Description
Easy Shirred Eggs are a simple yet elegant baked egg dish featuring fresh eggs gently cooked in butter or cream until the whites are set and yolks remain delightfully runny. This creamy, rich breakfast or brunch option is quick to prepare, customizable with herbs, cheese, and spices, and perfect for sharing with guests or enjoying a satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Eggs and Dairy
- Fresh eggs (1-2 per ramekin)
- Butter or cream (1 tablespoon per ramekin)
Seasonings
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins
- Grated cheese (such as Gruyère, feta, goat cheese) – optional
- Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill) – optional
Variations and Extras
- Chopped spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms (for vegetarian addition)
- Chili flakes or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
- Coconut milk or olive oil (for dairy-free substitutes)
- Cooked bacon, sausage, or smoked salmon (for added protein)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to provide steady, gentle heat ideal for baking Shirred Eggs without drying them.
- Prepare the Ramekins: Lightly butter each ramekin or small oven-safe dish to prevent sticking and add flavor, creating a lovely base for the eggs.
- Crack the Eggs: Carefully crack one or two fresh eggs into each ramekin, ensuring the yolks remain intact to maintain that creamy texture.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Spoon a tablespoon of cream or place a dab of butter over the eggs, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Add grated cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
- Bake Until Set: Place the ramekins in a shallow baking dish filled halfway with hot water to create a water bath. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain soft and runny.
Notes
- Use the freshest eggs possible to ensure the best texture and flavor.
- Maintain the water bath carefully; it gently cooks the eggs and prevents overcooking or drying out.
- Do not skip butter or cream, as the fat is key for a tender, creamy consistency.
- Watch baking times as ovens vary; avoid baking too long to keep yolks runny.
- Experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or spices to personalize the dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin (1-2 eggs)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 370mg
Keywords: shirred eggs, baked eggs, breakfast recipe, brunch recipe, easy eggs, creamy eggs, egg casserole, protein breakfast