Savory French Toast Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome, then this Savory French Toast Recipe is just what you need! This dish has taken a special spot in my heart (and stomach) because it’s incredibly versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend brunch with family, this savory twist on the classic French toast will surely impress everyone at the table.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly delicious that warms the soul. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up stale bread while treating yourself to something delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a tasty meal fast.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the custard mixture in advance so all you have to do is soak the bread when you’re ready to cook.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheese and herbs creates a rich, savory taste that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
• Endless Variations: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Savory French Toast Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the French Toast

• Bread: 6 thick slices (about 1-inch thick) of sturdy bread (such as Brioche, Challah, Sourdough, or a good quality white sandwich bread).
• Eggs: 3 large eggs.
• Milk or Cream: ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream.
• Cheese: ½ cup (about 50g) grated hard or semi-hard cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, sharp Cheddar, Pecorino Romano recommended).
• Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, thyme, or a mix). Alternatively, use 2 teaspoons dried herbs.
• Seasonings:
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste).
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional).
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder (optional).
• Pinch of paprika or smoked paprika (optional).
• Butter or Oil: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil (or a combination) for cooking.

Variations

One of the best parts about this Savory French Toast Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Protein: Throw in cooked bacon alternatives like turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta for a tangy twist or mozzarella for extra meltiness.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes into the custard mixture for a little heat!
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Make Savory French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread

If your bread isn’t slightly stale yet, lightly toast the slices in a toaster or lay them out on a wire rack for an hour or two. This helps them absorb the custard without becoming too mushy. Uniformly thick slices (around 1 inch) are key to achieving that perfect custardy center.

Step 2: Whisk Together Custard Ingredients

In a wide dish—like a pie plate—crack those three large eggs and whisk them thoroughly until no streaks remain. Then pour in your milk or cream and whisk again until smooth. Add in the grated cheese and chopped herbs along with salt and spices. Mixing vigorously ensures every slice gets that delicious flavor!

Step 3: Soak the Bread Slices

Gently place one slice of bread into your custard mixture. Let it soak for about 20-30 seconds per side. The goal is to saturate without turning it into mush! Repeat with remaining slices just before cooking; this keeps them from getting too soggy.

Step 4: Heat Your Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil—allow it to melt completely before adding any soaked bread slices. A hot pan ensures proper browning without burning; we want crispy outsides and fluffy insides!

Step 5: Cook Until Golden Brown

Carefully lift each soaked slice from the custard mixture and place it gently into the skillet. Cook each slice for about 3-5 minutes per side until they are deep golden brown and crispy. Resist moving them around too much at first; let them form that beautiful crust!

Step 6: Keep Warm While Cooking Batches

If you’re making multiple slices at once, keep cooked Savory French Toast warm by placing them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F /90°C). This way they stay crisp while you finish cooking!

Step 7: Serve Fresh!

Savory French Toast is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while it’s warm and crisp. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings—think more cheese sprinkled on top or even some fresh herbs!

With these steps laid out clearly—and some delicious flavors waiting—you’re all set to make your own delightful Savory French Toast! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Savory French Toast Recipe

Making the perfect Savory French Toast is all about technique and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delightful every time!

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for thick, sturdy bread that can soak up the custard without disintegrating. This ensures a creamy interior with a lovely crust.
• Whisk Thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk together until fully combined. This helps create a smooth custard that coats each slice evenly, leading to consistent flavor throughout.
• Soak Wisely: Allow each slice to soak just long enough to absorb the custard but not too long that it falls apart. This balance is key to achieving that perfectly custardy center.
• Control Your Heat: Cooking on medium heat allows for a golden-brown exterior while ensuring the inside is cooked through. Too high heat may burn the outside before the inside is done.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix different cheeses or herbs based on your preference! This can add new flavor dimensions and keep the dish exciting every time you make it.

How to Serve Savory French Toast Recipe

Serving your Savory French Toast can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chives, parsley, or thyme on top adds a pop of color and enhances flavor.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving gives an aromatic kick.
• Shaved cheese: Add some extra shaved cheese on top while serving for an indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the French toast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus bring color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the savory flavors.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole offer healthy fats that pair wonderfully with the toast’s texture and flavor profile.
• Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote (like apple or berry) can add a sweet touch that balances out all those savory notes beautifully.

Enjoy your delicious creation! Whether it’s brunch with friends or a cozy dinner at home, this Savory French Toast is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory French Toast Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious breakfasts or brunches throughout the week without much fuss. You can easily prepare it in advance, store it, and even freeze portions for a quick meal later on.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked Savory French Toast to cool completely.
• Place leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Make sure the Savory French Toast is fully cooled.
• Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen slices into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat until both sides are warm and crispy.
• Microwave reheating is possible but may result in a softer texture; cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Savory French Toast Recipe that might help you along the way!

Can I make this Savory French Toast Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free bread as a substitute. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold up during soaking.

How long can I store leftovers from the Savory French Toast Recipe?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to 2 months.

What variations can I try with this Savory French Toast Recipe?

Feel free to mix different types of cheese or herbs according to your taste! Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition.

Can I use non-dairy milk for this Savory French Toast Recipe?

Yes! Non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or oat milk work well. Just keep in mind that they may slightly alter the final texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Savory French Toast Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a delightful dish; it’s versatile and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting friends, this recipe is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and create some delicious memories in your kitchen!