Savoury French toast
Savoury French toast is a delicious breakfast dish that combines bold flavors from herbs, spices, and cheese with a comforting texture of crispy edges and a soft, custardy inside. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, it uses simple pantry staples to create a versatile and flavorful meal.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Bread
- Thick slices of sturdy bread like sourdough or country loaf (4-6 slices)
Batter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar, gruyère, or parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
For Frying
- Butter or oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk or cream, 1/2 cup grated cheese, fresh thyme, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. The batter should be flavorful and smooth, ready to soak into the bread.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of thick bread into the batter, soaking for about 20-30 seconds on each side so it absorbs the savory custard well but doesn’t become soggy.
- Heat and Fry: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the soaked bread slices into the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve Warm: Remove the toast from the pan and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs, grated parmesan, or your favorite sides such as crispy bacon, roasted tomatoes, or fresh greens.
Notes
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread soaks up the batter better without falling apart.
- Don’t Over-Soak: Dip just long enough so the bread is coated but not dripping to avoid mushiness.
- Medium Heat Frying: Ensures a golden crust without burning or undercooked centers.
- Fresh Herbs: Freshness brightens the dish significantly, but dried herbs can work in emergencies.
- Cheese Choices Matter: Use melting cheeses with strong flavor for that perfect bite.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: savoury French toast, savory breakfast, brunch recipe, easy French toast, cheesy French toast, herb French toast