A step-by-step guide to mastering the classic brunch favorite with easy variations and foolproof Hollandaise sauce.
There’s something undeniably luxurious about slicing into a perfectly poached egg atop a toasted English muffin, layered with savory Canadian bacon and silky, lemony Hollandaise sauce. Eggs Benedict is more than just a dish—it’s a brunch experience. And while it may seem like the kind of meal reserved for upscale cafés and weekend indulgence, this Easy Eggs Benedict Recipe proves you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen—no chef hat required.
Whether you’re planning a cozy Sunday brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just elevating your morning, this guide walks you through each step with clarity and ease. From a no-fail Easy Hollandaise Sauce to inventive twists like Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, we’ve got all your brunch cravings covered.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-quality results at home
- Foolproof blender Hollandaise
- Customizable with different proteins or vegetarian options
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or a romantic morning in
- Make-ahead tips for easy entertaining
📜 History of Eggs Benedict
The origins of Eggs Benedict date back to the late 19th century. The most widely accepted story credits a hungover Lemuel Benedict, who in 1894, ordered toast, poached eggs, crisp bacon, and a side of Hollandaise sauce at the Waldorf Hotel in New York. The maître d’hôtel was so impressed, he added a version to the menu using English muffins and Canadian bacon. Thus, the iconic dish was born and has since evolved into many different types of Eggs Benedict.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2, Makes 4 Eggs Benedict)
🍳 For the Eggs Benedict Base:
- 2 English muffins, halved and toasted
- 4 large eggs (the fresher, the better)
- 4 slices Canadian bacon or smoked ham
- Optional: chopped parsley, chives, or paprika for garnish
🍋 For the Easy Hollandaise Sauce:
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and hot
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika (optional, for a kick)
🍽 How to Make Easy Eggs Benedict at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Easy Hollandaise Sauce
Traditional Hollandaise requires careful whisking and a double boiler, but this blender method simplifies everything while still producing a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Add egg yolks and lemon juice to a blender. Blend on medium speed for about 30 seconds until slightly thick and pale.
- With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the hot melted butter. The sauce will emulsify and become velvety smooth.
- Season with a pinch of salt and cayenne.
- Keep warm by placing the blender jar in a bowl of warm water. Do not reheat directly or the eggs may curdle.
🔥 Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor in your Easy Hollandaise Sauce.
Step 2: Toast the Muffins
Split and toast your English muffins until golden brown and crispy. This will provide a sturdy base to soak up the runny yolks and rich sauce without going soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon or Ham
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Canadian bacon slices and cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, until warmed through and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Poach the Eggs Like a Pro
Perfectly poached eggs are the heart of any good Benedict.
- Fill a wide saucepan with 3 inches of water. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar (optional but helps egg whites firm up).
- Crack each egg into a small ramekin.
- Swirl the water gently, then slide the egg into the center.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes or until whites are set but yolks remain soft.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
Step 5: Assemble the Eggs Benedict
- Place two muffin halves on each plate.
- Top with a slice of Canadian bacon.
- Add a poached egg on top of each.
- Generously spoon Hollandaise sauce over each egg.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
🧠 Pro Tips for Foolproof Eggs Benedict
- Fresh eggs = better poached texture. The whites stay tighter.
- Don’t boil your poaching water. A gentle simmer ensures even cooking.
- Keep Hollandaise warm by using a thermos or bowl of warm water.
- For a healthier twist, use turkey bacon, or go vegetarian with avocado or greens.
🍴 Creative Variations: Different Types of Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict is a template you can customize in endless ways. Here are some of the most popular and tasty variations:
🐟 Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict (Eggs Royale)
Swap the bacon for silky smoked salmon and garnish with fresh dill or capers. The salty richness of salmon pairs beautifully with the buttery Hollandaise.
Perfect for seafood lovers and weekend brunch.
🌿 Eggs Florentine
Replace the meat with garlicky sautéed spinach. This vegetarian-friendly version is rich, green, and full of flavor.
🥑 Avocado & Tomato Benedict
Layer avocado slices and cherry tomato halves under your poached eggs. Light, healthy, and full of creamy texture.
🧀 Benedict with Brie & Prosciutto
Melt a slice of brie onto the toasted muffin and top with crisped prosciutto. Ultra-decadent and ideal for special occasions.
🍳 Eggs Benedict Casserole (Inspired by Taste of Home)
Hosting a brunch? Prepare a baked Eggs Benedict Casserole. Layer toasted muffin pieces, ham, and a simple egg custard. Bake, then serve with warm Hollandaise on the side.
⏱ Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips
- Poach in advance: Poach the eggs, place in ice water, and refrigerate. Reheat in warm water just before serving.
- Prep Hollandaise early: It can be kept warm in a thermos for up to an hour or gently reheated with a splash of water.
- Bake your bacon in the oven for hands-off cooking.
- Toast muffins ahead and re-crisp in a warm oven.
🍓 What to Serve with Eggs Benedict
Complete your brunch with these sides:
- Crispy hash browns or roasted baby potatoes
- Fresh fruit salad
- Buttery croissants
- Mimosa, Bloody Mary, or fresh squeezed orange juice
- Light green salad with lemon vinaigrette
🔁 Diet-Friendly Modifications
- Keto / Low-Carb: Replace English muffins with cloud bread or grilled portobello mushrooms.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk in your Hollandaise.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free muffins or toast alternatives.
- Vegan: Use tofu “eggs” and vegan Hollandaise made from cashews or soy milk.
📊 Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving – Classic Version)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~425 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Total Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 950mg |
Nutritional content will vary based on substitutions or additions like smoked salmon or avocado.
🧾 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Hollandaise without a blender?
Yes! You can use a whisk and a double boiler, but the blender method is quicker and more reliable for beginners.
Can I freeze Eggs Benedict?
Not recommended, as poached eggs and Hollandaise don’t freeze well. But you can prep ingredients separately ahead of time.
Can I serve it cold?
Eggs Benedict is best served warm. Cold poached eggs and sauce lose their appeal.
How do I fix a broken Hollandaise?
If your sauce splits, whisk in a tablespoon of warm water or lemon juice slowly until it comes back together.
📌 Final Thoughts
The perfect Easy Eggs Benedict Recipe is now within your reach. From mastering the poached egg to blending the perfect Hollandaise, you’ll be creating brunch magic in no time. Plus, with so many delicious variations like Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, Eggs Florentine, or even a crowd-pleasing Eggs Benedict Casserole, there’s a version to suit every mood and dietary preference.
Whether you’re making it for yourself, a loved one, or a weekend gathering, Eggs Benedict is the kind of dish that never fails to impress.
