Savory French Toast Recipe

Savory French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, perfect for any meal of the day. This recipe combines hearty bread with a rich custard made from eggs, milk, and cheese, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish. Whether you’re enjoying it for brunch or a cozy dinner, this Savory French Toast Recipe is versatile enough to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of cheese and fresh herbs elevates this dish to a new level of taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with salads or soups for a complete meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and herbs to suit your preferences.
• Satisfying: Rich, creamy, and filling—perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your Savory French Toast, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or griddle
• Whisk
• Shallow dish or pie plate
• Spatula
• Wire rack (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or griddle: A good non-stick surface ensures even cooking and easy flipping.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the custard ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth texture.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping the toast without breaking it apart.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• Bread: 6 thick slices (about 1-inch thick) of sturdy bread (such as Brioche, Challah, Sourdough, or good quality white sandwich bread).

For the Custard

• Eggs: 3 large eggs.
• Milk or Cream: ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream.

For the Cheese

• Cheese: ½ cup (about 50g) grated hard or semi-hard cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, sharp Cheddar, Pecorino Romano recommended).

For Freshness

• Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, thyme, or a mix). Alternatively, use 2 teaspoons dried herbs.

For Seasoning

• Salt: ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste).
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
• Garlic Powder: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional).
• Onion Powder: ¼ teaspoon onion powder (optional).
• Paprika: Pinch of paprika or smoked paprika (optional).

For Cooking

• Butter or Oil: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil (or a combination).

How to Make Savory French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread

1. If your bread isn’t slightly stale, lightly toast the slices in a toaster or lay them out on a wire rack for an hour. This helps them absorb the custard without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture

1. In a wide shallow dish like a pie plate, crack the eggs and whisk until combined.
2. Add the milk (or cream/half-and-half) to the eggs and whisk until smooth.
3. Mix in cheese, herbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), onion powder (if using), and paprika (if using). Whisk until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Soak the Bread Slices

1. Gently place one slice of bread into the custard mixture for about 20-30 seconds on each side. Ensure it absorbs enough custard but doesn’t fall apart.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil; let it melt completely before adding bread slices.
2. Place soaked bread into the hot skillet without overcrowding.
3. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Keep Warm & Serve

1. If cooking in batches, keep cooked French toast warm on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a low oven at around 200°F (90°C).
2. Serve immediately while warm and crisp!

Enjoy your delicious Savory French Toast as part of any meal!

How to Serve Savory French Toast Recipe

Savory French Toast is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or even a quick dinner, the serving options are endless.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the toast.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed with garlic for a nutritious side that complements the savory flavors.

Topped with Avocado

• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices on top add healthy fats and a buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the toast.
• Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole brings extra flavor and creaminess, enhancing every bite.

With Additional Protein

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Thinly sliced grilled chicken provides a lean protein boost, making it more filling for lunch or dinner.
• Turkey Bacon: Crispy turkey bacon offers a smoky crunch without using any pork products.

Finished with Sauces

• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce adds spice and complexity to each bite.
• Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of yogurt mixed with fresh herbs creates a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

How to Perfect Savory French Toast Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Savory French Toast, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy. If it’s fresh, lightly toast it before soaking.
• Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure your eggs are well-whisked for a smooth custard; this helps evenly coat the bread for perfect cooking.
• Monitor Heat Levels: Keep your skillet at medium heat. Too high will burn the outside while leaving the inside soggy.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy toast.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow cooked French toast to rest on a wire rack in a low oven. This keeps them crisp while you finish cooking other slices.
• Experiment with Cheese: Don’t hesitate to mix different cheeses for added depth of flavor!

Best Side Dishes for Savory French Toast Recipe

Pairing side dishes can elevate your Savory French Toast experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and freshness to balance savory flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini roasted until tender provide color and nutrition.
3. Potato Hash: Crispy potato hash seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty side that complements the rich toast.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
5. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is comforting and pairs beautifully with savory flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber slices tossed in vinegar create a refreshing contrast to the richness of French toast.
7. Quinoa Salad: Protein-packed quinoa mixed with vegetables and herbs offers an energizing side full of texture and flavor.
8. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide a sweet-savory element that pairs well with cheesy toast delights.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Savory French Toast Recipe can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using fresh bread: Fresh bread can become too mushy when soaked. Opt for slightly stale or toasted bread for better absorption without disintegration.
• Not whisking eggs thoroughly: Failing to fully combine the eggs can result in uneven custard. Whisk until smooth to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
• Soaking bread too long: Over-soaking can make the bread fall apart. Aim for 20-30 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb enough custard while retaining its shape.
• Cooking at too high a heat: High heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium heat to achieve a golden crust and ensure the center is cooked through.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many slices at once can lead to steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches, allowing each slice enough space for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Savory French Toast in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Savory French Toast Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating Savory French Toast Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (about 30 seconds) until hot, being cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a little butter or oil if desired, until crispy on the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Savory French Toast Recipe:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or gouda based on your taste preference.

How do I make a vegan version of this Savory French Toast Recipe?

You can substitute eggs with a mixture of plant-based milk and ground flaxseed or chickpea flour and use non-dairy cheese alternatives.

What is the best type of bread for this recipe?

Thick-cut breads such as Brioche, Challah, or Sourdough work best due to their structure and ability to hold up during soaking.

Can I add vegetables to my Savory French Toast Recipe?

Absolutely! Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the custard mixture or as toppings after cooking.

How can I customize my Savory French Toast Recipe?

Add your favorite herbs, spices, or even hot sauce for an extra kick. You could also top with avocado or a poached egg for additional flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Savory French Toast Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional breakfast dishes that seamlessly transitions into lunch or dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients based on what you have available. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with different cheeses and herbs!