Baked Eggs in a Basket is a fun and easy breakfast! Just crack an egg into a slice of bread and bake it until the egg is set. It’s like a cozy little nest for your egg!
This dish is perfect for using up leftover bread. Plus, who can resist that delicious combo of crispy edges and gooey yolk? It’s a brunch win for sure! 🥚🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Rolls: Use medium-sized rolls that are round, like ciabatta or sourdough. If you only have regular sandwich bread, you can make it work by stacking two slices and cutting out a circle in the middle.
Eggs: Fresh eggs are best for this recipe. However, if you’re short on eggs, try using egg whites or a scrambled egg mix as a lighter option, although the look won’t be quite the same.
Butter: I like using butter for that rich flavor, but you can substitute with olive oil or melted coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Chives or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If you don’t have chives, cilantro or green onions are great alternatives. Dried herbs work too; just use less!
How Do I Hollow Out the Bread Rolls Without Making a Mess?
Hollowing out bread rolls can be tricky, but it’s easy with these simple steps. You want a sturdy edge to hold the egg without breaking the bread.
- Slice off just the top of the roll, about 1 inch deep.
- Use your fingers or a spoon to gently remove the soft bread inside, leaving about a 1/2 inch thick wall.
- Be careful not to tear the edges! A serrated knife can help if you need more precision.
Once you have your “basket” ready, it’s all about cracking that egg in and baking it to perfection!
Baked Eggs In A Basket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium bread rolls or buns, preferably round and not too dense
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: a pinch of paprika or red chili flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for about 12-15 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake those delicious egg baskets!
2. Prepare the Bread Baskets:
Take your bread rolls or buns and slice off the top roughly one inch deep to create a “basket.” Using your fingers or a spoon, hollow out the middle of each roll, being sure to leave a sturdy edge that can hold the egg. Make sure not to break the bottom!
3. Butter the Inside:
Spread a little softened butter on the inside of each hollowed out roll. This will give a lovely flavor and help the bread toast beautifully.
4. Get Ready to Bake:
Place all your prepared rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make clean-up a breeze!
5. Add the Eggs:
Carefully crack one egg into each bread basket, trying not to break the yolk. Take your time with this step – it’s okay to go slow!
6. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over each egg. Feel free to add more or less depending on how you like it.
7. Bake Away!
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want the whites to be set, but the yolks should still be slightly runny. If you prefer your yolks fully cooked, you can bake them a little longer.
8. Finishing Touches:
Once they’re ready, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle those lovely chopped chives or parsley on top of each egg basket for a nice pop of color.
9. Optional Garnish:
If you want to add a bit of kick, sprinkle a pinch of paprika or red chili flakes over the top for that extra finish.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your baked eggs warm on a plate, or for a charming presentation, use a basket lined with a clean cloth or napkin. These are delightful with a side of fresh salsa or a simple salad. Enjoy your tasty breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While round bread rolls work best, you can also use sliced bread, baguettes, or even leftover bagels. Just be sure to create a sturdy basket to hold the egg.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries at all! If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs instead. Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Italian seasoning or mixed dried herbs can also add a nice flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Baked Eggs in a Basket is best when fresh, but you can prepare the bread baskets and store them in the fridge for a day. Just fill them with eggs right before baking for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover baked eggs, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, but keep in mind that the bread may lose some crispiness.
