Healthy Breakfast Recipes

High Protein Eggs Benedict with Turkey and Greek Yogurt Hollandaise

High ProteinNut-Free
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time15 min
Servings2
Calories410 kcal
Health Score7/10
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High Protein Eggs Benedict with Turkey and Greek Yogurt Hollandaise

High Protein Eggs Benedict with Turkey and Greek Yogurt Hollandaise takes one of the most beloved brunch dishes and rebuilds it from the ground up with a clear nutritional purpose. Each serving delivers 34 grams of protein while keeping the total calorie count at 410, which is a meaningful difference from the traditional butter-heavy version that can easily tip past 600 calories before you add a side. The swap from Canadian bacon to lean turkey breast and from classic hollandaise to a Greek yogurt-based sauce is not a compromise. It is a considered upgrade that keeps the layered structure and rich feel of the original while making it a genuinely sustaining morning meal. This recipe suits anyone who wants a proper sit-down breakfast that will hold them through a long morning without the post-brunch slump. It also comes together faster than you might expect, which makes it a realistic choice for a weekend morning rather than a special occasion only. The result is a plate that looks impressive and eats well.

The ingredient list here is doing a lot of specific work. Whole grain English muffins provide the fibre foundation, contributing to the 5 grams of fibre per serving, which slows digestion and keeps blood sugar steadier than refined white muffins would. Lean turkey breast is one of the leanest animal proteins available, bringing substantial protein with very little saturated fat compared to the traditional ham or bacon used in classic versions. The four whole eggs add further protein alongside fat-soluble vitamins including vitamin D and choline, which supports brain function. Full-fat Greek yogurt forms the base of the hollandaise and provides around 10 grams of protein per 100 grams alongside live cultures that support gut health. Egg yolks thicken the sauce and carry fat-soluble nutrients. Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce and balances its richness. Dijon mustard adds depth and acts as a mild emulsifier. Ground turmeric gives the sauce its golden colour and brings anti-inflammatory curcumin into the dish in a natural and unforced way. Smoked paprika adds a gentle warmth that rounds out the flavour of the sauce without overpowering it.

When you build this plate, the visual payoff is real. The toasted English muffin halves have a firm, slightly chewy base that holds up under the layers without going soggy quickly. The turkey breast sits warm and tender on top, pale and clean against the gold of the sauce. The poached eggs, done properly with a splash of apple cider vinegar in simmering water to help the whites hold together, should have set whites with a yolk that gives way when you cut into it, sending a slow run of golden richness into the layers below. The Greek yogurt hollandaise is whisked with the egg yolks over gentle heat until it thickens to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. It is tangier than the butter version, with a fresh citrus note from the lemon juice and a mild heat from the paprika. Chives scattered over the top add a faint onion sharpness and a clean green colour that lifts the whole plate. The smell when you pour the warm sauce is bright and savoury with a hint of smoke.

This recipe supports several specific health goals at once. At 34 grams of protein per serving, it contributes meaningfully to daily protein targets for muscle maintenance, which becomes increasingly important for adults over 35. The high protein content also promotes satiety, making this a practical choice for anyone managing their appetite across the morning. At 28 grams of carbohydrates, largely from whole grain sources, it provides sustained energy without a large glycaemic spike. The 16 grams of fat come primarily from eggs and Greek yogurt, with a profile that includes beneficial unsaturated fats. This recipe fits a high protein eating approach and works for those following a general balanced diet or a higher protein fat loss strategy. It is not suitable for vegans, but it is gluten-adaptable by swapping the English muffin for a gluten-free alternative. People in body recomposition phases, athletes with morning training sessions, and anyone recovering from illness who needs nutrient-dense food will find this recipe a practical and satisfying option.

For meal prep, the components can be partially prepared in advance without losing much quality. The Greek yogurt hollandaise keeps well in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, to prevent the yogurt from splitting. The turkey breast can be sliced and stored in an airtight container for three to four days. Poaching eggs fresh is always best, but if you need to get ahead, you can poach them slightly underdone, transfer them to cold water, and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat by lowering them into hot water for around 60 seconds before serving. The English muffins can be toasted fresh in under two minutes. For variations, swap the turkey for smoked salmon and add a handful of capers for a different flavour profile. A layer of wilted spinach between the turkey and the egg adds iron and extra fibre. Replacing the whole grain muffin with a thick slice of toasted sourdough changes the texture entirely but works well. The full recipe card below has all the timings and quantities laid out clearly.

Ingredients

Serves:2
  • 2 whole whole grain English muffins (split and toasted)
  • 150 g lean sliced turkey breast (deli-style or freshly roasted, about 4 slices)
  • 4 large eggs (as fresh as possible for best poaching)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for poaching water)
  • 120 g full-fat Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
  • 2 large egg yolks (for the hollandaise)
  • 1.5 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.3 tsp ground turmeric (for colour and anti-inflammatory benefits)
  • 0.3 tsp smoked paprika (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped, for garnish)
  • 0.3 tsp sea salt (to taste)
  • 0.1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1 tsp olive oil (for warming turkey)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Start by making the Greek yogurt hollandaise. Set a small heatproof bowl over a saucepan of barely simmering water, making sure the bowl does not touch the water. Add the egg yolks, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the bowl. Whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and turns pale.

    Keep the heat on the lowest setting possible. High heat will scramble the yolks rather than thicken them.

  2. 2

    Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully smooth and combined. The sauce should be thick, glossy, and pourable. Set aside and cover loosely to keep warm.

    If the sauce thickens too much as it sits, stir in a teaspoon of warm water to loosen it.

  3. 3

    Fill a wide, deep saucepan with about 8 cm of water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the apple cider vinegar. While the water heats, crack each egg into its own small ramekin or cup.

    Using individual cups means you can slide all eggs into the water quickly and confidently without breaking the yolks.

  4. 4

    Toast the English muffin halves in a toaster until golden and crisp at the edges. Arrange them cut-side up on two plates.

  5. 5

    Warm the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey breast slices and cook for about 30 to 45 seconds per side until heated through and lightly golden at the edges. Place one slice of turkey on each toasted muffin half.

    Do not overcook the turkey. You just want it warm and lightly coloured, not dry or tough.

  6. 6

    Bring the poaching water to a very gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. Stir the water with a spoon to create a slow swirl. Gently slide two eggs into the swirl, one at a time. Cook for 3 to 3.5 minutes for a runny yolk, or up to 4.5 minutes for a firmer set. Remove with a slotted spoon and rest briefly on a folded paper towel to drain.

    Poach in two batches if your pan is not wide enough. Keep the first batch warm in a bowl of hot water while you cook the second.

  7. 7

    Place one poached egg on top of each turkey-covered muffin half. Spoon a generous tablespoon of the Greek yogurt hollandaise over each egg. Finish with a dusting of smoked paprika and a scattering of fresh chives. Serve immediately.

    Assemble and serve as quickly as possible so the eggs stay warm and the yolks stay runny.

Nutrition per serving

410kcal

Calories

34g

Protein

28g

Carbs

16g

Fat

5g

Fibre

5g

Sugar

610mg

Sodium

Pro Tips

  • Use eggs that are as fresh as possible. The whites will be tighter and hold together much better during poaching.

  • Make the hollandaise first and keep it warm over the hot water bath with the heat off. It holds well for up to 15 minutes.

  • If you want extra protein, add a second slice of turkey to each muffin half.

  • Whole grain muffins can vary in size, so look for ones with at least 3g of fibre per serving for the best nutritional benefit.

  • A light sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on the turkey before warming adds great flavour without extra calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the hollandaise sauce ahead of time?

You can make the Greek yogurt hollandaise up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently over a double boiler or in 15-second microwave bursts, stirring between each, until warmed through. Do not let it boil or it may split.

How do I know when the poached eggs are done?

Lift each egg gently with a slotted spoon and press the white lightly with your fingertip. The white should feel firm and set all the way around while the yolk gives slightly under pressure. For a fully runny yolk, aim for 3 to 3.5 minutes in gently simmering water.

Is this recipe actually high in protein?

Yes. Each serving provides around 34 grams of protein, coming from the whole eggs, egg yolks in the sauce, Greek yogurt, and lean turkey breast. This makes it significantly higher in protein than a traditional eggs benedict, which typically provides around 14 to 18 grams per serving.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of turkey breast slices?

Absolutely. Turkey bacon works really well here and adds a smoky, slightly crispy element that is delicious. Simply cook it in a dry skillet until crispy and layer it over the muffin in the same way. The protein content will be similar.

What can I use instead of English muffins to lower the carbs?

For a lower carb version, try using thick slices of roasted portobello mushroom caps or slices of roasted sweet potato as your base. Both options hold up well under the eggs and sauce and add extra nutrients and fibre.

Variations

  • Smoked Turkey and Avocado Benedict

    Add two thin slices of ripe avocado beneath the poached egg for healthy fats and extra creaminess. Use smoked turkey breast slices for a deeper, more complex flavour that pairs beautifully with the lemony hollandaise.

  • Spinach and Turkey Florentine Benedict

    Wilt a handful of fresh baby spinach in the turkey skillet before assembling. Layer the wilted spinach between the turkey and the poached egg for extra iron, folate, and a gorgeous green colour.

  • Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Benedict

    Swap the whole grain English muffins for round slices of roasted sweet potato, about 1.5cm thick, roasted at 200C for 20 minutes until tender. This makes the recipe completely gluten free and adds natural sweetness and beta-carotene.

  • Spicy Turkey Benedict

    Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and a few drops of hot sauce to the hollandaise. Top the assembled benedict with sliced fresh jalapeno and extra smoked paprika for a version with real heat and a metabolism-boosting kick.

Substitutions

  • Full-fat Greek yogurtLow-fat Greek yogurt or skyr (Low-fat versions work but the sauce will be slightly less rich. Skyr gives a thicker, tangier result that works very well.)
  • Whole grain English muffinsGluten-free English muffins or roasted portobello mushrooms (Gluten-free muffins keep the dish very similar in texture. Portobello mushrooms are the best low-carb, gluten-free alternative.)
  • Fresh lemon juiceWhite wine vinegar free of alcohol, or lime juice (Apple cider vinegar can also work in a pinch and adds a slightly different but pleasant tang to the hollandaise.)
  • Lean turkey breast slicesTurkey bacon or chicken breast slices (Turkey bacon adds a smokier flavour. Thinly sliced cooked chicken breast is a great option if you have leftovers in the fridge.)
  • Dijon mustardWholegrain mustard or yellow mustard (Wholegrain mustard adds a slightly coarser texture to the sauce and a nuttier flavour. Yellow mustard is milder and sweeter.)

🧊 Storage

This recipe is best eaten fresh and immediately after assembly. Leftover poached eggs can be stored in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours and reheated by placing them in hot water for 60 seconds. The hollandaise sauce stores in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Toasted muffins and turkey should be stored separately in the fridge and reassembled fresh when needed.

📅 Make Ahead

The Greek yogurt hollandaise can be prepared the night before and refrigerated. The turkey slices can also be pre-portioned and stored in the fridge. On the morning, simply reheat the sauce gently, warm the turkey, toast the muffins, and poach the eggs fresh for best results.