Description
Discover a versatile and flavorful way to enjoy French toast with these savory recipes perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Featuring a rich custard base infused with herbs, cheese, and spices, this savory French toast delivers a crispy exterior and tender interior that can be customized with various toppings and dietary adjustments.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Bread: Day-old sturdy bread such as sourdough or brioche (4-6 slices)
- Eggs: 3 large
- Milk or cream: 3/4 cup (whole milk, cream, or preferred dairy/non-dairy)
- Cheese: 1/2 cup grated (sharp cheddar, parmesan, Gruyère, or a mix)
- Fresh herbs: 1-2 tbsp finely chopped (thyme, chives, basil, rosemary, or tarragon)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Butter or oil: 2-3 tbsp for frying
Optional Variations
- Vegetables: sautéed mushrooms, spinach (1/2 cup)
- Protein: diced ham or cooked bacon (1/4 cup)
- Dairy-free substitutes: almond or oat milk, nutritional yeast instead of cheese
- Spices for extra flavor: smoked paprika, chili flakes, cumin (1/4 tsp each or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a wide bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 3/4 cup milk or cream, 1/2 cup grated cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and your chosen fresh herbs and spices until smooth and well combined.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of day-old bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to absorb evenly on both sides without becoming overly soggy—just enough to coat thoroughly.
- Heat the pan: Warm a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat and add 2-3 tablespoons of butter or oil. Allow it to melt and coat the pan for a golden sear.
- Cook the toast: Place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the exterior is crisp and golden brown and the inside is hot and flavorful.
- Serve immediately: Remove from the pan and plate right away. Garnish with fresh herbs, grated parmesan, sour cream, or sliced avocado for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better soaking and to prevent sogginess.
- Do not over-soak bread; it should be coated but not dripping.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
- Fresh herbs added right before cooking or serving boost flavor and aroma.
- Mix cheeses like Gruyère and mozzarella for a deeper flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: savoury French toast, breakfast, brunch, cheesy French toast, herb-infused toast, easy French toast recipes, vegetarian, gluten-free options, pan-fried toast
