Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a delightful and incredibly easy breakfast that consistently wins hearts: **Eggs in a Basket**. This charming dish, featuring a perfectly cooked egg nestled within a slice of golden-brown bread, is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience. Whether you call it Eggs in a Hole, Toad in a Hole, or simply a delicious start to your day, this recipe promises simplicity, speed, and satisfying flavor, making it the ideal choice for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or even a fun breakfast-for-dinner treat.
Discover the Charm of Eggs in a Basket
Eggs in a Basket holds a special place in the hearts of many, often evoking childhood memories and the comfort of home-cooked meals. It’s a breakfast superstar that manages to be both whimsical and wonderfully satisfying. What makes this dish truly exceptional is its straightforward nature; with just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform ordinary bread and eggs into something truly extraordinary.
This beloved breakfast has garnered a fascinating array of aliases over the years, a testament to its widespread appeal and regional interpretations. You might know it as Eggs in a Hole, Eggs in a Nest, Toad in a Hole, Eggs in a Frame, One-Eyed Jack, or even Gashouse Eggs. Our personal favorite nickname remains “Sunshine Eggs” because of how it brightens any morning!
The history of this simple yet iconic dish dates back much further than you might imagine. Its earliest known mention can be traced to the Boston Cooking School Cookbook in the 1890s, where culinary pioneer Fannie Farmer referred to it as “Egg with a Hat,” a playful nod to using the center cutout of the bread as a whimsical topper for the egg. Its enduring popularity is clear, even making appearances in classic films like Moon Over Miami, Moonstruck, and the iconic V for Vendetta. It’s truly a dish that transcends generations and cultures, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most timeless.
Despite its many quirky names, one thing remains consistent: the pure joy it brings. We’ll skip over some of the more unusual monikers that might not sound as appetizing for breakfast (no one wants “egg in a trashcan” for their morning meal, trust us!). Instead, we’ll focus on how to make this classic dish shine, ensuring it’s always a welcome sight on your breakfast table.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Eggs in a Basket
One of the many beauties of the Eggs in a Basket recipe is its reliance on readily available, simple ingredients. You likely have most, if not all, of these staples in your pantry right now! For precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, be sure to check the printable recipe card located at the end of this article.
- Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are ideal for this recipe. If you’re ever unsure about the freshness of your eggs, a quick float test can confirm their quality.
- Butter: We typically use unsalted butter to control the seasoning, but salted butter can add an extra layer of flavor if you prefer. Butter is crucial for achieving that irresistible golden-brown crust on your bread and imparting a rich flavor.
- Sliced Bread: The foundation of our basket! Almost any type of sliced bread will work. We particularly enjoy using sliced Hawaiian bread for a touch of sweetness or a hearty whole wheat bread for added texture and nutrition. White sandwich bread is also a classic choice, offering a soft texture and even browning.
- Cheese (Optional): While not strictly traditional, a slice of your favorite cheese, like Colby Jack, cheddar, or provolone, can be melted over the egg for an extra layer of indulgence. This is especially delicious when making mini grilled cheese sandwiches with the bread cutouts!
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the natural flavors of the egg and bread. Always season to taste.
Flavorful Toppings and Savory Pairings:
The customization possibilities are endless when it comes to Eggs in a Basket. Get creative with your toppings and side dishes to transform it into a truly personalized meal:
- Classic Toppings: A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, a dash of paprika, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, a drizzle of sriracha sauce or your favorite hot sauce is a fantastic addition.
- Condiment Favorites: Ketchup is a timeless companion for eggs and toast, offering a tangy contrast.
- Hearty Sides: Complete your breakfast spread with some crispy air fryer bacon or quick microwaved bacon. Golden air fryer hashbrowns also make a perfect complement, offering a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Additions: Sliced avocado or a simple fruit salad can add freshness and balance to your meal.
Essential Equipment for Your Eggs in a Basket Adventure
Gathering the right tools will make your Eggs in a Basket preparation even smoother and more enjoyable. You don’t need fancy gadgets; just a few kitchen essentials will do the trick.
- Cookie Cutter: This is where the fun begins! The shape of your cutout is entirely up to your imagination. For festive occasions, consider heart shapes for Valentine’s Day, Christmas trees for the holidays, or celebratory stars for the Fourth of July. For everyday enjoyment, a simple 2 to 2.5-inch circular cookie cutter works perfectly for a standard large egg. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, the rim of a drinking glass offers a convenient and effective alternative for a circular hole.
- Nonstick Skillet or Frying Pan (preferably with a lid), or a Griddle: A good quality nonstick surface is key to preventing the bread and egg from sticking, ensuring easy flipping and a perfectly cooked result. A lid helps the egg whites set more quickly and evenly, especially if you prefer a firm yolk. For making multiple eggs at once, a griddle is an excellent choice.
- Spatula: You’ll need a sturdy, flat spatula for carefully flipping your bread and eggs without breaking the delicate yolk.
- Knife: If you’re feeling adventurous and want to freehand a unique shape for your bread cutout, a sharp knife is essential. Just be sure to exercise caution when cutting.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Perfect Eggs in a Basket
Creating Eggs in a Basket is wonderfully simple, making it a fantastic recipe for cooks of all skill levels. While a comprehensive, printable recipe card with precise measurements and timings is available at the end of this post, here’s a simplified overview to get you started on this delicious journey.
Step 1: Prepare Your Bread. Begin by selecting your favorite sliced bread. Using a cookie cutter or the rim of a drinking glass, carefully cut a hole in the center of each slice. The key here is to leave a substantial border around the cutout so that the bread frame can securely hold the egg. Gently remove the center piece and set it aside; it will be used later!
Step 2: Butter Up. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice and both sides of the cutout piece. You can spread softened butter, use a butter spray (like “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” spray for convenience), or melt butter directly in the skillet before adding the bread. Be gentle when buttering to avoid tearing the bread, especially around the cutout. Even butter distribution ensures even browning and a delicious crispy texture.
Step 3: Toast the First Side. Heat your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the buttered bread slices (butter-side down) and their cutouts into the hot pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the bottom of the bread turns a beautiful golden brown and becomes delightfully crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Finish Cooking. Once the first side is toasted to your liking, carefully flip the bread slices and the cutouts. Immediately crack one egg into the center hole of each bread slice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat, which helps the egg whites set more quickly and cooks the yolk evenly. Cook for approximately 2 to 4 minutes, depending on your preferred yolk consistency. For a runny yolk, cook closer to 2 minutes; for a firmer yolk, extend to 4 minutes or slightly longer. Avoid moving the egg toast while it’s cooking to prevent the yolk from breaking.
Don’t Forget the Cutouts! While your eggs are cooking, the center pieces can be toasted alongside the bread frame. These versatile little pieces can be transformed in several delicious ways:
- Mini Grilled Cheese: For a savory treat, place a small slice of cheese between two cutouts and cook until golden and melted.
- Yolk Soakers: Simply toast them and use them to dip into and soak up any wonderfully runny yolks.
- Sweet Cinnamon Toast: For a delightful sweet bite, turn the toasted cutouts into mini cinnamon toast by spreading with butter and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar.
Once your eggs are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the skillet with a spatula and transfer them to a plate. Serve immediately and savor your fun, flavorful breakfast!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Eggs in a Basket
Planning ahead and knowing how to store leftovers can make your breakfast routine even smoother. Here are some practical tips for enjoying your Eggs in a Basket anytime.
Make Ahead: While freshly made Eggs in a Basket are undoubtedly the best, you can slightly prepare components. You could pre-cut your bread slices and store them in an airtight container for a day. We haven’t extensively tested pre-toasting the bread, but for optimal texture, we recommend toasting it fresh right before adding the egg.
Storage: If you find yourself with leftover cooked Eggs in a Basket, it’s important to store them properly to maintain freshness and safety. According to FDA guidelines, cooked egg dishes should be consumed within three to four days when refrigerated promptly. Always ensure leftovers are stored in clean, airtight containers to prevent spoilage and absorb odors from other foods.
Freezing/How to Freeze: While bread freezes exceptionally well, freezing cooked eggs requires a bit more care. If you plan to freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. The UK site, Freeze It, provides a helpful guide on freezing fried eggs, which can be adapted for Eggs in a Basket.
How to Reheat: For the best reheating results, especially for frozen portions, we recommend using a skillet. Reheating on the stovetop helps to crisp up the bread again, mimicking its freshly made texture, while allowing you to control the heat to prevent the egg from overcooking and becoming rubbery. You can also use a toaster oven for convenience, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
Creative Recipe Variations for Every Palate
The beauty of Eggs in a Basket lies in its adaptability. This simple recipe serves as a fantastic canvas for various substitutions and additions, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs or culinary preferences.
Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread. As long as your cookie cutter can safely create a hole, you can use brioche, challah, sourdough, or even bagels for a unique twist. If you’re not a fan of fried eggs, you can easily scramble an egg and spoon it into the toasted bread hole, though this will alter the traditional “look” of the dish.
Vegetarian Option: Good news! This recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, requiring no modifications unless you choose to add meat as a side.
Vegan Option: For those following a plant-based diet, a delicious vegan version is entirely possible. Cadry’s Kitchen offers a clever vegan eggs-in-a-basket recipe that utilizes tofu, an egg substitute, and the intriguing kala namak (Indian black salt), known for its distinct eggy flavor, creating a surprisingly authentic taste and texture.
Gluten-Free: Simply swap out regular bread for your favorite gluten-free sliced bread. Ensure any additional toppings or ingredients you use are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Smaller Serving Size: If you’re looking for miniature egg and bread creations, consider exploring recipes like our sausage breakfast biscuit cups or scotch eggs for bite-sized delights.
Make it Spicy: Elevate the flavor profile with a kick! Incorporate your favorite hot sauce, a spoonful of zesty salsa, or a blend of spicy seasonings directly onto the egg as it cooks or upon serving. Eggs pair wonderfully with a touch of heat!
Larger Group/More Servings: Preparing Eggs in a Basket for a crowd is easier than you think. Instead of using a skillet, arrange multiple bread slices on a baking sheet pan, add the eggs, and bake them in the oven. This method allows for hands-off cooking and ensures everyone gets a warm, delicious serving. You can find excellent guides like this one for baked eggs in a hole for a group.
Sugar-Free: The sugar content of this dish is primarily determined by the type of bread you choose and any additional ingredients. Opt for unsweetened bread and avoid sugary toppings to keep it sugar-free.
Pro Tips for the Best Eggs in a Basket
Achieving Eggs in a Basket perfection is simple with a few insider tricks. These tips will help ensure your breakfast is not only delicious but also beautifully presented.
- Patience is Key: Once you’ve cracked the egg into the bread, resist the urge to move the toast around until the egg is fully set. This prevents the yolk from breaking prematurely and keeps your egg neatly contained within its bread “basket.”
- Multi-functional Cutouts: Don’t let those bread centers go to waste! As mentioned, they can be transformed into delightful mini cinnamon toast for a sweet treat, or pressed into mini grilled cheese sandwiches by melting a small piece of cheese between two cutouts. You can cook these alongside your main eggs or right after.
- Soak Up the Yolk: If you prefer a runny yolk, the toasted bread centers are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that rich, golden goodness.
- Smart Buttering: For easy and even buttered bread, consider using a butter spray or melting butter directly in the bottom of your pan before adding the bread. Spreading softened butter directly onto the bread, especially around the cutout, can sometimes cause the delicate bread to rip, so proceed with caution if using this method.
- Heat Control: Keep your skillet heat at medium. Too high, and the bread will burn before the egg cooks; too low, and the bread won’t crisp up nicely.
- Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your egg with salt and pepper right after you crack it into the bread. This ensures maximum flavor.
When and What to Serve With Your Eggs in a Basket
Eggs in a Basket is an incredibly versatile dish that transcends traditional breakfast hours. It’s truly a perfect “anytime” meal, whether you’re whipping it up for a quick morning bite, a relaxed brunch, or even a fun and easy breakfast-for-dinner option. Kids especially adore this interactive and visually appealing meal!
To turn your Eggs in a Basket into a complete feast, consider pairing it with some of these delicious sides, main dishes, desserts, and drinks:
Complementary Sides: Enhance your meal with flavorful accompaniments. Consider a hearty Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, fluffy Easy Pancake Muffins, or creative Muffin Mix Pancakes. For savory additions, crispy Air Fryer Sausage Links, our simple 3 Ingredient Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, or convenient Air Fryer Frozen Hashbrowns are excellent choices. Don’t forget a nostalgic Air Fryer Toaster Strudel or some fresh avocado slices for a healthy touch.
Hearty Main Dishes (for a larger spread): If you’re hosting brunch or simply want more variety, these dishes pair wonderfully: a comforting Sausage Biscuit & Gravy Casserole, indulgent Eggnog French Toast, creamy Crock Pot Cheese Grits, or the savory Crock Pot Ham & Cheese Grits.
Sweet Endings (Desserts): Cap off your meal with a delightful dessert. Options include a moist Raspberry Coffee Cake, warm Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling Cobbler, a light and airy Lemon Dutch Baby, or a crowd-pleasing Crockpot Cinnamon Monkey Roll Bread.
Refreshing Drinks: Pair your Eggs in a Basket with a beverage that suits your mood. Enjoy a revitalizing Frosted Coffee, a soothing Iced Chai Latte, a seasonal Eggnog Coffee, or classic thirst-quenchers like Freckled Lemonade or Frosted Lemonade. For a cozy option, a Pumpkin Spice Latte is always a hit.
Explore More Delicious Recipe Collections
If you loved this easy and delicious Eggs in a Basket recipe, you’re in for a treat! We have an extensive collection of recipes designed to inspire your culinary adventures, from simple weeknight meals to impressive holiday spreads.
Breakfast for Dinner Ideas – Why limit the most important meal of the day to just mornings? Our collection of breakfast-for-dinner recipes proves that pancakes, eggs, and bacon can be a delightful and comforting meal anytime!
Hot Chocolate Recipes – Warm up with a fantastic array of hot chocolate creations, from classic comforting mugs to gourmet delights. Find your next favorite cozy drink here.
Side Dishes for Ham- Planning a holiday meal or have leftover ham? Discover the perfect accompaniments that will turn your ham into an unforgettable meal.
Bacon Recipes – Bacon isn’t just for breakfast anymore! Explore inventive ways to incorporate this beloved ingredient into lunch, dinner, and everything in between.
Cake Mix Recipes – Unlock the potential of a simple boxed cake mix! These recipes transform ordinary mixes into extraordinary cookies, brownies, cakes, and delightful desserts with minimal effort.
Comfort Foods- Dive into a treasure trove of heartwarming comfort food recipes that soothe the soul and satisfy every craving. Perfect for those days when you need a little extra coziness.
We are constantly adding new and exciting recipes, so be sure to check out our dedicated categories for copycat recipes, delectable dessert recipes, and our incredibly popular CrockPot Recipes for effortless cooking.
Stay connected and never miss a new recipe or tip! Follow Tammilee Tips on MSN, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all our latest updates and delicious inspiration.
Eggs in a Basket Recipe
Print
Rate
Ingredients
- 2 Large Eggs
- 2 Slices Sliced Bread
- Butter (or butter spray)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut a center hole from each slice of bread. Lightly spray both sides of the bread and the cut-out pieces with butter spray, or spread with softened butter.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the bread slices (butter-side down) and the cut-out pieces in the skillet. Toast one side of the bread until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
Flip the bread over. Crack one egg into the center hole of each bread slice. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the egg whites are set and the yolk reaches your desired doneness (approx. 2-4 minutes). Toast the center pieces of the bread alongside the eggs.
- Carefully remove from the skillet and serve immediately. Enjoy your fun and delicious breakfast!
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 45