Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of a Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dish transforms the classic sweet breakfast into a savory masterpiece, perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or craving a comforting breakfast for dinner, this recipe combines the fluffy texture of French toast with the rich flavors of herbs and cheese, making it a standout among brunch recipes.
If you’re tired of the same old savory breakfast options, this egg bake offers a fresh twist. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it one of the best breakfast ideas for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up stale bread while creating a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step to create this mouthwatering French toast casserole. From the ingredients to the preparation, you’ll have everything you need to impress your family or guests with a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive into this savory sensation!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8
What You’ll Need
Creating a perfect Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a vital role in building flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters:
- Stale Bread: The base of this French toast casserole, stale bread soaks up the egg mixture without becoming soggy, providing structure and a custardy texture.
- Eggs: The binding agent that creates the rich, fluffy consistency of this egg bake.
- Milk or Cream: Adds creaminess to the mixture, ensuring the bake isn’t dry.
- Cottage Cheese: A protein-packed addition that brings a subtle tang and creamy texture, making this a standout among cottage cheese recipes savory style.
- Shredded Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, adding depth and indulgence.
- Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor profile with aromatic notes, making this a true savory breakfast dish.
- Seasonings: Simple spices like salt, pepper, and garlic powder tie all the flavors together.
Discover the fresh elements behind a comforting Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake
INGREDIENTS
- – 8 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French or sourdough works best)
- – 6 large eggs
- – 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- – 1 cup cottage cheese
- – 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- – ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- – 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- – 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- – ½ teaspoon salt
- – ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- – 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the dish)
PREPARATION
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cottage cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, stirring gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, and thyme, mixing evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil after 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake warm!
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 17g
Why Choose a Savory Breakfast?
For those who prefer a break from sugary morning meals, a savory breakfast like this French toast casserole offers a satisfying alternative. It’s packed with protein from eggs and cheese, keeping you fuller for longer, and the herbs add a burst of flavor that feels gourmet without extra effort.
Pairing with Breakfast Potatoes
Elevate your meal by serving this bake alongside crispy breakfast potatoes. The contrast of the fluffy, cheesy casserole with the crunchy, seasoned potatoes creates a well-rounded breakfast brunch experience that’s sure to impress.
Make-Ahead Tips for Brunch Recipes
One of the best things about this Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake is its make-ahead potential. Assemble the dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, simply pop it in the oven for a stress-free addition to your brunch recipes lineup.
Customizing Your Egg Bake
This egg bake is incredibly versatile. Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, add sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or toss in cooked bacon for extra savoriness. Tailor it to your taste for endless breakfast ideas.
Healthier Twists for Breakfasts
Looking for healthy breakfasts? Use whole-grain bread, reduce the cheese slightly, or opt for low-fat milk. These small changes maintain the flavor while making this dish a bit lighter for everyday enjoyment.
Breakfast for Dinner Ideas
Who says breakfast has to be a morning meal? This breakfast for dinner option is perfect for cozy evenings. Serve with a simple side salad to balance the richness, and you’ve got a comforting meal any time of day.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
While stale bread is ideal for soaking up the egg mixture without becoming mushy, you can use fresh bread in a pinch. Lightly toast the cubes in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to dry them out before assembling your Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven to maintain the texture of this delicious French toast casserole.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this egg bake freezes well! Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
What other herbs can I use?
If you don’t have chives or thyme, try rosemary, parsley, or even a pinch of dried herbs. Each will bring a unique flair to your savory breakfast, so feel free to experiment with what’s on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Absolutely! This Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for gatherings. Double the recipe and use a larger baking dish if you’re hosting a bigger breakfast brunch event.
Savor the comforting flavors of this cheesy French toast bake at your next brunch!
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about digging into a warm, cheesy slice of Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast Bake. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table, whether you’re enjoying it as part of your morning routine or as a unique breakfast for dinner option. With its blend of hearty bread, creamy eggs, and aromatic herbs, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your collection of brunch recipes. So, why not give it a try this weekend? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the magic happen!
If you’ve loved this recipe or have any twists of your own to share, I’d love to hear about it in the comments below. For more inspiring breakfast ideas and healthy breakfasts, be sure to explore other recipes on the blog or check out related content at our recipe hub. Happy cooking!
