Discover the Best Savory French Toast Recipe for Breakfast

Savory French toast? You bet! This savory spin on the traditional sweet breakfast dish is a game-changer. Gone are the days of drowning your French toast in syrup – Savory French Toast is here to satisfy your savory cravings and elevate your morning meal to new heights. Imagine thick slices of bread soaked in a cheesy, herb-infused custard, then pan-fried to golden perfection. It’s the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors that will have you rethinking your breakfast routine.

Table of Contents

The Rise of Savory Breakfast Dishes

In recent years, the breakfast scene has undergone a remarkable transformation. While classic sweet treats like pancakes and waffles will always have a special place on the breakfast table, there’s been a growing demand for more savory morning fare. Savory French Toast is just one example of this trend, as people seek out hearty, flavor-packed options to start their day.

The appeal of Savory French Toast lies in its ability to satisfy both the savory and the indulgent cravings we often have in the morning. By swapping out the traditional sugar and cinnamon for a cheesy, herb-infused custard, this dish delivers a satisfying umami punch that pairs perfectly with a crisp, golden exterior.

Ingredients for Savory French Toast

To make this delectable Savory French Toast, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 6 thick slices of sturdy bread (such as Brioche, Challah, Sourdough, or a good quality white sandwich bread)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup 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)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Unsalted butter, for cooking

The key to making Savory French Toast is to create a rich, flavorful custard that will infuse the bread with all the savory goodness. By incorporating grated cheese, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, you’ll end up with a truly unique and crave-worthy breakfast dish.

How to Make Savory French Toast

Making Savory French Toast is a straightforward process, but the results are anything but ordinary. Follow these easy steps to transform your breakfast game:

1. Prepare the custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated cheese, chopped herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Allow the bread to soak for about 30 seconds per side to absorb the custard.
3. Cook the French toast: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Once melted and hot, place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet. Cook each side for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve: Remove the Savory French Toast from the skillet and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

The key to perfecting Savory French Toast is to allow the bread to soak up the custard mixture thoroughly before cooking. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dish, creating a harmonious balance of savory and indulgent notes in every bite.

Pairing Suggestions for Savory French Toast

While Savory French Toast is delicious on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of complementary side dishes and beverages. Consider serving it alongside:

• Sautéed Spinach: The earthy, slightly bitter notes of sautéed spinach make a perfect companion to the rich, savory French toast.
• Fresh Tomato Salad: The acidity and freshness of a simple tomato salad can help cut through the richness of the French toast.
• Avocado Toast: For a truly indulgent breakfast, pair your Savory French Toast with a slice of creamy avocado toast.
• Freshly Squeezed Juice: Start your day with a refreshing glass of orange, grapefruit, or pineapple juice to balance the flavors of the French toast.
• Herbal Tea: For a soothing, health-conscious pairing, try a cup of fragrant herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint.
• Coffee Variations: Elevate your morning coffee routine by trying a specialty brew, like a spiced latte or a cold brew with a touch of vanilla.

Nutritional Information for Savory French Toast

Savory French Toast is a nutrient-dense breakfast option that can provide a satisfying start to your day. Depending on the specific ingredients used, a serving of this dish typically contains a balance of complex carbohydrates, high-quality proteins, and healthy fats.

The use of sturdy, whole-grain bread, nutrient-rich eggs, and flavorful cheeses and herbs contribute to the overall nutritional profile of Savory French Toast. To make it even healthier, you can opt for low-fat milk or half-and-half, whole-grain bread, and reduced-fat cheese varieties.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Savory Bread Pudding
• Cheesy Omelette with Fresh Herbs
• Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Crepes
• Savory Dutch Baby Pancake

FAQs About Savory French Toast

Is Savory French Toast a thing?

Yes, Savory French Toast is a real and delicious thing! While the traditional French toast is typically sweet, this savory version swaps out the sugar and cinnamon for a cheesy, herb-infused custard, making it a savory breakfast option that is growing in popularity.

How to make French toast savoury?

To make Savory French Toast, you’ll need to create a custard-like mixture that includes eggs, milk or cream, grated cheese, fresh herbs, and spices like garlic powder. Dip the bread slices into this savory custard before cooking them in a skillet or on a griddle until golden brown.

Is French toast supposed to be sweet or savoury?

Traditionally, French toast has been a sweet breakfast dish, often served with syrup, powdered sugar, or fruit toppings. However, the rise of savory breakfast trends has led to the creation of Savory French Toast, which challenges the traditional sweet preparation by using a savory custard base instead.

Was French toast originally savoury?

No, French toast was not originally a savory dish. The origins of French toast can be traced back to ancient Rome, where cooks would soak bread in milk and eggs and then fry it. Over time, the dish evolved, and the sweet variations we’re familiar with today became more popular in many parts of the world.

Conclusion

Savory French Toast is a delightful twist on a breakfast classic that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. By swapping out the traditional sweet toppings for a rich, cheesy custard and fragrant herbs, you can elevate your morning meal to new heights of flavor and satisfaction. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese and herb combinations to find your perfect savory French toast recipe. Embrace the savory side of breakfast and indulge in the irresistible combination of crispy bread and savory goodness.

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print