Savory French Toast Sliders

Name: Savory French Toast Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 slices of brioche bread; 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère); 8 slices smoked bacon; Salt and pepper to taste; Butter for cooking; Maple syrup; Dijon mustard

Highlighted under: Simple Weeknight Wonders

I love making Savory French Toast Sliders for brunch gatherings because they combine the best of both worlds: the comforting essence of French toast with a savory twist. The crisp, golden exterior and fluffy inside make them a hit, especially when loaded with cheese and smoked bacon. It's an unexpected dish that never fails to impress my guests. Plus, they're easy to assemble, which means more time enjoying the company and less time in the kitchen.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-16T15:06:29.794Z

While developing this recipe, I wanted to offer a fun alternative to traditional brunch items. Combining classic French toast with savory ingredients was a brilliant experiment! Each bite is packed with flavor, and I found that using a mix of eggs and milk creates the perfect custard base that complements the toppings. I highly recommend letting the bread soak just long enough without becoming too soggy.

One of my favorite tips is to pair these sliders with a zesty dipping sauce. A simple mixture of maple syrup and mustard gives it an extra kick that perfectly balances the savory elements. Experimenting with different cheeses or adding sautéed vegetables can elevate this dish even further!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Unexpected savory spin on a breakfast classic
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside
Quick to make and perfect for sharing

      

Choosing the Right Bread

The type of bread you choose can greatly influence the texture and taste of your Savory French Toast Sliders. Brioche is an excellent choice due to its rich, buttery flavor and soft texture. It absorbs the egg mixture beautifully without becoming too soggy. Alternatively, you can opt for challah or even whole wheat bread for a healthier twist. Just ensure that the bread is cut thick enough to hold the layers of cheese and bacon without falling apart during cooking.

For the best results, use day-old bread. Slightly stale bread has a drier texture that makes it more absorbent for the egg mixture, allowing for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior when cooked. If you're in a pinch and only have fresh bread, lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out before soaking.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Cooking the bacon in a skillet not only adds flavor but also allows you to use the rendered fat to cook the French toast. This method provides a deeper flavor profile, enhancing the smokiness that complements the cheese. After cooking the bacon, don’t wipe out the skillet; this is where the magic happens. Adding butter after the bacon will ensure a perfect golden crisp on your toast. Adjust the heat to medium to prevent burning while letting the butter foam before adding the soaked bread.

After assembling the sliders, a final cook in the skillet is crucial to achieving melty cheese. Keep a close eye on the sliders to avoid overcooking; aim for about a minute per side. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can finish them under the broiler for a minute after the skillet. Just remember to watch them closely, as broilers can quickly go from perfect to burned.

Serving and Variations

While maple syrup and Dijon mustard are classic accompaniments for these sliders, consider getting creative with your toppings. A smear of spicy aioli or a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as chives or parsley, can elevate the dish. For added texture, sliced avocado or a fried egg on top makes for an impressive presentation and packed flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your preference. Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the bacon, while pepper jack can provide a spicy kick. Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute turkey bacon for the smoked bacon and use a low-fat cheese. These small adjustments allow you to cater to dietary preferences without compromising the integrity of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful sliders:

Main Ingredients

8 slices of brioche bread
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
8 slices smoked bacon
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter for cooking

For Serving

Maple syrup
Dijon mustard

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Savory French Toast Sliders:

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of brioche bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a minute on each side.

Cook the Toast

In the same skillet, melt a bit of butter and cook the soaked bread for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

On half of the cooked bread slices, layer cheese and bacon, and then top with the remaining slices.

Final Cook

Return the assembled sliders to the skillet and cook for an additional minute on each side to melt the cheese.

Serve hot with a drizzle of maple syrup mixed with mustard for an exciting twist!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize by adding sautéed vegetables or switching up the cheese to suit your taste. Consider adding a pinch of herbs to the egg mixture for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're hosting a brunch and want to be organized, consider preparing the egg mixture the night before. Store it in the fridge covered tightly, and in the morning, simply soak the bread slices before cooking. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to blend, resulting in a richer taste in the final sliders.

You can also cook the bacon in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to assemble the sliders, just reheat the bacon in the skillet before layering it between the bread. This step ensures that your sliders are warm and ready to go when it's time to serve.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To retain their texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps to restore the crispiness compared to using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sliders. Assemble and cook them as instructed, then allow them to cool completely before wrapping each slider individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, place them directly from the freezer into a preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your French toast is turning out mushy, the likely culprit is oversoaking the bread. Dip each slice quickly to allow just the right amount of egg mixture absorption—about 30 seconds on each side should suffice. Avoid adding too much milk to the egg mixture as well, as this can dilute the flavor and structure.

Alternatively, if you're finding your sliders aren't browning as desired, ensure your skillet is adequately heated and not overcrowded. Leave enough space between each slider, as this allows for heat circulation and promotes a perfectly golden crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, gluten-free bread works well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best results.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before cooking.