If you’re craving a twist on a classic brunch favorite, this Savory French Toast Recipe is absolutely going to steal your heart (and taste buds). Packed with the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh chives, this isn’t your usual sweet French toast. It’s buttery, golden, and perfect for anyone who loves a deliciously salty and satisfying breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this recipe delivers mouthwatering savory goodness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to creating a perfectly textured and flavorful French toast. Each one brings something special, from the creamy eggs to the nutty Parmesan that adds depth and complexity.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation for the custard-like batter, eggs provide richness and structure.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps make the batter smooth and easy to coat the bread.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a savory, umami kick that sets this recipe apart from the sweet versions.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness and seasoning the dish perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth that wakes up the palate gently.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a mild garlicky aroma to the toast, letting it shine without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a sweet and savory undertone.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional): Adds a pop of freshness and color, making the toast feel vibrant and alive.
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or brioche): Thick slices soak up the custard without falling apart, offering the perfect base.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For a rich, golden crust and luxurious mouthfeel when cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Prevents burning and adds a subtle fruity note to the toast’s exterior.
How to Make Savory French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by cracking the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisking them until smooth. Next, pour in the milk and continue whisking to combine. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the optional fresh chives. Mix everything together until you have a well-blended, flavorful custard that’s ready to elevate your bread.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil. Allow the butter to melt fully and the oils to heat until shimmering—this combination makes sure the bread won’t stick and will brown beautifully, creating that crave-worthy crispy exterior.
Step 3: Dip and Coat the Bread
Take each thick slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Be careful to coat both sides evenly but don’t let the bread soak too long or it will get soggy. A quick dip is just enough to absorb the savory custard without losing structure.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Place the coated slices into the hot skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a golden brown color with slightly crispy edges while ensuring the inside is cooked through. Once both sides are perfectly browned, remove the slices from the pan.
How to Serve Savory French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra chopped chives over your French toast to add a fresh, herbal zing. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a cool creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy toast. You can also dust a bit of additional Parmesan for an extra punch of flavor and cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
To complete the meal, pair this savory delight with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious boost. Crispy bacon or sausage on the side also make fantastic companions, bringing more savory layers to your plate. For a lighter option, fresh fruit or a simple green salad balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your dish into a show-stopper by stacking the savory French toast slices and layering between them with smashed avocado or a fried egg. For a brunch party, cut the French toast into smaller bites and serve as finger food with a variety of toppings. You can also turn it into an open-faced sandwich with smoked salmon and a squeeze of lemon for a gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover savory French toast, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, making it perfect for quick meals or snacks. Make sure to cool the toast completely before refrigerating to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked slices by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze. Once solid, transfer them into a freezer bag or container. Frozen savory French toast stays good for up to 1 month. This way, you have a quick, savory breakfast option ready to go at any time.
Reheating
To reheat, toast the slices in a toaster oven or a skillet at medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it will soften the toast and lose that beloved crunchiness. Reheating slowly preserves the textures and flavors wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Savory French Toast Recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great nutty flavor, shredded cheddar or Gruyère make excellent substitutes and each brings a unique twist to the savory profile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free bread slices instead of traditional bread. Just be sure the bread is thick-cut to soak up the custard well without falling apart during cooking.
Can I add herbs other than chives?
Definitely! Fresh thyme, parsley, or tarragon can all complement the flavors nicely. Adding herbs is a great way to customize the taste and bring some freshness to your dish.
What is the best bread for making savory French toast?
Thick-cut sourdough or brioche are fantastic because their sturdy yet soft texture holds the custard well. You want bread that can soak up the mixture without becoming overly soggy or falling apart in the pan.
Can I prepare the custard mixture in advance?
You can mix the eggs, milk, and seasonings a few hours ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. However, it’s best to add the fresh chives just before dipping the bread to keep their bright flavor intact.
Final Thoughts
This Savory French Toast Recipe is an absolute game-changer for your breakfast or brunch rotation. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and allows plenty of room for creativity. Once you try this golden, cheesy, garlic-kissed toast, I’m sure it’ll become a beloved go-to for those mornings when you want something cozy yet extraordinary. So grab your ingredients and start cooking — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Savory French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory French Toast recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic sweet version by incorporating Parmesan cheese and aromatic spices for a flavorful breakfast or brunch option. Made with thick-cut bread dipped in a rich egg and cheese mixture and cooked to golden perfection on the stovetop, it’s a satisfying and hearty meal that can be customized with various toppings.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Others
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or brioche)
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped fresh chives until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter and olive oil. Allow the butter to melt fully and combine with the oil, creating an evenly heated surface for cooking.
- Dip the Bread: Take each slice of thick-cut bread and dip it into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly but avoiding soaking the bread too long so it doesn’t become soggy or fall apart.
- Cook the French Toast: Lay the coated bread slices in the hot skillet. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and the egg mixture is cooked through. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the savory French toast hot. Optionally garnish with extra fresh chives, a dollop of sour cream, or a side of sautéed vegetables to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Substitute Parmesan cheese with shredded cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Try topping with avocado slices, poached eggs, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Use thick-cut bread such as sourdough or brioche for best texture and flavor.
