks and tastes gourmet, it’s actually straightforward to make. The hollandaise sauce, in particular, is a simplified version that doesn’t require you to be a master chef.
If you’ve been looking for a way to bring some wow factor to your breakfast or brunch spread, this recipe is it. It’s comforting, elegant, and seriously delicious.
Health Benefits
While this Eggs Benedict Casserole may be considered a comfort food, it still has some noteworthy nutritional benefits that make it a satisfying and wholesome meal option. Here’s what makes it more than just a decadent treat:
Protein-Packed Goodness: Thanks to the combination of eggs, Canadian bacon, and heavy cream in the hollandaise sauce, this casserole offers a hearty dose of protein. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance, energy production, and overall body function.
Source of Healthy Fats: The heavy cream and butter in the hollandaise sauce provide rich, satisfying fats. While they may be calorie-dense, fats are necessary for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins, promoting brain health, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, and choline. These nutrients support brain health, bone strength, and immune function.
Low in Carbohydrates: This recipe is relatively low in carbs compared to other breakfast options, especially if you opt for low-carb or gluten-free English muffins. This makes it a suitable choice for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.
Customizable for Health Needs: If you want to lighten up the dish, you can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients. Swapping Canadian bacon for turkey bacon can also reduce the sodium content.
Overall, this casserole offers a satisfying and balanced meal that can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet. And since you can customize it to suit your dietary needs, it’s a versatile dish that fits into various meal plans.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s break down the essentials:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (Plus overnight refrigeration)
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, 10 minutes (Plus overnight refrigeration)
Servings: 8 generous servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 32g
Cholesterol: 310mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
This nutritional breakdown will vary slightly depending on ingredient brands and specific modifications you make, but it gives you a general idea of what to expect.
Now that you’ve got a clear picture of what this dish entails, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need and how to prepare this mouthwatering casserole.
Ingredients List
To make this Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Casserole:
- 12 oz Canadian bacon, chopped (This provides that delicious smoky flavor you love in traditional Eggs Benedict.)
- 6 English muffins, split and cut into 1-inch pieces (The perfect base for soaking up all the creamy egg mixture.)
- 8 large eggs (Rich in protein and essential vitamins.)
- 2 cups 2% milk (You can also use whole milk for a creamier texture or low-fat milk if preferred.)
- 1 tsp onion powder (Adds subtle savory depth.)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (For a hint of warmth and lovely color.)
Hollandaise Sauce:
- 4 large egg yolks (These give the sauce its rich, creamy texture.)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (For that luxurious, velvety feel.)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (Provides a bright, tangy contrast.)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (Enhances flavor with a touch of sharpness.)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (The key to that classic hollandaise richness.)
- Minced chives (optional, for garnish and a pop of color.)
Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of bringing this delicious dish to life.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to turn them into a mouthwatering Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce. We’ll break it down into manageable steps to ensure everything comes together perfectly.
Prepare the Casserole
- Grease Your Baking Dish:
- Start by greasing a 3-quart or 13×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Layer the Canadian Bacon and English Muffins:
- Spread half of the chopped Canadian bacon evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Scatter the cut English muffin pieces over the Canadian bacon layer. This creates that classic Eggs Benedict base we all love.
- Sprinkle the remaining Canadian bacon over the English muffins to ensure every bite has that savory, smoky flavor.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, and paprika until well-combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
- This egg mixture is the key to achieving that custard-like texture once baked. The onion powder adds a gentle savory note, while the paprika provides warmth and a touch of color.
- Pour the Egg Mixture Over the Casserole:
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered English muffins and Canadian bacon. Make sure everything is evenly soaked.
- Press down gently with a spatula to help the muffins absorb the egg mixture.
- Cover and Refrigerate:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it overnight.
- This step allows the flavors to meld and ensures the muffins soak up all the delicious egg mixture. Don’t skip it!
Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes while the oven heats up. This helps it bake more evenly.
- Sprinkle with Paprika:
- Before baking, sprinkle the casserole with paprika. This not only adds a lovely touch of color but also enhances the flavor profile with subtle warmth.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35 minutes. The foil helps trap moisture, allowing the eggs to cook through without drying out.
- Uncover and Continue Baking:
- After the initial 35 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes.
- The casserole is done when the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- Let It Rest:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving much easier.
Make the Hollandaise Sauce
- Prepare Your Double Boiler:
- Fill the bottom of a double boiler with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can use a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Whisk the Ingredients:
- In the top part of the double boiler, combine the egg yolks, heavy whipping cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Whisk constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to thicken slightly. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the Butter:
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly drizzle in the melted butter, whisking continuously.
- The sauce will become thick, creamy, and luxuriously rich. Make sure to whisk constantly to avoid the eggs from curdling.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Once the sauce reaches your desired thickness, remove it from the heat and taste for seasoning. You can add a pinch of salt if needed, but the butter and mustard often provide enough flavor.
- Keep Warm:
- To keep the hollandaise sauce warm until ready to serve, simply place it over a warm (not hot) water bath and stir occasionally.
Serve the Casserole
- Portion and Plate:
- Cut the baked casserole into squares and transfer each portion to individual plates.
- Top with Hollandaise Sauce:
- Generously spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over each serving.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Sprinkle with minced chives for a burst of fresh flavor and beautiful presentation.
You’re done! This rich and satisfying dish is ready to be enjoyed. But let’s talk about the best ways to serve it to make your breakfast or brunch experience even better.
How to Serve
Serving your Eggs Benedict Casserole is all about presentation and complementary sides that enhance the experience. Here are some suggestions for serving it up in style:
- As-Is: This casserole is absolutely delicious on its own, topped with hollandaise sauce and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
- Paired with Fresh Greens: Serve it alongside a simple arugula or mixed greens salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, tomatoes, or even sautéed spinach make fantastic side dishes to pair with this casserole.
- Over Toasted Bread: For an extra indulgent touch, you can serve the casserole over a slice of toasted bread or even a toasted croissant.
- With Fresh Fruit: A platter of sliced fresh fruit like melons, berries, and grapes adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- For Brunch Spreads: If you’re serving this as part of a larger brunch spread, it pairs beautifully with items like crispy turkey bacon, breakfast potatoes, and fluffy pancakes.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s versatile enough to be the star of the show or a part of a more elaborate breakfast or brunch feast.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairing your Eggs Benedict Casserole with the right drinks and sides can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Here are some ideas:
Beverage Pairings:
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: The brightness of citrus cuts through the richness of the hollandaise sauce perfectly.
- Coffee or Latte: A rich, creamy coffee pairs beautifully with the buttery flavors of the casserole.
- Herbal Tea: A mint or chamomile tea offers a soothing balance to the dish’s rich flavors.
Side Dish Pairings:
- Hash Browns or Home Fries: Crispy potatoes add a delightful textural contrast.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus bring a healthy and colorful touch.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries, oranges, and grapes provides a refreshing and naturally sweet side.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delightful casserole, it’s good to know how to properly store, freeze, and reheat any leftovers. Plus, I’ll give you tips on how to prep this dish in advance to make your life even easier.
Storing Leftovers:
- If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing the Casserole:
If you want to prepare this casserole well in advance or save leftovers for a future meal, freezing is an excellent option.
- To Freeze the Entire Casserole (Unbaked):
- Prepare the casserole as instructed, but don’t bake it yet.
- Wrap the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil.
- Label the dish with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
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To Freeze Baked Casserole:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Cut it into individual portions and wrap each portion in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
Whether you’ve refrigerated or frozen your casserole, reheating it properly ensures it stays delicious and satisfying.
- Reheating From the Refrigerator:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the casserole (or individual portions) in an oven-safe dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Heat for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove the foil for the last few minutes of heating if you prefer a slightly crisp top.
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Reheating From Frozen:
- If reheating the entire casserole, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.
- If you’re reheating individual frozen portions, you can do so straight from the freezer.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat covered portions for about 30–40 minutes, or until fully warmed through.
- Reheating the Hollandaise Sauce:
- Since the hollandaise sauce can separate when reheated, it’s best to make it fresh if possible.
- However, if you must reheat it, do so gently over low heat, whisking constantly. Adding a splash of warm water or heavy cream can help restore its smooth texture.
The fact that you can easily store, freeze, and reheat this casserole makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, holidays, or simply having a special breakfast ready to go anytime.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this Eggs Benedict Casserole is straightforward to make, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them:
1. Skipping the Overnight Refrigeration:
- Allowing the casserole to sit overnight in the refrigerator is crucial for the English muffins to soak up the egg mixture completely. Skipping this step will result in dry or unevenly cooked portions.
2. Not Covering the Casserole During Baking:
- The initial baking phase with foil helps the eggs cook gently and evenly. If you skip this step, you risk ending up with a dry or rubbery texture.
3. Overcooking the Hollandaise Sauce:
- Hollandaise sauce is delicate and requires low, consistent heat. Overheating can cause the eggs to scramble and ruin the texture. Always use a double boiler and whisk constantly.
4. Using Too Much Heat When Reheating the Sauce:
- Hollandaise sauce is notorious for separating if reheated improperly. Always reheat it slowly over low heat, and whisk continuously for best results.
5. Not Letting the Casserole Rest Before Serving:
- Giving the casserole about 10 minutes to rest after baking allows the eggs to firm up, making it much easier to cut cleanly into squares.
6. Using Low-Quality Butter for the Sauce:
- Since the hollandaise sauce is heavily butter-based, high-quality butter makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for a good-quality unsalted butter for the best results.
7. Forgetting to Taste and Adjust:
- Before serving the hollandaise sauce, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes a pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lemon juice can make all the difference.
Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll have a beautifully cooked casserole every single time. Now, let’s talk about some helpful tips that can make this dish even better.
Pro Tips
These pro tips will take your Eggs Benedict Casserole from delicious to absolutely unforgettable.
1. Use Fresh English Muffins:
- For the best texture, use fresh English muffins instead of stale ones. This ensures they soak up the egg mixture properly without becoming overly soggy.
2. Toast the English Muffins for Extra Flavor:
- If you like a little more texture, lightly toast the English muffin pieces before adding them to the casserole. This gives them a slightly crisp edge that holds up beautifully during baking.
3. Customize with Vegetables:
- Add chopped spinach, sautéed bell peppers, or even caramelized onions for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook them first to avoid adding excess moisture.
4. Don’t Overmix the Eggs:
- When preparing the egg mixture, whisk until just combined. Overmixing can create a tough, rubbery texture once baked.
5. Add a Little Spice if Desired:
- If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the hollandaise sauce or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
6. Make the Hollandaise Sauce Just Before Serving:
- For the best texture and flavor, prepare the sauce right before serving the casserole.
7. Keep It Warm:
- If you’re serving a crowd, you can keep the baked casserole warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.
8. Serve with Garnishes:
- Fresh minced chives, parsley, or even thinly sliced green onions add a lovely touch of freshness and color to the dish.
Following these tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality breakfast casserole that everyone will rave about.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When making a dish like Eggs Benedict Casserole, it’s common to run into a few questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked ones along with helpful answers to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly.
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Making this casserole ahead of time is one of its biggest advantages. You can prepare the entire dish the night before and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and enjoy a stress-free brunch.
2. Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Canadian Bacon?
Absolutely! You can swap the Canadian bacon with regular turkey or beef bacon if you prefer. Just cook and crumble the bacon before adding it to the casserole. The flavor will be slightly different, but still deliciously smoky and savory.
3. Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the English muffins with your favorite gluten-free English muffins or bread. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the mustard, are gluten-free if needed.
4. How Do I Prevent the Hollandaise Sauce From Separating?
The key to a smooth, creamy hollandaise sauce is gentle heat and constant whisking. If the sauce starts to separate, whisking in a small splash of warm water or heavy cream can help bring it back together. Also, avoid reheating the sauce over high heat.
5. Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even asparagus work well. Just sauté them first to reduce moisture and enhance their flavor before adding them to the casserole.
6. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350°F. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you’re reheating individual portions, you can use the microwave, but the texture will be best when reheated in the oven.
7. Can I Freeze This Casserole After Baking?
Yes, you can. If you have leftovers or want to make the casserole ahead of time, simply freeze it in individual portions or as a whole. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until warmed through.
8. Can I Make the Hollandaise Sauce in Advance?
While it’s best to make the hollandaise sauce right before serving, you can prepare it in advance if needed. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. To reheat, place it over low heat and whisk constantly to restore its creamy texture.
9. What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream in the Hollandaise Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy, but it will still taste great.
10. What If I Don’t Have a Double Boiler for Making the Sauce?
No problem! You can use a heatproof glass or metal bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Just make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. The indirect heat will gently cook the egg yolks without scrambling them.
Now that we’ve covered all the bases, it’s time to wrap things up.
Conclusion & Call to Action
And there you have it—a luxurious, comforting, and downright delicious Eggs Benedict Casserole with creamy Hollandaise Sauce. Whether you’re making this for a special brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or even a holiday gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You can prepare it ahead of time, which makes hosting a breeze. And the flavor? Pure indulgence. From the fluffy, custard-soaked English muffins to the smoky Canadian bacon and rich, buttery hollandaise, every bite is a little piece of heaven.
Now, I’d love to hear how your casserole turns out! Are you planning to add some veggies? Maybe spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper? Whatever you decide, I’m sure it’ll be fantastic.
When you make this recipe, don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on social media. Tag me so I can see your amazing creations! And if you have any questions or tips of your own, drop them in the comments below.
Happy cooking, and may your next breakfast or brunch be as dreamy as ever!
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Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce – Easy Breakfast Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (Plus overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Eggs Benedict Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce is a rich and comforting breakfast casserole perfect for brunch gatherings or special weekends. Made with English muffins, Canadian bacon, and creamy eggs, topped with velvety hollandaise sauce, this make-ahead dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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Casserole:
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12 oz Canadian bacon, chopped
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6 English muffins, split and cut into 1-inch pieces
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8 large eggs
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2 cups 2% milk
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/4 tsp paprika
Hollandaise Sauce:
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4 large egg yolks
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1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1/2 cup butter, melted
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Minced chives (optional, for garnish)
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Instructions
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Prepare the Casserole:
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Grease a 3-quart or 13×9-inch baking dish. Layer half the Canadian bacon, followed by English muffin pieces and the remaining bacon.
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In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, onion powder, and paprika. Pour over the layered dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
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Bake the Casserole:
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Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove dish from the refrigerator. Sprinkle with paprika.
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Bake covered for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the center is set. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
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Make the Hollandaise Sauce:
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In a double boiler, whisk egg yolks, heavy cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until thickened (about 5 minutes).
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Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in melted butter until smooth.
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Serve:
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Cut the casserole into squares, spoon hollandaise sauce over each serving, and garnish with minced chives if desired.
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Notes
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For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free English muffins.
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Add cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
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Prepare the casserole the night before for easy, stress-free baking in the morning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (Plus overnight refrigeration)
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
