There’s something undeniably satisfying about the sizzle of crispy latkes hitting the hot oil, isn’t there? When I decided to combine this beloved tradition with the classic brunch favorite, Eggs Benedict, I was on a quest to create something truly special: Easy Latke Eggs Benedict. This dish not only delivers a delightful crunch that outshines the typical English muffin, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brings a unique twist to your weekend gatherings. With minimal prep time and the added bonus of being a hearty and indulgent meal, you’ll surely impress family and friends (or even treat yourself!). Ready to take your brunch game to a whole new level? Let’s dive into this crispy delight!

Why You’ll Love Easy Latke Eggs Benedict

Indulgent Flavor Combinations: Each bite is packed with crispy latkes paired with perfectly poached eggs, creating a delightful contrast that’s bound to satisfy.

Unique Twist on a Classic: This recipe transforms traditional brunch with a potato twist, making it stand out and memorable for all your brunch gatherings.

Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward instructions, you’ll find that making this dish is a breeze, even for novice cooks or busy weekends.

Versatile Toppings: From smoked salmon to fresh vegetables, you can customize it to your liking, resembling the delicious options found in Cottage Cheese Eggs or Breakfast Ring Eggs.

Perfect for Entertaining: With its stunning presentation, this dish is sure to impress guests at any brunch, proving to be a hit every time.

Easy Latke Eggs Benedict Ingredients

For the Latkes
• Russet Potatoes – Provide the structure and crispiness; choose firm potatoes without green spots for the best results.
• Yellow Onion – Adds moisture and flavor that enhances the latkes’ taste.
• Eggs – Used in both the latkes and for poaching; they add richness and improve texture.
• Matzo Meal or All-Purpose Flour – Binds the latkes together; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to suit your personal taste.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat and depth to the overall flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying the latkes and ensuring they become perfectly crispy.

For the Poached Eggs
• Vinegar – Added to poaching water to help keep egg whites cohesive.

For the Hollandaise Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a smooth, creamy texture that is the hallmark of hollandaise.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds necessary acidity and brightness to balance the richness.

For Garnish
• Smoked Salmon – Optional but enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
• Chives & Red Onion – Bring freshness and color to your dish, elevating its presentation.

Ready to experience the joy of crafting this Easy Latke Eggs Benedict? These ingredients will set the stage for a delightful brunch classic that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Latke Eggs Benedict

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Begin by grating the russet potatoes and yellow onion using a box grater or food processor. Transfer the grated mixture into a bowl filled with salted water and allow it to soak for up to an hour. This step helps remove excess starch, ensuring that your latkes turn out crispy. After soaking, you’ll notice the potatoes appearing slightly translucent.

Step 2: Drain & Dry
Once soaked, drain the potatoes and onion thoroughly in a colander. To remove any remaining moisture, wrap the mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly. Getting rid of excess liquid is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness in your latkes. Everything should feel dry and ready to mix.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained potato-onion mixture with eggs, matzo meal (or all-purpose flour), kosher salt, and black pepper. Use a fork to mix everything until well combined. The mixture should hold together without being too wet. This will form the base for your delicious Easy Latke Eggs Benedict.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to create a shallow layer about 1/4 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers; this signals that it’s hot enough for frying. A good test is to drop in a tiny spoonful of the latke mixture; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 5: Fry Latkes
Spoon generous amounts of the latke mixture into the hot oil, forming 3-inch rounds, spacing them apart to prevent sticking. Fry the latkes for 6-10 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 6: Poach Eggs
In a pot, bring water to a gentle simmer and add a splash of vinegar, which helps the egg whites firm up. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide it into the simmering water. Poach the eggs for 4-5 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. Use a slotted spoon to lift the eggs out and drain them on a paper towel.

Step 7: Make Hollandaise
In a heat-proof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Slowly whisk in the melted unsalted butter until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Remove it from heat and keep warm while you assemble the dish.

Step 8: Assemble
To build your Easy Latke Eggs Benedict, place one crispy latke on a plate as the base. Layer it with a slice of smoked salmon, followed by a perfectly poached egg. Generously drizzle with the warm hollandaise sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives and thin slices of red onion. Serve immediately for a delightful brunch experience!

Easy Latke Eggs Benedict Variations

Feel free to personalize your Easy Latke Eggs Benedict and make it your own with these fun twists!

Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a sweeter, earthy flavor that adds depth to every bite.
Herbed Latkes: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or chives for an herbal pop that enhances the latkes’ flavor profile.
Vegetarian Delight: Skip the smoked salmon and top with sautéed spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-packed meal.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the latke mixture for a spicy kick that balances the richness of the hollandaise.
Cheesy Latkes: Fold in grated cheese like cheddar or feta into the latke mix for an extra layer of flavor that melts into every bite.
Fresh Veggie Garnish: Top with sliced avocado or diced tomatoes for added creaminess and freshness, complementing the richness of the dish.
Savory Hollandaise: Infuse your hollandaise sauce with fresh herbs or mustard for a unique twist that elevates the dish to new heights.
Crunchy Topping: Add crispy bacon bits or toasted nuts as a topping to incorporate a delightful crunch and another dimension of flavor.

Don’t forget to pair this dish with a light salad or fruit to balance the richness! If you love crispy potatoes, you might enjoy dishes like Eggs Hash Brown or Mexican Eggs Benedict for even more delicious brunch ideas. Enjoy your culinary creativity!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Latke Eggs Benedict are a perfect choice for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the latkes up to 24 hours in advance; simply fry them as directed, then let them cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. To maintain their crispy texture, reheat the latkes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving. As for the hollandaise sauce, it can be made ahead and kept warm on the stove with a little water whisked in to prevent thickening. When you’re ready to enjoy, just poach your eggs and assemble for a brunch that’s just as delicious and impressive as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Easy Latke Eggs Benedict

Crispy Latke Success: Ensure you squeeze out all excess moisture from the grated potatoes. Any leftover moisture can lead to soggy latkes that won’t hold their crunch.

Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the vegetable oil hot enough to shimmer but not smoking. If the oil is too low, your latkes will absorb oil and become greasy instead of perfectly crispy.

Perfect Poaching Technique: Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water before adding the eggs. This helps them maintain a lovely shape while poaching, essential for presentation with your Easy Latke Eggs Benedict.

Hollandaise Consistency: If your hollandaise sauce thickens too much, whisk in a little warm water to achieve a smooth consistency. Always keep it warm while you assemble the dish.

Serving Warm: For the best experience, serve your latkes and eggs immediately after preparation. Latkes can lose their crispness if left to sit too long. Enjoy them fresh out of the pan!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Latke Eggs Benedict

Fridge: Store leftover latkes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep hollandaise sauce separately to maintain its texture.

Freezer: Latkes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Reheating: Reheat latkes in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for optimal crispiness. For the hollandaise, whisk in a little warm water while reheating gently to restore creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare latke mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just fry them just before serving your Easy Latke Eggs Benedict for a fresh, crispy experience!

What to Serve with Easy Latke Eggs Benedict?

Enhance your brunch experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with this crispy dish.

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the latkes and hollandaise.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado provides a smooth texture that complements the crispy latkes while enhancing the meal’s heartiness.
Roasted Asparagus: Bright, roasted asparagus brings a pop of color and a lovely crunch, creating an elegant touch to your brunch table.
Smoked Salmon Platter: Serve with a platter of smoked salmon garnished with capers and dill for an elegant appetizer that echoes the salmon topping.
Fresh Fruit Medley: Offer a colorful array of seasonal fruits for a touch of sweetness and brightness, balancing the savory flavors on your plate.
Sparkling Wine: Pour chilled sparkling wine or mimosas to elevate your brunch. The effervescence adds a festive feel, perfectly matching the indulgence of the meal.

Let these delightful pairings transport your brunch from good to unforgettable!

Easy Latke Eggs Benedict Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for latkes?
Absolutely! When selecting russet potatoes for latkes, look for firm potatoes without any green spots or blemishes. The fresher, the better; this ensures they provide the right texture and crispiness.

How can I store leftover Easy Latke Eggs Benedict?
For the best results, store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the hollandaise sauce separately to maintain its texture. Simply reheat the latkes in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze the latkes? How do I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your latkes! To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

What if my hollandaise sauce thickens too much?
Very! If your hollandaise sauce thickens beyond your desired consistency, simply whisk in a bit of warm water until it reaches the right creaminess. Keeping it warm during assembly helps too, but always whisk gently to restore its smooth texture.

Are there dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Definitely! If you have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute matzo meal with gluten-free flour to accommodate your dietary needs. Additionally, for those preferring vegetarian options, you can skip the smoked salmon or replace it with sautéed spinach or fresh avocado for added flavor and nutrients.

Can I make the latke mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the latke mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve your Easy Latke Eggs Benedict, just fry the latkes right before serving to ensure they remain crispy. Enjoying fresh latkes will elevate your brunch experience!