Double-Cheese Eggs Benedict

Indulge in a delicious and cheesy twist on the classic Eggs Benedict with this Double-Cheese Eggs Benedict recipe. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this dish features poached eggs served over toasted English muffins and Canadian bacon, topped with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. It’s a favorite among guests at Megan Hakes’ bed-and-breakfast in Wellsville, Pennsylvania.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons plus 1½ teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups 2% milk
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 8 eggs
• 4 English muffins, split and toasted
• 8 slices Canadian bacon, warmed
• 8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

PREPARATION:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
2. Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and white pepper to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Cover the saucepan and keep the cheese sauce warm.
3. Fill a large skillet with 2-3 inches of water. Add the white vinegar and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
4. Crack one egg at a time into a custard cup or saucer. Hold the cup close to the surface of the simmering water and gently slip the egg into the water. Repeat with the remaining eggs, cooking 4 at a time.
5. Cook the eggs, uncovered, until the whites are completely set, about 4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to lift each poached egg out of the water and drain excess water.
6. To assemble, place one slice of Canadian bacon on each half of the toasted English muffins. Top each with a poached egg. Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the eggs. Sprinkle with the cooked and crumbled bacon.

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

PREP/COOK TIME: 15 minutes preparation + 20 minutes cooking

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• To keep the poached eggs warm while preparing the remaining components, you can place them in a bowl of warm water.
• Adjust the cooking time for the poached eggs according to your desired level of doneness. Cook for less time if you prefer a softer yolk or longer for a firmer yolk.
• If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to experiment with variations such as Gruyere or Swiss cheese for the cheese sauce.
• Customize your Double-Cheese Eggs Benedict by adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley as a garnish.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the Canadian bacon and substitute with sautéed spinach or roasted tomatoes.

TIPS:

• Use fresh eggs for poaching, as they hold their shape better in the water.
• To help prevent the poached eggs from sticking together, gently stir the simmering water just before adding each egg.
• If you’re new to poaching eggs, you can use a slotted spoon to gently shape the egg while it’s cooking to achieve a more rounded appearance.
• For extra flavor, brush the toasted English muffins with melted butter before assembling the dish.
• Serve Double-Cheese Eggs Benedict with a side of fresh fruit or a mixed green salad for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.

Take your breakfast or brunch to the next level with this mouthwatering Double-Cheese Eggs Benedict recipe. Megan Hakes, owner of a bed-and-breakfast in Wellsville, Pennsylvania, knows that her guests love this cheesy twist on the classic dish. Poached eggs are delicately placed on toasted English muffins and Canadian bacon, then generously drizzled with a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce.

The combination of the rich and creamy cheese sauce, the perfectly poached eggs, and the smoky Canadian bacon creates a delectable and satisfying breakfast or brunch experience. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

This recipe offers a great opportunity for customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique cheese sauce. You can also add fresh herbs or spices to enhance the flavors even further.

Double-Cheese Eggs Benedict is a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to impress your family and guests. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a mixed green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re running a bed-and-breakfast or simply looking to elevate your breakfast routine, this recipe is a winner.