When hunger strikes suddenly, this classic egg in a basket recipe is the perfect solution. It transforms three basic ingredients—bread, eggs, and a little fat—into a crispy, savory, and protein-packed snack in under 5 minutes. It’s the ultimate quick bread snack that requires minimal skill, minimizes waste by using any bread you have, and delivers maximum comfort.
- Ingredients & Tools:
- 1 large slice of bread (white, wheat, or sourdough all work)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional Add-ons: A sprinkle of grated cheese, a pinch of red chili flakes, or a few fresh herbs.
- Tools: A small glass or round cookie cutter (about 2.5-3 inches in diameter), a non-stick skillet.
Prepare the Bread:
Take your slice of bread and use the glass or cookie cutter to press down and cut out a round hole from the center. Save this bread round—it’s your bonus “toast soldier” for dipping.
Cook the Base:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add half the butter or oil. Once melted, place the bread slice (with the hole) and the small bread round into the skillet. Let them toast for about 1-2 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
Add the Egg:
Flip the bread slice over. Crack the egg directly into the hole in the center of the bread. Season the egg with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using cheese, sprinkle a little over the egg or bread now.
Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the egg white is mostly set but the yolk is still runny. For a fully set yolk, you can carefully flip the entire thing for another 30 seconds, or cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat.
