The aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen is a sure way to elevate your breakfast game. This Easy Savory French Toast transforms an old favorite into something unique and delicious, perfect for any meal of the day. With just a handful of common pantry ingredients and a swift preparation time, you can whip up this comforting dish that’s not only dairy-free but also full of flavor. Picture crispy, golden-brown bread soaked in a rich egg mixture, topped with a perfectly runny fried egg and a sprinkle of greens—talk about a delicious way to start your morning or brunch! Are you ready to take your French toast to the next level? Let’s dive into this savory twist!

Why is This French Toast a Must-Try?

Unique Flavor Profile: This Easy Savory French Toast features a delightful blend of fresh herbs, taking a traditional dish to new heights.

Quick and Simple: With just a few pantry staples, you can have a gourmet meal on your table in no time.

Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy a creamy texture and rich flavor without the lactose—perfect for those with dietary restrictions!

Versatile Meal: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish adapts beautifully to any occasion. Pair it with different toppings like sautéed spinach or roasted tomatoes for variety!

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with this unique twist—everyone will love the crispy, golden-brown exterior and soft, flavorful inside.

Savory French Toast Ingredients

• Get ready for a flavor adventure with these tasty ingredients!

For the Batter

Challah Bread (or Baguette) – Provides the ideal structure; use 1-2 days old for optimal soaking.
Unsweetened Almond Milk – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to swap with any milk of your choice.
Eggs – Essential for binding and creating that custardy texture in your savory French toast.
Fresh Parsley – Bursts with flavor and freshness; substitute with your favorite herb if desired.
Fresh Thyme – Complements the dish’s richness; optional but brings a lovely aroma to the table.
Garlic Powder (or Onion Powder) – Enhances the savory depth; try combining both for a robust flavor boost.
Salt & Black Pepper – Key seasonings that elevate taste; adjust according to your preference.
Vegetable Oil (or Butter) – Ideal for frying to achieve that crispy texture; pick any oil you love.

Optional Toppings

Arugula – Adds a peppery bite that pairs beautifully with savory notes.
Sliced Avocado – Creamy richness that enhances both flavor and nutrition.
Fried or Soft-Boiled Eggs – Perfect for topping off your dish, adding another layer of savory goodness.

This Easy Savory French Toast is bound to become a favorite, providing comforting flavors and delightful textures with every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Savory French Toast

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. Add a generous drizzle of vegetable oil or a teaspoon of butter, allowing it to heat until shimmering. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture on your Easy Savory French Toast.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs, unsweetened almond milk, freshly chopped parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined, about 1-2 minutes. The goal is to create a smooth, creamy mixture that will soak into the bread, infusing it with savory flavor while preparing your French toast.

Step 3: Soak the Bread
Take slices of your challah or baguette and dip them into the egg mixture. Allow each slice to soak for about 10-30 seconds, depending on thickness, ensuring they are well-coated but not overly soggy. This soaking time is essential for enhancing the flavor and texture of your Easy Savory French Toast.

Step 4: Cook the Toast
Carefully transfer the soaked bread slices to the preheated skillet, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip each slice gently to achieve a beautifully browned exterior on the other side, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
Once your Easy Savory French Toast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and serve immediately. Top it with vibrant arugula, creamy avocado slices, and a perfectly fried or soft-boiled egg for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Enjoy the delightful presentation and aroma!

Tips for the Best French Toast

Use Stale Bread: Stale bread, like 1-2 day old challah or baguette, absorbs the egg mixture better without disintegrating, ensuring a perfect soaking.
Monitor Heat Carefully: Keep the skillet at medium-low heat. Too high a temperature may burn the toast before it’s cooked through, compromising that lovely crispy texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking. Crowding leads to steaming instead of that desired crispiness.
Customize Herbs: Feel free to mix and match fresh herbs based on your preference and availability. Just remember, the right herbs can enhance your savory French toast remarkably!
Serve Immediately: French toast is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet. If you need to keep it warm, place the cooked slices in a low oven covered with foil to prevent drying out.

French Toast Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to bring your own twist to this savory delight—your kitchen creativity is welcome here!

Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk with oat milk or coconut milk for a different flavor profile while keeping it creamy.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this dish more accessible without sacrificing taste and texture.
Herb Swaps: Replace parsley with fresh cilantro or dill for a unique flavor. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a subtle heat that will wake up your taste buds.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle in some nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for a cheesy, umami kick that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some finely chopped spinach or kale to the egg mixture for an added nutritional punch and delightful texture.
Flavorful Toppings: Top with sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for an extra savory component that beautifully enhances the overall dish.
Unique Textures: Consider using cornbread or sourdough as the base for a twist on the classic French toast—each brings a wonderful variety in taste and texture!

Remember, whatever variations you choose, they’ll make your Easy Savory French Toast all the more delightful. If you’re looking for more inspiration or variations, check out my Savory Breakfast Ideas or explore my tips on Cooking with Fresh Herbs. Let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Savory French Toast is ideal for making ahead, saving you precious time during busy mornings! You can prepare the egg mixture (eggs, almond milk, herbs, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk it together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, slice your bread the night before and keep it in a resealable bag to ensure it’s fresh. When you’re ready to cook, just soak the bread in the prepared mixture for about 10-30 seconds, then fry it in your skillet. This prep ensures your French toast is just as delicious and convenient, ready to lift your breakfast game without any morning stress!

Storage Tips for French Toast

Fridge: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and delicious flavor while preventing it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This keeps it fresh for future breakfasts!
Reheating: To enjoy your French toast again, reheat it in a toaster or oven until warm and crispy, around 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Avoid microwaving to maintain its texture.
Batch Cooking: If you make a large batch, keep the extras handy for quick breakfasts. Just store them properly, and you’ll always have a savory treat ready to go!

What to Serve with Easy Savory French Toast

When it’s time to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience, these delightful pairings will bring your meal to the next level.

Crispy Arugula Salad: A refreshing, peppery salad that cuts through the richness of the French toast, adding a nice crunch.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado complements the savory flavors perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.
Tomato and Basil Salad: Juicy tomatoes paired with fragrant basil create a fresh, vibrant addition that brightens each bite. A little drizzle of olive oil ties it all together.
Soft-Boiled Eggs: For that extra touch of elegance, top your French toast with a soft-boiled egg for a rich and satisfying finish.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: A tangy, herb-infused yogurt dip adds a creamy element, bringing more flavor and moisture to your dish.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and savory roasted cherry tomatoes bring a burst of flavor and wonderful texture to your meal.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: A light, refreshing soup provides a cooling contrast, making it a great choice for a warm brunch day.
Sparkling Water or Mimosa: For a refreshing beverage, serve sparkling water with a splash of lemon or indulge in a classic mimosa for a celebratory feel.

Easy Savory French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for savory French toast?
Using 1-2 day old challah or baguette is ideal for the best texture and flavor in your Easy Savory French Toast. Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture without falling apart, ensuring each bite is flavorful and perfectly custardy.

How long can I store leftover savory French toast?
You can store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, it’s best to wrap it tightly to prevent moisture from escaping, ensuring you can still enjoy that delightful flavor later on.

Can I freeze savory French toast? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Easy Savory French Toast, first let it cool completely. Then, lay the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2 hours until solid, then transfer the slices to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. This way, you can have a delicious breakfast ready to go!

What should I do if my French toast is soggy?
If you find the bread is too soggy, you may have soaked it for too long. For future attempts, aim for a soak time of 10-30 seconds, depending on the thickness of the bread. Ensuring the skillet is preheated properly is also crucial—this helps achieve that crispy exterior while maintaining the flavorful interior.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider with this recipe?
This Easy Savory French Toast is a great option for those who are dairy-free, as it uses unsweetened almond milk. However, keep in mind that it does contain eggs; if you’re looking for an egg substitute, you could try silken tofu or a commercial egg replacer. Always check for any nut allergies if serving to others!