Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Eggs Benedict recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. It offers a restaurant-quality breakfast or brunch experience right at home. The recipe is approachable, quick to make, and doesn’t require any fancy tools. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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English muffins
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Sliced beef or turkey ham
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Eggs
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White vinegar (for poaching the eggs)
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Butter
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Egg yolks
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Lemon juice
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Salt
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Cayenne pepper or paprika (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Make the hollandaise sauce: In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks with lemon juice. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), whisking constantly. Slowly add melted butter and continue whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and a pinch of cayenne if using. Keep warm.
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Toast the English muffins: Slice the muffins in half and toast until golden and crisp.
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Cook the sliced meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the slices of beef or turkey ham for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
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Poach the eggs: Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer and add a splash of white vinegar. Crack an egg into a small bowl, then gently slide it into the water. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the whites are set and the yolk is still soft. Repeat for remaining eggs.
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Assemble the Eggs Benedict: Place two muffin halves on a plate. Top each with a slice of the cooked meat, a poached egg, and a generous spoonful of hollandaise sauce.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with paprika or cayenne if desired, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings (4 halves).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Smoked salmon Benedict: Substitute the meat with smoked salmon for a luxurious twist.
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Florentine Benedict: Add sautéed spinach under the egg for extra greens.
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Avocado Benedict: Replace the meat with avocado slices for a vegetarian option.
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Crab cake Benedict: Swap out the muffin and meat for a crab cake base.
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Southern-style: Use a biscuit instead of an English muffin and top with a creamy sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Eggs Benedict is best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to manage leftovers:
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Storage: Store the components separately in airtight containers. The hollandaise sauce should be refrigerated and used within 1–2 days.
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Reheating: Gently reheat the hollandaise over a double boiler while whisking. Toast the muffins fresh, and reheat the meat in a skillet. Eggs are best poached fresh, but can be briefly reheated in warm water for about 30 seconds.
FAQs
What is Eggs Benedict made of?
Eggs Benedict traditionally includes toasted English muffins, sliced meat, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe works great with beef or turkey slices. Use what suits your preference or dietary needs.
How do I stop hollandaise from curdling?
Keep the heat low and whisk constantly. If the sauce starts to separate, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to bring it back together.
Can I make hollandaise sauce in a blender?
Yes, you can make it in a blender for a faster and easier version. Just blend the yolks and lemon juice, then slowly add hot melted butter while blending.
What’s the best way to poach an egg?
Use fresh eggs, gently simmering water, and a splash of vinegar. Crack the egg into a small bowl before sliding it into the water to help maintain its shape.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The hollandaise sauce and meat can be made ahead, but the eggs and muffins are best prepared right before serving.
Is Eggs Benedict healthy?
It’s a rich and indulgent dish, higher in fat due to the hollandaise and butter. It can be made lighter with lean meats and less sauce.
Can I freeze hollandaise sauce?
No, hollandaise does not freeze well. It can separate and lose its texture when thawed.
What can I use instead of lemon juice in hollandaise?
White wine vinegar is a suitable substitute if you don’t have lemon juice on hand.
How do I keep poached eggs warm?
Place poached eggs in a bowl of warm water (not boiling) until ready to serve. This keeps them soft without overcooking.
Conclusion
Easy Eggs Benedict is the perfect dish to elevate your breakfast or brunch with minimal stress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a satisfying, elegant meal that feels like a treat. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the tasty variations, this recipe is sure to impress.
