What to Serve with Eggs Benedict: 25+ Delicious Side Ideas
Hey there, brunch lovers! I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite breakfast dishes: Eggs Benedict. There’s nothing like cutting into perfectly poached eggs.
Watching the golden yolk ooze over a crispy English muffin, all topped with creamy hollandaise sauce. But, the right side dish can make your brunch unforgettable.
I’ve spent years perfecting my Eggs Benedict game, and along the way, I’ve discovered some incredible sides that complement this classic dish beautifully.
Whether you’re looking for something light, fresh, or hearty and indulgent, I’ve got you covered. So, grab a cup of coffee and explore what to serve with Eggs Benedict!
Classic Eggs Benedict: A Quick Refresher
Before we dive into the sides, let’s quickly revisit what makes a classic Eggs Benedict so special:
- A toasted English muffin as the base
- Canadian bacon or ham
- Perfectly poached eggs
- Rich, creamy hollandaise sauce
This combo is a breakfast powerhouse, but it can be pretty heavy on its own. That’s where our side dishes come in! They can add balance, freshness, or even more indulgence to your plate.
Hearty Side Dishes for Eggs Benedict
Let’s kick things off with some substantial sides. These hearty options will satisfy your hunger and provide a perfect balance to the rich, creamy Eggs Benedict. Get ready for some serious comfort food!
- Skillet Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. I love tossing mine with bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. The perfect savory companion to cut through the richness of hollandaise.
- Sweet and Spicy Twisted Bacon: A fun twist on regular bacon! Bake it with brown sugar and a pinch of cayenne. The sweet-spicy combo is amazing with the creamy eggs.
- Hash Browns: Golden and crispy, these are a classic for a reason. I like to grate my potatoes fresh for the best texture. They’re great for soaking up any extra hollandaise!
- Grits – Creamy Southern Style: Smooth, buttery grits are a Southern brunch staple. I add a handful of sharp cheddar to mine. They’re comfort food at its finest and pair beautifully with Eggs Benedict.
- Crab Cakes: Talk about luxury! Mini crab cakes add a touch of seafood elegance. I make mine with lots of lump crab meat and just enough breading to hold them together.
Fresh and Light Sides for Eggs Benedict
Now, let’s lighten things up a bit. These fresh sides will add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your plate, cutting through the richness of the hollandaise sauce perfectly.
- Roasted Asparagus: Simple yet sophisticated. I toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender-crisp. They’re a classic pairing that adds a nice green element to your plate.
- Apple Spinach Salad: Fresh and crisp, this salad brightens up the plate. I use tart Granny Smith apples and add some toasted walnuts for crunch. A light vinaigrette keeps it from overpowering the eggs.
- Frisée Salad: Slightly bitter frisée lettuce stands up well to rich hollandaise. I like to add crispy bacon bits and a poached egg on top – it’s like a mini Salade Lyonnaise!
- Prosciutto and Melon: The sweet melon and salty prosciutto create a perfect balance. It’s a refreshing bite between forkfuls of rich Eggs Benedict. Plus, it looks gorgeous on the plate!
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and a beautiful color to your brunch plate. I like to fan out thin slices and sprinkle with a bit of sea salt and lemon juice.
Vegetable-Forward Options to Balance Your Plate
Veggies aren’t just healthy – they’re delicious too! These vegetable-focused sides will add color, nutrients, and exciting flavors to your Eggs Benedict brunch. They’re so good, you might forget about the main dish!
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick, easy, and nutritious. I sauté mine with a bit of garlic for extra flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens with your indulgent brunch.
- Stuffed Tomatoes: Hollow out ripe tomatoes and fill with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. They’re like little flavor bombs that complement the eggs beautifully.
- Caramelized Mushrooms: Rich and earthy, these are an umami powerhouse. I use a mix of mushrooms for varied textures and flavors. They’re especially great if you’re serving vegetarian Eggs Benedict.
- Ratatouille: This French vegetable stew is a colorful addition to your brunch. I make mine with eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s hearty yet light, perfect for soaking up with your English muffin.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: A Southern classic that adds a tangy crunch to your plate. I coat mine in cornmeal for extra texture. They’re delicious with a dollop of hollandaise on top!
Unique Twists to Serve with Eggs Benedict
Ready to think outside the box? These unique sides will take your brunch from ordinary to extraordinary. They’re conversation starters that’ll have your guests raving about your culinary creativity.
- Halloumi Fries: Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside. These salty cheese sticks are addictive! I serve them with a squeeze of lemon for a bright contrast to the rich eggs.
- Smoked Salmon Sushi Roll-ups: A fun fusion twist! I wrap sushi rice and cucumber in smoked salmon. It’s like combining two brunch favorites in one bite.
- Baked Beans: A British brunch staple that’s perfect with Eggs Benedict. I slow-cook mine with bacon and molasses for a sweet and savory kick. They’re hearty and satisfying.
- Potato Rosti: This Swiss potato pancake is crispy perfection. I grate potatoes and onions, then pan-fry until golden. It’s like hash browns leveled up!
Bread and Pastry Sides for the Carb Lovers
Calling all carb enthusiasts! These bread and pastry sides are the perfect companions for soaking up that delicious hollandaise sauce. They’re indulgent, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.
- Homemade French Croissants: Buttery, flaky heaven. While they take some effort to make, there’s nothing like a fresh croissant. I love tearing off pieces to mop up hollandaise sauce.
- Gluten-Free Bread Options: For those avoiding gluten, try toasted almond flour bread or cauliflower English muffins. They’re great alternatives that don’t skimp on taste.
- Avocado Toast: Yes, you can serve toast with your Eggs Benedict! I mash avocado with lemon and red pepper flakes for a zesty side. It’s like a brunch two-for-one.
Sweet Additions to Round Out Your Brunch
Who says brunch can’t be a little sweet? These delightful options add a touch of indulgence to your Eggs Benedict spread, satisfying those sugar cravings.
- Pancakes: Who says you can’t have it all? I make mini pancakes for a sweet contrast. Try blueberry or chocolate chip for extra indulgence.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing palate cleanser. I mix seasonal fruits and add a sprinkle of mint. It’s a light, sweet finish to a decadent meal.
- Sweet Potato Toast: A trendy, healthier alternative to regular toast. Top with almond butter and banana slices for a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with Eggs Benedict.
These sweet additions provide the perfect balance to your savory brunch spread, offering a variety of flavors and textures to complement what to serve with Eggs Benedict. Your guests will love the diverse options!
Beverage Pairings for Your Eggs Benedict Brunch
No brunch is complete without the right drinks. From classic mimosas to creative cocktails and non-alcoholic options, these beverages will perfectly complement your Eggs Benedict spread and keep the conversation flowing.
- Coffee: A must-have. I love a rich, dark roast to cut through the richness of the hollandaise.
- Mimosas: The classic brunch cocktail. The citrus complements the eggs beautifully.
- Bloody Mary: If you’re feeling spicy, this savory cocktail is a great match.
- Fresh juice: For a non-alcoholic option, try fresh-squeezed orange or grapefruit juice.
How to Create the Perfect Eggs Benedict Brunch Spread
Now that we’ve explored all these delicious sides, you might be wondering how to put it all together. Here are my top tips for creating a brunch spread that’ll wow your guests:
1. Balance is Key: Mix and match different textures and flavors. I like to include at least one veggie option, one carb, and something fresh.
2. Consider Your Guests: If you’re serving a crowd, offer a variety of sides to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
3. Prep Ahead: Many of these sides can be made in advance. I often prepare salads and roasted veggies the night before to save time.
4. Don’t Forget the Presentation: Use colorful plates and garnish with fresh herbs. Eat with your eyes first, right?
5. Keep it Warm: Use a warming tray or oven to keep your Eggs Benedict and hot sides at the perfect temperature.
Remember, the key to a great brunch is to have fun with it! Mix and match these sides to create your perfect Eggs Benedict experience.
