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Basil Bacon & Tomato French Toast: A Savory Slice of Sunshine

I can still picture it: lazy Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s, the aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with the sweet scent of sun-ripened tomatoes from her garden. She had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into pure magic, and this Basil Bacon & Tomato French Toast captures that same spirit. It’s more than just a breakfast; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a symphony of salty, savory, and herby flavors that dance on your tongue. Every bite is a reminder of those cherished moments, and I’m thrilled to share this taste of nostalgia with you.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Type: Not Gluten Free

Ingredients

8 slices bacon, trimmed
250 g cherry tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sea salt, to taste
Cracked black pepper, to taste
4 eggs
1/4 cup cream (heavy cream or half-and-half work well)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1/2 cup basil leaves, chopped
20 g butter (about 1 1/2 tablespoons)
8 slices sourdough bread

Equipment Needed

Baking tray
Large bowl
Whisk
Large non-stick frying pan

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F). This high heat will ensure the bacon crisps up beautifully.
Lay the bacon slices on a baking tray, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and deliciously crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
While the bacon is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes. Place them on a separate baking tray and drizzle with the olive oil. Season generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
Roast the tomatoes in the oven for 5 minutes, or until their skins just begin to split. This brief roasting concentrates their sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Remove both trays from the oven and set aside, keeping the bacon and tomatoes warm.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This creates the flavorful custard base for our French toast.
Heat the butter in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the bread to prevent sticking.
Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Allow any excess egg mixture to drip off before placing the bread in the frying pan.
Cook the bread, in batches if necessary, for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The Parmesan cheese in the egg mixture will help create a beautiful, crispy crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and result in soggy French toast.
Once the French toast is cooked, serve immediately with the crispy bacon and roasted cherry tomatoes.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Crispy Bacon Secrets: For extra crispy bacon, try placing the bacon on a wire rack set inside the baking sheet. This allows the fat to drip away, resulting in perfectly crisp bacon.
Herb Infusion: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other fresh herbs to the egg mixture, such as thyme or oregano.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar would all be delicious additions.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before using.
Bread Selection: While sourdough is fantastic, other breads such as brioche or challah work well too.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Basil Bacon & Tomato French Toast is best served immediately while it’s warm and the bacon is crispy. Arrange the French toast on plates, top with the crispy bacon and roasted tomatoes, and garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a toaster oven or frying pan until heated through. The bacon may lose some of its crispness upon refrigeration.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	814.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	405 g	50%
Total Fat	45.1 g	69%
Saturated Fat	17.3 g	86%
Cholesterol	280.6 mg	93%
Sodium	1457.1 mg	60%
Total Carbohydrate	72.2 g	24%
Dietary Fiber	5.4 g	21%
Sugars	3.3 g	N/A
Protein	29.1 g	58%

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a little heat.
Seasonal Tomatoes: In the summer, use heirloom tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use regular tomatoes, but be sure to chop them into smaller pieces before roasting. Roasting time may need to be adjusted.

Q: Can I make this French toast without Parmesan cheese?
A: Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese if you prefer. However, it adds a delicious savory flavor and crispy texture to the French toast.

Q: How do I prevent my French toast from getting soggy?
A: Make sure your frying pan is hot before adding the bread, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Also, avoid soaking the bread in the egg mixture for too long.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
A: While fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every 1/2 cup of fresh basil.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the roasted tomatoes?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the roasted tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

This Basil Bacon & Tomato French Toast is a delightful way to start your day or enjoy a leisurely brunch. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet roasted tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback – and maybe even a picture of your creation! It pairs beautifully with a mimosa or a simple cup of coffee. Enjoy!

Basil Bacon & Tomato French Toast Recipe