Baked Eggs are a simple yet elegant dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This versatile recipe allows for various toppings and seasonings, making it easy to customize to your taste. Baked eggs are not only delicious but also visually appealing when served in individual ramekins or a baking dish.

Ingredients List

Basic Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., spinach, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions)
• 1/2 cup cooked protein (e.g., bacon, ham, sausage)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, feta, mozzarella)
• Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives, thyme) for garnish

Timing

Preparing Baked Eggs takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 25-30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Grease the Dish: Lightly grease individual ramekins or a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Whisk Eggs and Cream: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Add Fillings

1. Layer Ingredients: If using, place your chopped vegetables, cooked protein, and cheese at the bottom of the greased ramekins or baking dish.
2. Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the fillings, filling each ramekin about 3/4 full.

Step 5: Bake the Eggs

1. Bake: Place the ramekins or baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set but still slightly soft in the center. The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the size of the ramekins.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked eggs!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Baked Eggs (per serving, assuming 1 egg with cream and basic seasonings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	8g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	1g
Fiber	0g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetarian Option: Load up on vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus for a hearty vegetarian dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with various cheeses for different flavors, such as goat cheese or Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Eggs pair well with:

• Toast or crusty bread to soak up the delicious egg mixture.
• A side salad for a light and refreshing meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the eggs; they should be set but still slightly soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry eggs.
2. Not Greasing the Dish: Make sure to grease the ramekins or baking dish well to prevent sticking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Baked Eggs are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In just about 25-30 minutes, you can create Baked Eggs, a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these baked eggs are sure to impress!

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the fillings and egg mixture in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use egg substitutes?

Yes! You can use egg substitutes or egg whites for a lighter version of baked eggs.

What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients like avocado, smoked salmon, or various spices to create your perfect baked eggs.