Savory French Toast with Spinach and Mushrooms: A Deliciously Easy Brunch

I’ll never forget the first time I had savory French toast. It was a total game-changer! I was at a small, cozy brunch spot, the kind with mismatched vintage furniture and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I’d always associated French toast with sweet toppings – syrup, fruit, whipped cream – but this was a revelation. The combination of the eggy, slightly crispy bread with the savory toppings was just incredible. It was a perfect balance of textures and flavors, and it felt so much more sophisticated than your average French toast. I knew I had to try making it at home. This Savory French Toast with Spinach and Mushrooms recipe is perfect for beginner cooks because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your brunch game without any fuss, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a surprisingly nutritious and satisfying meal.

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This Savory French Toast with Spinach and Mushrooms recipe is tailor-made for beginner cooks because it focuses on fundamental cooking techniques that are simple to master and will serve you well in countless other recipes. We’re essentially making a custard (a basic mixture of eggs, milk, and seasonings – a technique used for everything from quiches to bread puddings), sautéing mushrooms and spinach (a skill that’s essential for countless dishes, from stir-fries to omelets), and then pan-frying the French toast (a straightforward method that’s quicker and easier than baking). It’s a time-efficient meal, ideal for busy mornings or relaxed weekends when you want a delicious and satisfying brunch without spending hours in the kitchen or creating a mountain of dishes. And while it feels indulgent, this recipe can be a reasonably healthy option. Eggs are packed with protein and essential nutrients, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse full of vitamins and minerals, and mushrooms add earthy flavor and even more vitamins. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe to make it even healthier by using whole-wheat bread for added fiber and reducing the amount of cheese if you prefer. This Savory French Toast is a great way to learn some basic cooking skills while creating a truly flavorful and impressive dish that will become a brunch staple in your repertoire.

Ingredients and Preparation (A Deeper Dive into Deliciousness)

This recipe makes 6 French toasts. You can easily adjust the recipe to make more or less, depending on how many people you’re serving. This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.

Ingredients (The Stars of the Show):

For the Savory French Toast:

• 6 slices of bread (Note 1: See below for bread recommendations)
• 2 large eggs (use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture)
• ⅔ cup milk (whole milk or 2% milk will work best for a richer custard. You can use non-dairy milk as well, but be aware that it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.)
• 3 tbsp parmesan cheese (grated – adds a salty, nutty flavor to the French toast)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning or mixed dried herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary adds a classic Italian flavor)
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder (adjust to your spice preference – you can add more or less depending on how much heat you like)
• Salt and pepper to taste (essential for seasoning the custard and bringing out the flavors)
• 4 tbsp butter (for pan-frying – butter adds richness and helps create a golden-brown crust)

For the Mushroom & Spinach Topping:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (use good quality olive oil for the best flavor)
• 200 grams regular white mushrooms, sliced (about 2 cups – cremini mushrooms or portobello mushrooms also work well)
• 2 cups chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, see Note 2)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder (adds a pungent, savory flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (essential for seasoning the vegetables)
• 1 tbsp dried rosemary (or fresh rosemary, finely chopped – adds a fragrant, earthy flavor)
• 3 tbsp parmesan cheese (grated – adds a salty, nutty flavor to the topping)

For the Spicy Pepper Honey (Optional but highly recommended!):

• Honey (any type – wildflower honey or acacia honey are good choices)
• Black pepper (freshly ground black pepper adds the best flavor)
• Cayenne pepper (adds heat)
• Salt (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
• Paprika (adds a smoky sweetness)

Note 1: Bread Recommendations:

For the French toast, use a sturdy bread that can soak up the custard without becoming soggy. Sourdough, challah, brioche, or even a thick-cut white bread work well. Avoid thin, flimsy bread like pre-sliced sandwich bread, as it will become mushy. Day-old bread is actually ideal for French toast, as it is slightly drier and will absorb the custard better.

Note 2: Spinach Options:

You can use fresh spinach or frozen spinach. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan. This will prevent the topping from becoming watery. Baby spinach leaves can be used whole, while larger spinach leaves should be chopped.

Step-by-Step Instructions (With Extra Tips and Tricks for French Toast Perfection)

Spicy Honey (Optional – But It Makes This Dish Sing!):

1. Heat honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Alternatively, transfer the honey to a microwave-safe glass bowl and microwave it in short bursts (about 15-20 seconds at a time) until it is liquid and warm. Be careful not to overheat the honey.
2. Add freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, a pinch of salt, and paprika to the honey. Mix until well combined. Adjust the spices to your liking. Taste the honey and add more spices if needed.

Mushroom & Spinach Mixture (The Savory Star):

1. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and softened. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the mushrooms to steam instead of brown. If necessary, cook the mushrooms in batches.
3. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mushrooms. Mix well.
4. Add chopped spinach to the pan and cook until it is wilted and fully combined with the mushrooms. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and squeezed dry before adding it to the pan.
5. Remove the mushroom and spinach mixture from the heat and transfer it to a bowl to cool slightly.
6. Add grated parmesan cheese to the mixture and mix well. Set aside.

French Toast Recipe (The Eggy Canvas):

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning or mixed dried herbs, cayenne pepper or chili powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This is your French toast custard. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
2. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a non-stick pan or griddle over medium-low heat. A non-stick pan will prevent the French toast from sticking and make it easier to flip.
3. While the butter melts and coats the pan, take one slice of bread at a time and dip it into the French toast custard, letting it soak for about 3-4 seconds on each side. Make sure the bread is well coated with the custard.
4. Transfer the soaked bread to the hot pan. It’s easier to cook 2-3 bread slices at a time, depending on the size of your pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the French toast from browning properly.
5. Cook the French toast on medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the egg custard is fully cooked. Flip the French toast carefully with a spatula. Add another tablespoon of butter to the pan as needed, letting it melt and coat the pan. The butter will add richness and help create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
6. Repeat with the remaining bread slices.

Assembly (The Grand Finale):

1. Transfer the cooked French toast slices to plates.
2. Top each slice generously with the parmesan spinach & mushroom mixture.
3. Drizzle with spicy honey (if using – and I highly recommend it!).
4. Serve immediately while the French toast is warm and the topping is flavorful.

Beginner Tips and Notes (Words of Wisdom from the Kitchen)

• Bread Selection (The Foundation of French Toast): Using a good quality, sturdy bread is crucial for French toast success. Avoid thin, pre-sliced sandwich bread, as it will become soggy and fall apart. Thick-cut bread, like sourdough, challah, brioche, or even Texas toast, works best. Day-old bread is actually ideal for French toast, as it is slightly drier and will absorb the custard better without becoming mushy.
• Custard Consistency (The Key to Creaminess): Make sure the custard is well combined and smooth. Whisk thoroughly to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated and there are no streaks of egg white. A smooth custard will create a more even and delicious French toast.
• Pan Temperature (The Browning Balance): Cooking the French toast over medium-low heat is essential. Too high of heat will cause the French toast to burn on the outside before the custard is cooked through on the inside. Too low of heat will result in soggy French toast. Medium-low heat allows the French toast to cook slowly and evenly, developing a beautiful golden-brown crust and a perfectly cooked interior.
• Checking for Doneness (The Texture Test): The French toast is done when it is golden brown on both sides and the egg custard is fully cooked. You can gently press down on the center of the French toast – it should feel firm, not mushy or wet. You can also use a knife to cut into the center of the French toast to check if the custard is cooked through. If it is still runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes.

Serving Suggestions (The Perfect Pairings to Elevate Your Meal)

Savory French toast is a delicious and satisfying meal on its own, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. However, it can be further enhanced with some complementary sides to create a more complete and memorable brunch experience.

Complementary Sides (The Delicious Additions):

• A Side of Fresh Fruit (The Sweet and Refreshing Counterpoint): A side of fresh fruit, such as berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries – add sweetness and antioxidants), sliced avocado (adds healthy fats and creaminess), or melon (cantaloupe, watermelon – refreshing and hydrating), provides a touch of sweetness and freshness that complements the savory flavors of the French toast. The fruit also adds vitamins and fiber to the meal.
• A Dollop of Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (The Creamy and Tangy Touch): A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess and tang to the meal, balancing the richness of the French toast and the savory topping. The tanginess also helps to cut through the richness and cleanse the palate.
• A Sprinkle of Red Pepper Flakes (The Heat Factor): A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat to the meal, complementing the spicy pepper honey and adding another layer of flavor. If you like it spicy, don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes!
• A Side Salad (The Light and Refreshing Option): A side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the French toast and the savory topping. The acidity of the vinaigrette helps to cut through the richness and cleanse the palate. A simple green salad or a more elaborate salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers would be delicious options.
• A Mimosa or Bloody Mary (The Brunch Beverages): For a truly special brunch, pair your savory French toast with a mimosa (orange juice and champagne) or a Bloody Mary (a savory tomato-based cocktail). These brunch cocktails complement the flavors of the meal and add a festive touch.

Storage Tips (Keeping it Fresh and Flavorful for Later)

Store leftover savory French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the French toast will still be tasty, the texture may change slightly after being refrigerated and reheated. The bread may become a bit softer, and the topping may lose some of its crispness. It’s best to consume the French toast fresh for the optimal texture and flavor. The topping can also be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:

• Microwave: Reheat the French toast in the microwave for a short period (about 30 seconds to 1 minute), or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, as it can become rubbery.
• Stovetop: Reheat the French toast in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little bit of butter or oil to the pan to prevent sticking. Heat for a few minutes per side, or until heated through. This method is better for maintaining the crispness of the French toast.

Conclusion (A Delicious Farewell and a Call to Culinary Action)

This Savory French Toast with Spinach and Mushrooms recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and easy techniques can create a truly delicious and impressive meal. It’s a fantastic option for a quick and easy brunch, a lazy weekend breakfast, or even a light lunch or dinner. And it’s so customizable that you can make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe and add your own personal touch. Try different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to create your own unique version of this savory French toast. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! Cooking should be an enjoyable and creative experience, not a chore.

Now, I encourage you to try this recipe – you won’t be disappointed! Share your culinary creations and any variations you come up with in the comments below – I’d love to hear about your French toast adventures! Did you try a different bread? Did you add any special toppings or sauces? What did your family or friends think? Let me know! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delicious aroma of sizzling French toast, sautéed mushrooms, and the anticipation of a truly satisfying and flavorful meal! And remember, the best part about cooking is sharing your creations with loved ones. So, invite some friends or family over for brunch and enjoy this delicious and easy Savory French Toast together. It’s a wonderful way to connect, create lasting memories, and savor the fruits (or rather, the French toast!) of your labor. This Savory French Toast with Spinach and Mushrooms is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of good food, good company, and the joy of sharing a delicious and convenient dish. Enjoy every flavorful bite! And who knows? Maybe this will become your new go-to recipe for a quick, easy, and impressive brunch! You might even find yourself making a double or triple batch because it’s just that good. So, go ahead, embrace the simplicity of this recipe, unleash your culinary creativity, and prepare to be amazed by just how delicious and easy this Savory French Toast is. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Bon appétit!