Discover the joy of a savory twist on a breakfast classic with this Savory French Toast Recipe. This dish takes the comforting richness of traditional French toast and elevates it by adding the perfect blend of spices and herbs, making it a satisfying meal any time of day. With its crispy golden exterior and flavorful, tender inside, this recipe will quickly become your go-to when you want something hearty, delicious, and so easy to whip up. Whether you are new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this Savory French Toast Recipe promises an exciting and cozy flavor experience that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Savory French Toast Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each item plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that transforms ordinary bread into an irresistible dish.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation that gives the toast its rich, custardy texture and binds the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps the egg mixture coat the bread evenly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ flavors without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick and warmth, perfect for a savory profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlicky aroma that complements the herbs and spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and subtle sweetness to the egg mixture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh herb that brightens every bite with color and flavor.
- 4 thick slices of day-old bread (such as sourdough or brioche): Stale bread is ideal because it soaks up the egg mixture perfectly without falling apart.
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying): Essential for crisping the exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
- Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, avocado, or a fried egg — add these to customize your Savory French Toast Recipe and elevate your meal even more.
How to Make Savory French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Begin by whisking together your eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley in a shallow bowl or baking dish. This combination creates a flavorful custard that will soak into the bread, ensuring every bite bursts with taste and a tender texture.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Take your thick slices of day-old bread and gently dip each one into the egg mixture, allowing it to absorb for about 20 seconds on each side. The bread should be saturated but not soggy, setting the stage for a perfectly cooked savory French toast.
Step 3: Cook the Toast
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, carefully add the soaked bread slices. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust and are cooked through. The butter will add lovely richness and a crispy edge, complementing the soft interior beautifully.
Step 4: Serve Warm with Toppings
Serve your Savory French Toast Recipe immediately while still warm. This is the perfect moment to get creative and add your favorite toppings such as a fried egg, sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, fresh avocado slices, or a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Savory French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Think fresh and vibrant when garnishing your savory French toast. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds salty depth, while fresh herbs like parsley or chives bring a pop of color and brightness. For an extra special touch, add a perfectly fried egg on top—the runny yolk will mingle beautifully with every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside light, fresh sides. Consider pairing it with sautéed spinach or crispy roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweet acidity that balances the richness of the toast. Crispy bacon or grilled mushrooms can also turn this into a heartier meal without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests or family, try stacking two slices and layering in sautéed greens and a fried egg, drizzling with a simple balsamic glaze or hot sauce for contrast. Serving the toast on rustic boards with colorful sides also amps up the visual appeal while keeping things casual and welcoming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover savory French toast, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, making it a great candidate for quick meals or brunch the next day without any loss of flavor.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cooked toast. Place cooled slices between parchment paper inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen savory French toast will keep well for up to 1 month and can be thawed in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that crisp exterior, reheat leftover savory French toast in a skillet over medium heat or pop it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may lead to a soggy texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While day-old sourdough or brioche work best because they soak up the egg mixture without falling apart, you can try other sturdy bread like French bread or whole grain. Just make sure the slices are thick and a bit stale for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To adapt this Savory French Toast Recipe for a vegan diet, replace eggs with a chickpea flour batter or a commercial egg substitute and use plant-based milk. Fry with olive oil or vegan butter to maintain flavor and texture, though the overall experience will differ slightly from the classic.
Can I add cheese or meat to the egg mixture?
Yes! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar or diced ham to the egg mixture is a wonderful way to boost flavor and make the dish even more indulgent. Just whisk them in with the eggs before soaking the bread slices.
How do I make the toast extra crispy?
Use a generous amount of butter or oil when frying and cook over medium heat without rushing. Let each side develop a deep golden brown crust before flipping to achieve that perfect crispiness while keeping the interior soft.
What other savory spices can I use for different flavors?
Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper for a hint of heat, or dried herbs like thyme and oregano. Each variation adds a unique twist to your Savory French Toast Recipe, making it a versatile dish you can enjoy in many ways.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about this Savory French Toast Recipe, a dish that warms the soul and excites the palate at any time of day. Its straightforward ingredients and simple steps make it an approachable yet impressive meal to share with loved ones. So why not give it a try and discover how a humble breakfast classic can transform into a savory delight you’ll want to make again and again?
Print
Savory French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory French Toast recipe offers a delicious twist on the traditional sweet version by incorporating herbs and spices into the egg mixture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, it features golden, crispy bread soaked in a flavorful egg custard and pan-fried to perfection. Optional savory toppings like sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, avocado, or a fried egg add extra richness and nutrition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 4 thick slices of day-old bread (such as sourdough or brioche)
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan
- Sautéed spinach
- Cherry tomatoes
- Avocado
- Fried egg
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl or baking dish, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped fresh parsley until well combined.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of the day-old bread into the egg mixture, ensuring it soaks for about 20 seconds per side to absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Allow it to melt and heat until it sizzles slightly.
- Cook the French toast: Add the soaked bread slices to the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until each side is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Serve with toppings: Serve the savory French toast warm, topped with your choice of grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, or a fried egg to enhance flavor and texture.
Notes
- This dish works well as a quick breakfast, brunch, or an easy dinner option.
- For added flavor, mix in shredded cheese, diced ham, or fresh herbs directly into the egg mixture before soaking the bread.
- Using day-old bread like sourdough or brioche gives the best texture, as fresh bread can become too soggy.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences to customize the savory profile.
