Savory French Toast Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it elevates a classic breakfast staple into a savory masterpiece, perfectly blending the richness of eggs, Parmesan, and chives with the comforting crunch of golden-brown sourdough. Plus, the subtle kick from the cayenne pepper and the aromatic touch of garlic and onion powder create a flavor explosion that makes waking up a delight!

My savory take on French toast consists of four large eggs, a cup of whole milk, and a mixture of fresh chives and Parmesan cheese that offers a blast of flavor. I prefer to use day-old sourdough bread, which provides the ideal texture.

This dish packs a lot of protein and calcium into one breakfast, and it is so deliciously rich it could easily pass for dessert.

Ingredients

• Eggs: Rich in protein and essential nutrients, they provide structure and richness.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and moisture, contributing to the dish’s custard-like texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers savory umami flavor and a touch of saltiness.
• Chives: Provide a mild onion flavor with a fresh, herbal note.
• Sourdough/Brioche: Offers a firm texture ideal for soaking while adding subtle flavors.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• 8 slices of day-old bread, preferably sourdough or brioche
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking
• Additional grated Parmesan and fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper, and whisk until the mixture is well combined.

2. Combine the minced fresh chives, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, if using, with the milk. Mix until all of the ingredients are fully incorporated.

3. Warm a big frying pan or griddle to medium heat. With 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil on hand, add both to the pan once it’s warm. Let the butter melt and mix in with the oil.

4. Coat each slice of bread in the egg mixture, making sure to cover both sides completely. Allow any extra batter to drain off.

5. Put the coated slices of bread onto the skillet or griddle that has been heated. If necessary, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.

6. Prepare each side of the bread for 3 to 4 minutes, or until it reaches a golden-brown and crispy state. If the heat is too high, adjust it to prevent burning.

7. Eliminate from the skillet the French toast that has been cooked and keep the toast warm. With the remaining slices, repeat the cooking process, adding more butter and oil to the skillet as necessary.

8. When all the pieces are done cooking, place them on a serving platter or on individual plates.

9. For an explosion of flavor and a beautiful presentation, top the savory French toast with more freshly grated Parmesan and some snipped chives.

10. Serve right away while it’s hot, and savor your delicious new version of a breakfast staple!

Equipment Needed

1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Whisk
3. Large frying pan or griddle
4. Spatula
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Serving platter or individual plates

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of bread?Indeed, you can use other kinds of bread such as whole grain or ciabatta for a different texture and flavor, but sourdough and brioche are recommended.
• Is there a dairy-free option?If you require a dairy-free version, you can use either almond milk or oat milk in place of the whole milk; you should also leave out the Parmesan cheese.
• How do I make it spicier?Include additional quantities of cayenne pepper or substitute with red chili flakes in the egg blend for an amplified punch.
• Can I prepare the mixture in advance?Indeed, mixing the eggs, milk, and spices can be done a few hours ahead. These ingredients can be combined in the refrigerator; give them a good whisk before using.
• What can I serve with Savory French Toast?It goes nicely with a complementary side dish such as a salad, some roasted root vegetables, or even just some good, crispy bacon.
• How do I keep cooked French toast warm?Keep the finished French toast warm in a preheated oven set to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (about 93 degrees Celsius) until all the toast is made.
• Can I freeze leftover French toast?Yes, let them cool all the way down, then freeze in a single layer before moving to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster for best results.

Substitutions and Variations

Milk: Swap for almond milk or oat milk for an option free from dairy.
Parmesan cheese: For a different flavor, consider trying grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast.
Chives: Substitute they with finely minced green onions. Or try this: Chives’ cousin parsley can step in for them.
Whole-Grain Bread: Substitute for bread made from whole grains; use gluten-free bread as an alternative. Dietary Bread Considerations: Replace with bread that meets your dietary restrictions.
Butter: Substitute ghee or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.

Pro Tips

1. Use Stale Bread: Ensure the bread is at least a day old or slightly stale. This helps it absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy, resulting in perfectly textured French toast.