There’s something truly comforting about rediscovering classic dishes and twisting them into savory delights. When I first whipped up this Savory French Toast, I was searching for a brunch option that could shake off the mundane fast food routine. The moment the aroma of garlic mingled with freshly chopped chives in my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This easy Savory French Toast recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet remains incredibly approachable. Picture this: a perfectly golden crust hiding a soft, custardy center seasoned with rich Parmesan. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch or merely seeking a cozy dinner option, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and reinvigorate your love for homemade meals. So grab your whisk and let’s embark on a savory adventure that will surely tantalize your taste buds!
Why is this Savory French Toast Recipe special?
Transformative Taste: This Savory French Toast redefines breakfast with its delightful garlic, Parmesan, and chive blend.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it for brunch, lunch, or even dinner—this dish fits any mealtime!
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family and friends with a dish that feels fancy without the fuss.
Quick Preparation: Whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Looking for more brunch inspiration? Check out my collection of scrumptious brunch recipes!
Savory French Toast Ingredients
• Discover how to create the perfect Savory French Toast with these essential ingredients!
For the Batter
- Bread – Use thick slices for a custardy interior; brioche or sourdough can enhance flavor.
- Eggs – Provide structure and a creamy, custardy texture.
- Milk/Cream – Adds rich creaminess; substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances depth of savory flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger kick.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balanced seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
For the Topping
- Parmesan Cheese – Brings an umami flavor and a salty kick; try Pecorino Romano for a sharper option.
- Chives – Adds fresh herbiness; green onions make a great substitute.
- Butter/Oil – Used for frying, it gives the toast a crisp and golden texture.
Feel inspired to try this Savory French Toast Recipe? Gather your ingredients and let’s make brunch magic happen!
How to Make Savory French Toast
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Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well-combined. This step is key for ensuring a rich, custardy batter!
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Dip the Bread: Take thick slices of bread and dip them into the egg mixture, allowing both sides to be fully coated. Let any excess mixture drip off for optimal consistency.
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Heat the Skillet: In a skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat until it’s melted and hot. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter is bubbling slightly!
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Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the soaked bread slices in the skillet and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a beautiful golden brown color, ensuring they are crisp outside and tender inside.
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Serve with Flair: Once cooked, transfer the toast to a plate and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan and fresh chives before serving. Enjoy the delightful aroma and that beautiful presentation!
Optional: A drizzle of hot sauce can add an exciting kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory French Toast?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement this savory delight, creating a meal bursting with flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the creamy, custardy French toast, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: A light salad with peppery arugula and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the toast.
- Tomato Soup: Creamy tomato soup brings warmth and acidity to this dish, balancing the savory flavors perfectly.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach adds a healthy touch and a vibrant green color while providing another layer of earthy flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and healthy fats, creating a deliciously indulgent topping for your savory French toast.
- Chardonnay: A crisp glass of Chardonnay complements the cheese and fresh herbs, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory elements, making for a wholesome side that adds texture and flavor.
- Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of herbed cream cheese on top adds a luscious touch that pairs well with the savory notes of the French toast.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings a burst of freshness, offering a hint of sweetness that plays off the savory richness of the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can whisk the egg mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, preventing any last-minute stress during a busy brunch. Additionally, slice your bread and store it in an airtight container; this will keep it fresh and ready to soak. When you’re ready to serve, simply dip the pre-cut bread into the prepared egg mixture and fry as instructed, ensuring each slice is golden brown and crisp. This method makes your Savory French Toast just as delicious and simplifies your meal prep for a delightful breakfast experience!
Savory French Toast Variations
Feel free to take this recipe and make it your own—your taste buds will thank you!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly option. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!
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Cheese Swap: Use feta or crumbled goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist that adds depth to each bite.
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Herb Infusion: Swap chives for fresh basil or parsley to open up new flavor dimensions and freshness in every slice.
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Protein Boost: Add crispy bacon or diced ham for an extra kick of protein and flavor to make breakfast heartier and more fulfilling.
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Veggie Delight: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a colorful, nutrient-packed version that’s bursting with flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes into the egg mixture or serve with a splash of your favorite hot sauce for those who like it spicy.
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Texture Twist: Top with crispy fried onions for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
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Savory Sweet: Drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey to balance out the savory elements, creating a sweet-savory experience that’s truly irresistible.
Every variation is a chance to create something uniquely yours! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Savory French Toast
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Room Temperature: Savory French Toast is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to leave it out, consume it within 2 hours to ensure quality and safety.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent sogginess, separate layers with parchment paper.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Savory French Toast for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy, usually taking about 5-6 minutes per side for the best texture.
Expert Tips for Savory French Toast
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Choose Bread Wisely: Use day-old, thick slices of bread to achieve the best custardy texture while avoiding sogginess.
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Don’t Rush the Dip: Make sure both sides of the bread soak in the egg mixture for even flavor. A quick dip won’t cut it!
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Watch the Heat: Maintain medium heat while frying. Too high, and the toast burns; too low, and it’ll become greasy.
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Experiment Boldly: Feel free to add extra ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or roasted peppers to enhance the savory French toast experience.
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Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the Parmesan and chives! They elevate the dish, adding flavor and a touch of elegance to your savory French toast recipe.
Savory French Toast Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best bread for Savory French Toast?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose thick slices of day-old bread, as they absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Brioche or sourdough work wonderfully, as their flavors enhance the overall dish. Look for bread that has a sturdy crust to ensure it holds up during cooking.
How should I store leftover Savory French Toast?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent moisture buildup. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture, allowing around 5-6 minutes on medium-low heat.
Can I freeze Savory French Toast?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in a skillet for that delightful crispiness.
What if my Savory French Toast turns out soggy?
No worries! If your French toast ends up soggy, it might be because the bread soaked up too much egg mixture or wasn’t cooked long enough. To avoid this, ensure you’re using thicker, day-old bread and let excess egg mixture drip off before cooking. Cooking them longer on medium heat will also help to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Can I make Savory French Toast gluten-free?
Very much so! Simply substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread of your choice. Many gluten-free brands now offer delicious options that can provide that great custardy interior without compromising on flavor or texture. Just be sure to read the product labels for any additional ingredients that may not align with your dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the milk or cream with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer. For the Parmesan cheese, try using a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile, keeping the savory essence intact while meeting your dietary needs.
Irresistibly Savory French Toast Recipe Full of Flavor Bliss
Equipment
- Skillet
- medium bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 4 slices thick bread (brioche or sourdough)
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream or substitute with almond or oat milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
For the Topping
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or use Pecorino Romano
- 1 bunch chives, chopped green onions as a substitute
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
Instructions
How to Make Savory French Toast
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well-combined.
- Take thick slices of bread and dip them into the egg mixture, allowing both sides to be fully coated.
- In a skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat until it’s melted and hot.
- Carefully place the soaked bread slices in the skillet and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once cooked, transfer the toast to a plate and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan and fresh chives before serving.
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