5 Delicious Egg in a Basket Recipe Variations

Egg in a basket, a simple yet timeless breakfast dish, involves cooking an egg inside a hole in a slice of bread. However, the basic concept offers a canvas for creativity, allowing for numerous delicious variations. Let's explore five egg in a basket recipe variations that can elevate your breakfast game, impress your family, and tantalize your taste buds with new flavors and textures.

Cheesy Egg in a Basket

Adding cheese is one of the simplest and most delightful ways to enhance an egg in a basket.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 slice of bread
  • 1 egg
  • 1 slice of your favorite cheese (cheddar, Swiss, etc.)
  • Butter or oil for greasing
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Steps:
  1. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut a hole in the center of the bread slice.
  2. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the bread slice and the hole on the skillet.
  3. Crack an egg into the hole. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Cook until the egg starts to set, then carefully flip to cook the other side.
  5. Just before the egg is fully cooked, place a slice of cheese over the bread. Cover the skillet for a minute to melt the cheese.

👨‍🍳 Note: For a richer flavor, try using aged cheddar or gruyere for their sharp, nutty notes.

Bacon and Avocado Egg in a Basket

This variation brings a whole new level of taste with the addition of savory bacon and creamy avocado.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 slice of bread
  • 1 egg
  • 1-2 strips of bacon, cooked until crispy
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced or mashed
  • Butter or oil
  • Salt and pepper
• Steps:
  1. Cut a hole in the bread slice.
  2. Heat a skillet with a bit of oil or melted butter. Lay the bread in the skillet and crack an egg into the hole.
  3. Cook as usual, but after flipping, arrange the bacon on top of the egg, allowing it to get slightly crispy.
  4. When serving, spread or place avocado over or around the bread for a rich, creamy contrast.

🍳 Note: You can also create a healthier version with turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian alternative, try using smoky tempeh slices.

Italian Pesto Egg in a Basket

This version introduces the vibrant flavors of Italy with basil pesto.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 slice of Italian bread (like ciabatta or a hearty white)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Olive oil for frying
• Steps:
  1. Cut out the center of the bread, making the hole larger if using ciabatta.
  2. Spread pesto on the bread before placing it in a skillet with a bit of olive oil.
  3. Crack the egg into the hole. Cook until the egg begins to set.
  4. Flip, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Cook until cheese melts slightly and the egg is to your desired doneness.

Spicy Salsa Egg in a Basket

For those who love a bit of heat in the morning, this spicy variation is perfect.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 slice of bread
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons of your favorite salsa
  • 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
  • Butter or oil
• Steps:
  1. Cut a hole in the bread.
  2. Heat skillet, add butter or oil, and place the bread in.
  3. Crack the egg into the hole, then spoon salsa over and around the egg. Cook until the egg sets.
  4. Flip, and if using, sprinkle cheese on top. Cook until cheese melts.

Sweet French Toast Egg in a Basket

Switch up the savory for something sweet with this French toast-inspired egg in a basket.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 slice of thick-cut brioche or challah bread
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • Butter or oil
• Steps:
  1. Whisk together milk, egg, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon to make your French toast batter.
  2. Cut a hole in the bread. Soak the bread in the batter.
  3. Heat the skillet with butter or oil. Place the soaked bread in the skillet, crack an egg into the hole, and cook as normal.
  4. Flip and cook until the egg is set to your preference. Drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar for serving.

Each of these variations on the classic egg in a basket offers unique flavors and textures that cater to different taste preferences. From the melt-in-your-mouth cheese to the spicy kick of salsa or the subtle sweetness of French toast, these recipes provide a delightful range of options for breakfast lovers. They not only enhance the traditional dish but also add an element of surprise and delight, ensuring that no two breakfasts need be the same.

Experimentation is key to finding your perfect recipe. Try combining elements from different variations or adding your personal touch like herbs, spices, or even a different type of bread. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to customize your morning meal to suit your mood, dietary needs, or the cravings of the moment.

Can I make egg in a basket ahead of time?

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While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the bread by cutting the holes ahead of time. Store in an airtight container or wrap to keep them fresh. You can also assemble most of the ingredients like salsa or cheese on the bread before cooking to streamline the process in the morning.

What are some gluten-free options for egg in a basket?

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Gluten-free bread works well for egg in a basket, or you can use slices of sweet potato, or a hash brown base for a gluten-free twist. Ensure the hash browns are cooked until they are crispy before cracking the egg into the middle.

Can I add vegetables to my egg in a basket?

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Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added before or after the egg, making it more nutritious. Just make sure the vegetables are cooked down so they don’t interfere with the cooking of the egg.

How can I ensure the egg in the center is perfectly cooked?

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Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet. For a runny yolk, cook on medium heat until the white sets, then cover the skillet with a lid or use a steamer basket to gently steam the top of the egg for a minute. Flip if needed for even cooking. For a fully cooked egg, simply cook longer on each side.