If you are looking to elevate your breakfast or brunch game, the Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish combines the comforting, golden crispiness of traditional French toast with a rich, cheesy, and herbaceous twist that will make your taste buds sing. Imagine thick slices of sourdough or brioche soaked in a fragrant egg mixture blended with Parmesan and fresh herbs, then pan-fried to perfection. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any time you want something a little special but still easy enough to whip up on a busy morning or relaxed weekend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the creamy Parmesan to the punch of fresh herbs, each component is essential to making this dish shine.
- Thick-cut bread (4 slices): Sourdough or brioche works beautifully for its sturdy texture and ability to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
- Large eggs (3): The base of the custard, providing richness and helping hold the ingredients together.
- Milk (1/3 cup): Adds creaminess to the egg mixture, ensuring a tender, soft inside.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons): Brings a sharp, salty depth that transforms this toast into something special.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a savory warmth and complexity without overpowering.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick that enhances the herbs.
- Chopped fresh herbs (1 tablespoon): Parsley, chives, or thyme add vibrant freshness and color.
- Butter or oil (1 tablespoon): For frying, it ensures a golden, crispy exterior with rich flavor.
- Optional toppings: Avocado slices, sautéed mushrooms, fried egg, or hot sauce add exciting and customizable finishing touches.
How to Make Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Begin by whisking together the eggs, milk, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs in a shallow bowl. This mixture is the heart of your savory French toast, offering a perfect balance of creaminess, cheesy tang, and herbal brightness.
Step 2: Preheat Your Skillet
Heat the butter or oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. The right temperature is crucial to getting that golden crust without burning; medium heat allows for even cooking and a beautifully crisp exterior.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Take each slice of bread and immerse it fully in the egg mixture, coating both sides generously. Let the excess drip off before placing it in the skillet, ensuring the bread soaks up the flavors without becoming soggy.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Place the soaked bread slices in the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden brown crust that’s crispy to the touch but still tender inside. Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter or oil as needed.
Step 5: Serve While Warm
Serve the Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe immediately with your favorite savory toppings or sides to enjoy maximum flavor and texture.
How to Serve Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish opens up a world of delightful possibilities. Avocado slices bring creamy richness that complements the salty Parmesan, while sautéed mushrooms add an earthy bite. A fried egg on top with a runny yolk elevates the protein content and richness, and a few dashes of hot sauce can brighten and spice things up if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
Pairing this savory French toast with fresh greens or a crisp tomato salad balances out the richness. Roasted cherry tomatoes offer a sweet and acidic contrast, while a simple side of crispy bacon or sausage enhances the savoriness and rounds out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread to impress, stack the savory French toast slices with alternating layers of sliced avocado and herb sprigs. You can also cut the toast into fingers and serve as appetizers with an herby yogurt dip or alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent sogginess, lay pieces flat without stacking to maintain their crisp texture as much as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked savory French toast by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month, making it super convenient for a ready-made savory treat.
Reheating
To reheat, use a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this may make the toast soggy rather than crispy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese besides Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a distinct nutty flavor, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. Just keep in mind that the saltiness and texture might vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just be sure not to add any meat toppings if you want to keep it fully vegetarian.
Can I prepare the egg mixture in advance?
Yes, you can whip up the egg mixture a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before dipping the bread to redistribute the herbs and cheese.
What’s the best bread for this savory French toast?
Thick-cut sourdough or brioche are ideal because they soak up the custard well without falling apart. Rustic country breads with a sturdy crumb also work wonderfully.
Can I add more herbs or other vegetables to the mix?
Definitely! Finely chopped spinach, kale, or even cooked bacon bits can be mixed into the egg custard for added flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of the moisture content to avoid soggy toast.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe. It takes a beloved classic and turns it into a savory sensation that’s perfect any time of day. Easy to prepare, full of flavor, and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor every delicious bite!
Print
Savory French Toast with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory French Toast recipe takes classic French toast to a deliciously savory level with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a hearty brunch or quick dinner, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with your favorite savory toppings like avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or a fried egg.
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or brioche)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Fried egg
- Hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh herbs until everything is well combined.
- Heat the skillet: Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the butter or warm the oil, ensuring the surface is evenly coated for cooking the bread slices.
- Dip the bread slices: Take each slice of thick-cut bread and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Allow excess mixture to drip off before transferring to the skillet.
- Cook the bread: Place the coated bread slices onto the heated skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Repeat and serve: Continue dipping and cooking the remaining slices. Serve the savory French toast warm with the optional toppings like avocado slices, sautéed mushrooms, fried egg, or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- This recipe is a versatile base; you can add finely chopped spinach or cooked bacon to the egg mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Works perfectly for brunch, lunch, or even a quick and satisfying dinner.
- Use thick-cut bread like sourdough or brioche to ensure the toast soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart.
