Egg in a Hole is a classic breakfast dish that combines toast and an egg in a fun, delicious way. With a crispy, buttery slice of bread and a perfectly cooked egg in the center, this breakfast is both simple and satisfying. Known by various names like Toad in a Hole, Egg in a Basket, or Egg in a Nest, this dish is perfect for busy mornings or when you need a quick yet comforting meal. Whether you’re serving it for yourself, your family, or even guests, Egg in a Hole never fails to impress with its simplicity and charm. Let’s make this timeless favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 slice of bread (any kind you like)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

• Use a round cookie cutter, glass, or small bowl to cut a hole in the center of the bread slice. You can save the round cutout for toasting along with the bread if you like.
• The hole should be large enough to hold the egg but not too big that it overtakes the bread. Typically, a 2-inch cutter works well for this purpose.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt and spread it evenly in the pan.
• Make sure the skillet is hot but not smoking. The goal is to get a nice, even golden-brown toast without burning the butter.

Step 3: Toast the Bread

• Place the slice of bread (along with the cutout piece) in the skillet. Let it toast for about 1-2 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown.
• Toasting the bread before adding the egg helps to create a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft egg.

Step 4: Add the Egg

• Carefully crack the egg into the hole in the bread. It helps to crack the egg into a small bowl first, then gently pour it into the hole to avoid breaking the yolk.
• Season with a little salt and pepper. The seasoning adds flavor and enhances the taste of the egg.

Step 5: Cook the Egg

• Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the egg whites are mostly set. The yolk should still be runny at this point.
• Flip the bread carefully, being sure not to break the yolk. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, depending on how runny you like your yolk.
• For a firmer yolk, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes after flipping. This will give you a fully cooked yolk without any runniness.

Step 6: Serve

• Once the egg is cooked to your liking, remove the bread from the skillet. Serve the crispy cutout alongside the toast for dipping! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra yolk or just enjoying on its own.

Tips & Notes

• Egg Preference: If you prefer your egg yolk runny, cook for a shorter time after flipping. For a firmer yolk, cook for a bit longer.
• Cheese Addition: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the egg before flipping for a cheesy variation. The cheese will melt as the egg finishes cooking, adding a gooey, flavorful element.
• Butter Substitute: You can use olive oil instead of butter for a slightly different flavor. Olive oil gives the bread a subtle, fruity taste and is also a good option if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Seasoning Twist: Try adding a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for an extra burst of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley also adds a nice finishing touch.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Egg in a Hole: Add shredded cheese around the edges or inside the hole before cracking the egg. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack work well for this variation. The cheese will get melty and add a comforting touch to the dish.
• Bacon-Enhanced: Cook a few slices of bacon in the skillet before adding the bread and egg, then use the bacon fat instead of butter for extra flavor. You can even crumble the cooked bacon on top for a savory boost.
• Avocado Twist: After cooking, top the toast with avocado slices or mashed avocado for a modern twist. The creaminess of the avocado pairs wonderfully with the runny yolk.
• Spicy Egg in a Hole: Add a dash of hot sauce or sriracha on top of the egg after cooking for a spicy kick. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a more intense heat.
• Herbed Delight: Mix fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano with the butter before adding it to the pan. This adds an aromatic note that elevates the flavor profile of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad to make it a complete meal. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the egg and butter.
• Fruit: Add a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana for a balanced breakfast. The natural sweetness of the fruit pairs well with the savory flavors of the dish.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle a little hot sauce on top for some heat! This adds a great contrast to the creamy egg and buttery toast.
• Breakfast Potatoes: Serve alongside breakfast potatoes or hash browns for an extra hearty breakfast.
• Smoked Salmon: For a luxurious twist, add a slice of smoked salmon on top after cooking. The salty, smoky flavor of the salmon pairs beautifully with the egg and bread.

History of Egg in a Hole

The origins of Egg in a Hole are not entirely clear, but this dish has been beloved by many cultures under different names. In the United States, it’s commonly called “Egg in a Basket” or “Egg in a Nest.” In the UK, a similar dish called Toad in a Hole refers to sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter. The simplicity and versatility of this dish have made it a staple in many households for generations. Whether you’re making it for kids, friends, or just yourself, Egg in a Hole brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to the breakfast table.

Nutritional Information

Egg in a Hole is a well-balanced breakfast that provides a good source of protein from the egg and carbohydrates from the bread. Depending on the bread you choose, it can also provide fiber. Using whole grain bread adds extra nutrients, while the egg provides essential vitamins like B12 and D, as well as healthy fats. For those looking to make it a bit lighter, using whole wheat bread and reducing the amount of butter can make this dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Egg in a Hole is a delightful, quick breakfast that combines the goodness of toast and eggs in a fun and tasty way. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for mornings when you want something comforting without much hassle. Whether you keep it classic or add your favorite toppings, this dish is sure to be a hit for all ages. The crispy toast paired with the creamy, runny yolk creates a combination that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Plus, the versatility of Egg in a Hole means you can get creative with your own favorite flavors and additions.

Happy cooking, and enjoy this timeless breakfast classic that never goes out of style!