Savory French Toast Recipe - Laura Vitale - Laura in the Kitchen Episode 445
Savory French Toast Recipe - Laura Vitale - Laura in the Kitchen Episode 445 is a easy Italian recipe that serves 2. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Laura in the Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 20 min
Cost: $2.28 total, $1.14 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 slices Ciabatta Bread (day‑old, sturdy)
- 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 0.5 cup Milk (whole milk for richness)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (finely chopped)
- 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (cut into pieces)
- 1 teaspoon Olive Oil (extra virgin)
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Make the Savory Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, chopped fresh thyme, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Time: PT3M
Heat Skillet with Oil and Butter
Place a large skillet over medium heat, add the teaspoon of olive oil and the tablespoon of butter, allowing the butter to melt and the mixture to become shimmering.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium heat
Dip Bread in Custard
One slice at a time, quickly dip each ciabatta slice into the batter, letting it soak for about 2‑3 seconds per side so the custard penetrates without making the bread soggy.
Time: PT2M
Cook First Side
Place the soaked bread slices in the hot skillet and cook for about 4 minutes, until the underside is golden brown.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: Medium heat
Flip and Add Parmesan
Flip the slices, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan on the cooked side, and cook another 2‑3 minutes until the cheese melts and the second side is golden.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium heat
Serve Hot
Remove the French toast from the skillet, let cool briefly, then serve immediately with a fork or knife. Optional: serve with leftover marinara sauce.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 15g
- Carbohydrates
- 35g
- Fat
- 18g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains dairy, Contains gluten
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ciabatta Bread: sourdough, French baguette, Italian bread
- Instead of Eggs: egg substitute, flax egg
- Instead of Milk: any milk, almond milk
- Instead of Fresh Thyme: dried thyme (1 tsp)
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: margarine
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Large Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk batter until smooth and well‑combined.
- Use butter and olive oil together to prevent burning.
- Do not over‑soak the bread; a quick dip is enough.
- Flip only when the first side is golden brown.
- Add extra Parmesan after flipping for melt and flavor.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use day‑old ciabatta for best absorption.
- Grate Parmesan finely for quick melting.
- Season the batter before soaking the bread.
- Maintain medium heat to achieve even browning.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture.
Troubleshooting
Bread becomes soggy.
Soak the bread only briefly, use day‑old bread, and cook on medium heat to evaporate excess moisture.
Parmesan does not melt.
Lower the heat slightly, cover the pan for a minute, or grate the cheese finer for quicker melting.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat before serving.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the batter up to 30 minutes ahead and keep refrigerated.
- Cook the French toast and reheat in a toaster oven for crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Savory French Toast in Italian cuisine?
In Italy, savory French toast, known as "pane fritto" or "frittata di pane," has long been a humble way to use stale bread, turning it into a flavorful breakfast or snack with eggs, cheese, and herbs. It reflects the Italian tradition of minimizing waste and creating comforting dishes from simple pantry staples.
What are the traditional regional variations of Savory French Toast in Italy?
Northern regions often add Parmesan, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, and sometimes a drizzle of olive oil, while southern areas may incorporate pecorino, tomato sauce, or even anchovies. Each region adapts the basic egg‑bread custard to local cheese and flavor preferences.
How is Savory French Toast traditionally served in Italy?
It is typically served hot, sliced into bite‑size pieces, and enjoyed with a sprinkle of extra cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a side of simple tomato sauce. It can be eaten for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a light lunch.
What occasions or celebrations is Savory French Toast traditionally associated with in Italian culture?
Savory French toast is not tied to a specific holiday but is a common comfort food during family gatherings, weekend brunches, and after‑church meals when leftover bread is plentiful. Its quick preparation makes it popular for casual celebrations.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in Italian Savory French Toast versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include day‑old rustic bread (ciabatta or country loaf), eggs, whole milk, fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, and a mix of butter and olive oil. Substitutes can be sourdough bread, dairy‑free milk, dried herbs, or other hard cheeses like Grana Padano.
What other Italian dishes pair well with Savory French Toast?
It pairs nicely with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, a side of sautéed vegetables, or a light tomato‑based marinara sauce. A glass of fresh orange juice or a light Italian white wine complements the richness.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Savory French Toast?
Common errors include over‑soaking the bread, which makes it mushy, using too high heat that burns the butter, and not seasoning the batter before dipping. Also, overcrowding the skillet prevents even browning.
Why does this Savory French Toast recipe use a combination of butter and olive oil instead of just butter?
Butter provides rich flavor, while olive oil raises the smoke point, allowing the toast to cook at a higher temperature without the butter burning. This combo gives a golden crust and buttery taste without bitterness.
Can I make Savory French Toast ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can whisk the batter up to 30 minutes in advance and keep it refrigerated. Cooked toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet or toaster oven to regain crispness.
What does the YouTube channel Laura in the Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Laura in the Kitchen specializes in approachable home‑cooking tutorials, focusing on comfort foods, quick weeknight meals, and creative ways to use pantry staples. Laura often shares personal stories and tips for making classic dishes easier.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Laura in the Kitchen?
Laura in the Kitchen emphasizes simplicity, flavor, and making cooking enjoyable for everyday cooks. Her style blends clear step‑by‑step instructions with friendly commentary, encouraging viewers to experiment and adapt recipes to their own kitchens.
Last updated: August 19, 2026
