Baked Eggs in a Basket is a fun and tasty way to start the day! You take a slice of bread, cut a hole in it, and bake it with eggs right in the middle. Simple, right?
This dish is a breakfast winner because it’s quick and can be topped with cheese, herbs, or maybe bacon if you’re feeling adventurous! I love making it for brunch with friends—it always gets smiles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are key for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use medium eggs, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Bread: I recommend using round bread rolls for a cute presentation. However, thick slices of brioche or sourdough work wonderfully as well. Gluten-free bread is a great substitute too, if needed!
Butter: Butter adds a nice richness, but you can swap it with olive oil or a dairy-free spread if preferred.
Cheese: Shredded cheese adds flavor and creaminess. I love cheddar or mozzarella, but feel free to use any cheese you enjoy. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives brighten up the dish. If you don’t have them, dried herbs like thyme or a pinch of Italian seasoning work just fine.
How Do You Hollow Out Bread Without Making a Mess?
Hollowing out the bread might seem tricky, but here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a serrated knife to gently cut around the edge of the bread, leaving a sturdy border.
- Carefully lift out the center. You can use your fingers to remove excess bread, or a spoon works well too!
- Make sure not to cut through the bottom so your egg stays nestled inside.
Take your time with this step to get a well that holds the egg nicely without crumbling. Enjoy the baking process—it’s quite satisfying!
Baked Eggs In A Basket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 large eggs
- 4 round bread rolls or thick slices of bread (like brioche or sourdough)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- Optional: Cooked bacon bits or ham pieces
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes of baking time. So, in about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a wonderful breakfast ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab your bread rolls or thick slices of bread. Using a small knife, carefully hollow out the center of each one. Make sure to leave a sturdy edge so it can hold the egg well!
2. Butter Your Bread:
Once you’ve made your wells, take the softened butter and lightly spread it inside each hollowed bread roll or slice. This adds a nice flavor and helps them turn golden in the oven!
3. Get Ready to Bake:
Now, place your prepared bread rolls or slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This will prevent any sticking when it’s time to serve!
4. Crack and Season:
Next, gently crack one egg into each hollowed-out bread basket. You want to keep the yolk intact, so take your time. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top, and if you like, add some shredded cheese or bacon bits for extra flavor!
5. Baking Time:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the egg whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. If you prefer your yolks firmer, leave them in a bit longer!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, carefully take them out of the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a lovely touch. Serve warm, right out of the basket, and enjoy this delightful breakfast or brunch treat!
With crispy edges and a warm, tender center, these Baked Eggs in a Basket make for the perfect start to your day. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While round bread rolls are traditional, you can also use thick slices of brioche, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the egg!
What If I Want to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
No problem at all! Simply omit the bacon bits or ham; you can add extra veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers for a flavorful vegetarian option. Just sauté veggies lightly before adding them to the bread!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave until warmed through—but note that the bread may get a bit soft!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Eggs Cook Perfectly?
For perfectly baked eggs, keep an eye on them in the oven! If you prefer runny yolks, aim for 12-15 minutes of baking time. If you like them firmer, check every minute after 15 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. Remember, the eggs will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven!
