Easy Cheesy Baked Eggs are a delicious and versatile breakfast option that hails from the heart of British cuisine. This dish, often enjoyed as part of a traditional English breakfast, is beloved for its rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast or a special brunch recipe, these cheesy baked eggs are sure to please. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making the perfect cheesy baked eggs, discuss various tips and variations, and provide nutritional information to help you enjoy this delightful dish.
Ingredients
To make Easy Cheesy Baked Eggs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish or individual ramekins with butter to prevent the eggs from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten. Add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the eggs and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese
Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on the bottom of the greased baking dish or ramekins. This will create a gooey base for the eggs.
Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture over the cheddar cheese layer. Make sure the eggs are evenly distributed in the dish.
Step 5: Add More Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture. This will create a crispy and flavorful cheese crust.
Step 6: Bake the Eggs
Place the baking dish or ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden brown. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size and depth of your dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the cheesy baked eggs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh chives, if desired. Serve the eggs warm, straight from the dish, with toast or fresh vegetables on the side.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are recommended, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Gouda, or feta for different flavors.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add herbs such as thyme, basil, or parsley to the egg mixture for added aroma and taste.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the eggs as they bake. Overbaking can cause them to become dry, so aim for a slightly jiggly center when you take them out of the oven.
Variations
- British Cheesy Baked Eggs: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce and a sprinkle of British cheddar for an authentic British twist.
- Cheesy Baked Eggs Without Cottage Cheese: This recipe does not include cottage cheese, but you can substitute it with ricotta for a creamier texture if desired.
- Cheese and Egg in the Oven Yorkshire: Incorporate Yorkshire pudding batter for a hearty and traditional Yorkshire twist.
- Egg and Cheese Casserole, No Meat: For a larger serving, double the ingredients and bake in a casserole dish. This makes a great meatless brunch option.
- Simple Baked Eggs Recipe: Keep it simple by using just eggs, cheese, salt, and pepper for a quick and easy version.
- Cheesy Baked Eggs for One: Halve the ingredients and bake in a single ramekin for a personalized breakfast treat.
- Baked Egg Recipes for Brunch: Serve alongside bacon, sausages, and fresh fruit for a complete brunch spread.
- Overnight Cheesy Egg Casserole: Prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- What Cheese is Best to Melt with Eggs?: Cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss are all excellent choices for melting with eggs due to their creamy texture and rich flavor.
- What’s the Difference Between Boiled and Baked Eggs?: Baked eggs have a creamier texture and are often mixed with cheese and other ingredients, while boiled eggs are cooked in their shells and have a firmer texture.
- What is an Egg Shirrer?: An egg shirrer is a dish in which eggs are baked with cream and other ingredients, similar to this recipe but typically served in individual ramekins.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the basic nutritional information for one serving of Easy Cheesy Baked Eggs (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
This dish is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious breakfast option.
Conclusion
Easy Cheesy Baked Eggs are a delightful and versatile breakfast dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch or need a quick weekday breakfast, these cheesy baked eggs are sure to become a favorite in your household.