Baked Eggs
Baked eggs are a delightful way to start your day, offering a warm, comforting dish that’s both simple to make and full of flavor. This recipe showcases the beauty of eggs baked to perfection, topped with fresh ingredients that enhance their taste. Whether enjoyed solo or as part of a larger brunch spread, baked eggs are a versatile dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup bell pepper (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 egg with toppings) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g protein, 18g fat, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and spinach, cooking until heated through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Make small wells in the mixture for the eggs.
- Crack an egg into each well carefully.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top of the eggs.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative or use different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also replace fresh herbs with dried ones if fresh aren’t available.
Serving and Pairings
Baked eggs pair wonderfully with crusty bread, avocado slices, or a side salad. Serve with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for a refreshing breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Baked eggs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be frozen if necessary; however, the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using cold ingredients can affect cooking time.
- Overcrowding the skillet may prevent proper baking.
- Not seasoning adequately can leave the dish bland.
- Forgetting to cover the skillet can dry out the eggs.
- Cooking too long can result in rubbery eggs.
- Using a non-oven-safe skillet can be hazardous.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique tastes.
- Adjust cooking time based on your preferred egg doneness.
- Try adding cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier dish.
- Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
FAQs
Can I make baked eggs in advance?
While it’s best to enjoy baked eggs fresh, you can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and add the eggs just before baking.
What variations can I try with baked eggs?
You can customize baked eggs by adding different vegetables, meats, or spices. Try incorporating avocados, kale, or feta cheese for new flavors.
How do I know when baked eggs are done?
Baked eggs are done when the whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny. You can check by gently shaking the skillet; the whites should be firm while the yolks jiggle slightly.
Can I use a different baking dish?
Yes, you can use any oven-safe dish to bake eggs. Just ensure it’s greased well to prevent sticking.
Are baked eggs healthy?
Baked eggs can be a healthy option, providing a good source of protein and nutrients from vegetables. Adjusting ingredients can make them fit various dietary needs.
Conclusion
Baked eggs are a delightful and satisfying dish that can be customized to suit any palate. With their rich flavors and comforting texture, they make for a perfect breakfast or brunch option. Easy to prepare and delicious, baked eggs are sure to become a household favorite.
Baked Eggs
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs basil or parsley for garnish
- Red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup diced onion optional
- 1/4 cup bell pepper optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and spinach, cooking until heated through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Make small wells in the mixture for the eggs.
- Crack an egg into each well carefully.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top of the eggs.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
