There’s nothing quite like the warm, savory aroma of French toast sizzling on the skillet, especially when it’s spiced up with cheese and fresh herbs. This Savory French Toast Recipe takes a classic breakfast dish to the next level, transforming simple ingredients into a deliciously comforting meal. It takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish and adds a delightful twist with its savory flavors that work perfectly for any meal of the day.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to shake up their breakfast routine or serve a unique brunch option. It’s versatile enough for weekday meals or leisurely weekends. You can prepare the custard up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge, making the cooking process even faster when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delivers a rich, custardy interior thanks to the egg-soaked, thick bread.
- Features a delightful blend of cheese and herbs for a burst of savory flavor.
- Results in perfectly crispy edges that contrast beautifully with a soft center.
- Versatile enough to serve any time of day, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients for a delightful savory treat:
For the Custard
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream
- ½ cup (about 50g) grated hard or semi-hard cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, sharp Cheddar, Pecorino Romano recommended)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, thyme, or a mix) or 2 teaspoons dried herbs
- 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)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil (or a combination)
Use slightly stale bread for better absorption.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Swap cheese for a non-dairy alternative.
- Use almond or soy milk instead of cream.
- Replace fresh herbs with your favorite dried ones.
- Combine different cheeses for unique flavors.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your savory delight.
1. Prepare the Bread
If your bread isn’t slightly stale, lightly toast the slices or let them air-dry on a wire rack for an hour to enhance absorption without sogginess.
2. Whisk the Custard
In a wide, shallow dish, crack the 3 large eggs. Whisk them thoroughly until smooth and no streaks remain.
3. Combine Ingredients
Pour the ½ cup of milk into the whisked eggs and whisk until combined. Add the cheese, herbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk until distributed and taste to adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Soak the Bread
Gently place a slice of bread into the custard mixture. Let it soak for 20-30 seconds per side, ensuring it absorbs the custard without disintegrating. Repeat with remaining slices just before cooking.
5. Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil. Allow it to melt or shimmer.
6. Cook the Toast
Lift a soaked slice from the custard, letting excess drip off, and place it in the hot skillet. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Reduce heat if necessary to ensure thorough cooking.
7. Keep Warm (if needed)
If cooking in batches, keep the cooked pieces warm on a wire rack in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C) to maintain crispness.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: No, it doesn’t hold up well.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Tips for Best Results
- Use thick-cut bread to maintain structure during cooking.
- Rotate bread pieces in the custard for even coating.
- Monitor the skillet temperature closely to achieve perfect browning.
- Experiment with different cheese and herb combinations for unique flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light salad for a hearty lunch.
- Serve with fresh fruit for a colorful brunch plate.
- Enjoy topped with a fried egg for a protein-rich dinner option.
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