Silky, tangy hollandaise, buttery crab, and creamy avocado stacked atop crisp English muffins—this Crab and Avocado Eggs Benedict is the kind of breakfast that feels like a treat, but is secretly surprisingly easy to whip up. Ready in 25 minutes, this elevated classic is a go-to for brunches, lazy Saturdays, or any weeknight when you want something special without a lot of fuss. Each bite is a perfect layering of textures, with a satisfying balance between richness and freshness that will win over anyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Elegance: Yes, you really can serve up restaurant-worthy brunch at home—no chef’s hat required. This recipe is simple enough for busy mornings yet impressive enough for a special occasion.
- Layered Flavors and Textures: Crunchy muffins, silky yolks, sweet crab, tangy tomato, and creamy avocado crowned with luxurious hollandaise—every bite is pure joy.
- Customizable: Easily switch up ingredients to fit cravings, dietary needs, or what’s on hand (tips below).
- Fast and Fuss-Free: All done in under half an hour. Even the hollandaise sauce is a breeze thanks to the blender method—no need to stand and whisk!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Blender Hollandaise: This is the soul of Eggs Benedict—rich, lemony, and buttery. Using a blender keeps things simple and basically fail-proof.
- English Muffins: Classic and delightfully crisp when toasted, they soak up all that delicious sauce. Feel free to sub in gluten-free muffins if you like.
- Poached Eggs: Dreamy, runny yolks take this dish over the top. Poaching in advance is a time-saver, and you can find plenty of tips online if you’re new to it.
- Cooked Crab: Lump crab meat brings an indulgent, slightly sweet seafood flavor. Fresh is best, but high-quality canned or frozen crab works in a pinch.
- Tomato Slices: For a fresh, tangy bite and a splash of color.
- Avocado: Sliced for that creamy, buttery layer—essential for luxurious texture.
- Paprika: A dusting on top isn’t just for looks; it adds a hint of warmth and depth.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning and highlighting flavors.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
Looking to put your own spin on this Eggs Benedict? Here are a few simple ideas:
- Swap the Crab: Try smoked salmon, cooked shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian take.
- Add Greens: Layer with baby spinach or arugula for freshness and extra nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle with cayenne instead of paprika, or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the hollandaise for heat.
- Bread Alternatives: Sourdough, gluten-free muffins, or even toasted brioche make delightful bases.
- Citrus Hollandaise: Add a little orange or lime zest to the sauce for a different zing.
How to Make Crab and Avocado Eggs Benedict
Step 1: Prep the Hollandaise
Make your blender hollandaise sauce first. Keep it gently warm over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally so it stays silky.
Step 2: Toast the Muffins
Split the English muffins and toast until they’re golden and crisp on the outside (this makes sure they won’t go soggy under the sauce).
Step 3: Poach the Eggs
Poach the eggs to soft, runny-yolk perfection. If making for a group or ahead, you can hold poached eggs in warm water for a few minutes while you finish the other components.
Step 4: Warm the Crab
Briefly warm the cooked crab in the microwave (about 45 seconds—it’s seafood, so just enough to take off the chill without drying it out).
Step 5: Assemble Like a Pro
Build your benedict: Place two muffin halves on a plate. Add a spoonful of hollandaise to each. Layer on some tomato slices, avocado, then a perfectly poached egg, and top generously with warm crab meat. Spoon over a little more hollandaise. Finish with a sprinkle of paprika, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Serve warm, with plenty of napkins handy for that glorious yolk.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Hollandaise Help: Don’t let hollandaise intimidate you. The blender method is so reliable! If it thickens too much, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to loosen it.
- Eggs in Advance: You can poach eggs in advance and rewarm them in hot (not boiling) water for 30 seconds—great if making breakfast for a crowd.
- Crab Quality: Your dish will only be as good as the crab you use. Pick good, fresh lump crabmeat for best results.
- Assembly Line: Set up your ingredients ahead for smooth, quick building. Toasted muffins and warm sauce make all the difference!
- Don’t Overload: For best texture, avoid piling too much on each muffin half, so everything stays stacked (and scoopable) on the plate.
How to Serve
This Crab and Avocado Eggs Benedict is a star on its own, but you can really turn it into a complete meal with some easy pairings:
- Fresh Sides: Serve with a light arugula salad, citrusy fruit salad, or simple roasted asparagus.
- Fancy Up Brunch: Add a mimosa, sparkling water, or a good cup of coffee for the full brunch experience.
- For Entertaining: Arrange on a platter and garnish with chives, herbs, or microgreens for a restaurant-style look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store any assembled benedicts (without sauce) in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep hollandaise separate in a sealed container.
Freezing
Not recommended: Avocado and eggs don’t freeze well, and you’ll lose that luscious texture.
Reheating
Gently rewarm crab and muffins in the oven or microwave. Hollandaise can be set over low heat with a splash of warm water, whisked until it returns to its original creamy consistency. Eggs can be rewarmed in hot water for about 30 seconds.
FAQs
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Can I use canned crab instead of fresh crab?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality lump crabmeat—just drain it well and check for any stray shells. The key is to use the freshest option available for the best flavor.
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What’s the easiest way to poach eggs?
Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer, add a splash of vinegar (if you like), and gently slide in cold eggs. Simmer for about 3 minutes for runny yolks, or 4 for more set. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
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Can I make hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
You can make it about 1–2 hours ahead and keep it warm over very low heat, or in a thermos. Just don’t microwave or boil it to reheat—gently whisk over low heat if it thickens.
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What’s a good substitute for English muffins?
Toasted sourdough rounds, crusty bread, or gluten-free English muffins work beautifully. Even delicate brioche or croissants can be a fun twist!
Final Thoughts
Crab and Avocado Eggs Benedict turns classic brunch into something uniquely delicious, layered, and just fun to make. It’s simple, quick, and feels incredibly special—whether for a group brunch or a solo breakfast treat. Give it a try, mix things up as the mood strikes, and discover a new favorite way to enjoy Eggs Benedict. Here’s to stress-free mornings that taste five-star!
PrintCrab and Avocado Eggs Benedict Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crab and Avocado Eggs Benedict brings a delicious coastal twist to a classic brunch favorite. Tender crab, creamy avocado, and ripe tomato are layered on toasted English muffins, topped with silky hollandaise, and finished off with perfectly poached eggs. This dish is elegant, satisfying, and sure to impress with its rich flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
For the Benedict
- 2 English muffins, split and toasted
- 1 cup cooked, flaked crab (about 1 pound)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 avocado, pitted and sliced
- 4 poached eggs
For the Hollandaise
- 1/2 cup blender hollandaise sauce
For Assembly
- Paprika, for garnish
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Hollandaise: Make the blender hollandaise sauce according to your preferred recipe. Keep the hollandaise warm over low heat in a small saucepan on the stove until ready to use.
- Toast the Muffins: Split the English muffins in half and toast until golden brown and crisp. Set aside.
- Poach the Eggs: Prepare 4 poached eggs using your preferred method. Keep them warm while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Warm the Crab: Place the cooked, flaked crab in a microwave-safe bowl and warm in the microwave for about 45 seconds, or until just heated through.
- Assemble the Benedict: Place two toasted muffin halves on each plate. Top each half with a spoonful of hollandaise sauce, a few slices of tomato, avocado slices, one poached egg, and 1/4 cup of the warmed crab. Spoon more hollandaise sauce over the top.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle each benedict with paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy your gourmet brunch!
Notes
- Use the freshest crab available for the best flavor.
- Prepare the poached eggs and hollandaise just before serving for optimal texture and temperature.
- You can substitute smoked salmon or cooked shrimp for the crab for variety.
- Serve with mixed greens or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (2 muffin halves)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 350mg