Name: Egg in a Hole: A Delightfully Simple Breakfast Staple
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread; 4 large eggs; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste

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Egg in a Hole, also known as Egg in a Basket or One-Eyed Jack, is a simple yet delightful breakfast dish that has been a favorite for generations. This classic comfort food takes just minutes to prepare and delivers a delicious combination of crispy bread, runny egg yolk, and savory flavors that will have you coming back for more.

✨ What Makes This Recipe Special

The beauty of Egg in a Hole lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a visually striking and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or even a quick and easy dinner. The contrast of the crisp bread and the soft, velvety egg yolk is truly a culinary delight, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

4 slices of bread
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

The beauty of this Egg in a Hole recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of bread, eggs, and butter creates a classic breakfast flavor profile that has made this type of recipe perennially popular.

Instructions

Step 1: Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut a circular hole in the center of each slice of bread.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3: Carefully place the bread slices in the skillet and crack an egg into the center of each hole.
Step 4: Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
Step 5: Flip the slices and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Timing Overview

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 5-7 minutes
• Total time: 10-12 minutes

Compared to traditional egg dishes that can take up to 20 minutes to prepare, this Egg in a Hole recipe saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 227
• Protein: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 283mg

These Egg in a Hole provide approximately 20% of your daily protein requirements and 15% of your daily fat needs, making them a nutritionally valuable breakfast option.

🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduced-fat option: Use whole-grain or multigrain bread and substitute 1 tablespoon of olive oil for the butter.
• Lower-carb version: Replace the bread with portobello mushroom caps or slices of zucchini or eggplant.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a plant-based butter or oil instead of regular butter.
• Added protein: Top the cooked egg with a slice of Canadian bacon or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
• Boost vegetables: Serve the Egg in a Hole on a bed of sautéed spinach or tomatoes for added nutrition.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Egg in a Hole.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a complete breakfast.
• Pair with crispy bacon or sausage for a heartier meal.
• Complement the Egg in a Hole with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a classic breakfast combination.
• For a brunch gathering, create an Egg in a Hole platter with various bread options and a selection of toppings like shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or diced tomatoes.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan: Be sure to leave enough space between the bread slices to allow the eggs to cook properly.
• Burning the bread: Keep a close eye on the bread and adjust the heat as needed to prevent it from becoming too crisp or charred.
• Undercooking the eggs: Cook the eggs until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny for the perfect Egg in a Hole experience.

📦 Storage & Leftovers

These Egg in a Hole retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked Egg in a Hole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the bread with the holes cut out, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a resealable bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw and proceed with the recipe.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cooked Egg in a Hole to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, remove the wrapping and place in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

❓ FAQs

Can I make Egg in a Hole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Egg in a Hole in advance. Cut the holes in the bread and store the prepared slices in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, simply crack the eggs into the holes and proceed with the recipe.

Can I use different types of bread for Egg in a Hole?

Absolutely! While classic white bread is a popular choice, you can experiment with various types of bread, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even brioche, to create unique flavor variations. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the thickness and density of the bread.

Can I make Egg in a Hole healthier?

Yes, there are several ways to make Egg in a Hole a more nutritious option. You can use whole-grain or multigrain bread, substitute olive oil or avocado oil for the butter, and add extra vegetables like spinach or tomatoes. You can also top the cooked egg with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a slice of Canadian bacon for added protein.

What should I do if the egg whites don’t set properly?

If you find that the egg whites are taking longer to set, try reducing the heat slightly and covering the pan with a lid for a minute or two. This will help the whites cook through without overcooking the yolks. You can also try using a smaller pan or cooking the eggs one at a time to ensure even cooking.

Can I add any additional toppings or fillings to Egg in a Hole?

Absolutely! Egg in a Hole is a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of toppings and fillings. Some ideas include shredded cheese, diced ham or bacon, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Just be mindful of not overfilling the bread slices, as this can make them difficult to flip and cook evenly.

🎉 Final Thoughts

These Egg in a Hole represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a quick and easy breakfast or a fun and interactive meal, they’re sure to impress with their crispy bread, runny egg yolks, and satisfying flavors. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Egg in a Hole demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this classic breakfast staple with a delightful twist!