Easy Savory French Toast Recipe

Introduction

Enjoy a savory twist on a classic breakfast favorite with this easy savory French toast recipe. Made with fresh herbs and simple seasonings, it’s perfect for a satisfying morning meal or a cozy brunch.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of challah bread or a baguette (preferably 1-2 days old)
• 1 cup milk (unsweetened almond milk or any milk you prefer)
• 6 eggs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or onion powder, or a combination)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any mild oil of your choice)
• Optional toppings: arugula, sliced avocado, fried or soft-boiled eggs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a mild-flavored oil, butter, or margarine.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until combined.
3. Step 3: When the oil is shimmering, begin soaking the bread slices in the egg mixture, allowing each slice to soak for 10 to 30 seconds depending on slice thickness and dryness.
4. Step 4: Carefully place the soaked bread slices in the skillet. Lower the heat to medium-low and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook without flipping until the first side is golden brown.
5. Step 5: Flip the slices and cook the other side until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Step 6: Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving plate and top with optional ingredients like arugula, sliced avocado, or fried eggs.

Tips & Variations

• Use slightly stale bread to prevent sogginess and achieve better soaking.
• Swap fresh herbs for dried if needed, though fresh herbs offer brighter flavor.
• Try adding a sprinkle of grated cheese like Parmesan to the egg mixture for extra savory richness.
• Serve with a side of roasted tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for a complete brunch.

Storage

Store leftover savory French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, challah or baguette are ideal, but you can use any sturdy bread like sourdough or brioche. Slightly stale bread works best to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use any plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk in place of regular milk, and cook the French toast in oil instead of butter to keep it dairy-free.

Easy Savory French Toast Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 89 reviews

This Easy Savory French Toast recipe transforms classic French toast into a flavorful, herb-infused dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Made with challah or baguette bread soaked in a savory egg and herb mixture, then pan-fried to a golden crisp, it offers a delicious twist with optional toppings like arugula, avocado, and eggs.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: French-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 slices of challah bread or baguette (preferably 1–2 days old)
• 1 cup milk (unsweetened almond milk or any milk of choice)
• 6 eggs
• 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or onion powder or a combination)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil (or preferred cooking oil)

Optional Toppings

• Arugula or spinach
• Sliced avocado
• Fried or soft-boiled eggs

Instructions

1. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet on medium heat and add mild-flavored oil, butter, or margarine. Allow it to warm until the oil shimmers.
2. Prepare the egg mixture: In a bowl or casserole dish, whisk together eggs, milk, chopped parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until fully combined.
3. Soak the bread: Dip the bread slices into the egg mixture in batches, soaking each slice for 10-30 seconds depending on slice thickness and bread dryness, ensuring even absorption without becoming soggy.
4. Start cooking: Once the skillet oil is hot and shimmering, transfer the soaked bread slices into the skillet carefully. Reduce the heat to medium-low to avoid burning and ensure even cooking. Avoid crowding the pan to allow proper crisping on all slices.
5. Fry until golden: Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to cook the opposite side without tearing the bread.
6. Serve: Remove cooked French toast to a serving platter. Garnish with optional toppings such as fresh arugula or spinach, avocado slices, and fried or soft-boiled eggs for an enhanced savory flavor experience.

Notes

• Using day-old bread helps to absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
• Adjust soaking time depending on bread thickness and moisture to prevent sogginess.
• Medium-low heat is essential to cook the toast through without burning the exterior.
• Feel free to customize herbs and seasonings to taste; fresh thyme and parsley add brightness but dried herbs can be substituted.
• Optional toppings add texture and flavor contrast, making the dish more hearty and nutritious.

Keywords: Savory French Toast, Herb French Toast, Breakfast Recipe, Brunch Idea, Easy French Toast, Pan-fried French Toast