Baked (Shirred) Eggs

Baked eggs offer a delightful and custardy texture that cannot be replicated by any other cooking method. Not only are they a fantastic way to cook eggs for a crowd, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can incorporate various raw or cooked ingredients such as meat, seafood, vegetables, grains, or legumes into the dish, making it an excellent option for using up leftovers. The toppings for baked eggs are equally adaptable, ranging from bread crumbs and grated cheese to chopped fresh herbs or your favorite spice blend. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious and customizable baked egg dish.

MAKES: 1 or 2 servings

TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• Butter or oil, as needed
• Cream (optional)
• 2 eggs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease 2 custard cups or small ramekins with a bit of butter or oil. If desired, add a couple of teaspoons of cream to the bottom of each cup for added richness.
2. Crack one egg into each cup and place the cups on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the eggs in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the eggs are just set and the whites have solidified. Note that the eggs will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it’s best to slightly undercook them (approximately 12 minutes in a good oven on a middle rack).
4. Sprinkle the baked eggs with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and serve them immediately.

VARIATION – Baked Eggs with Tomato:

• Substitute olive oil for butter if preferred, and omit the cream.
• Before adding the eggs to each cup, place a tablespoon or two of chopped fresh tomato (or a slice of tomato) at the bottom of the cup.
• Top the tomatoes with minced fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro for added flavor.
• Add the eggs to the cups and bake as directed.

Remember, baked eggs are incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different combinations of ingredients and toppings. You can tailor them to your taste preferences or utilize ingredients you have on hand. Enjoy the custardy texture and the endless possibilities of this delightful baked egg recipe.

TIPS:

• Use custard cups, small ramekins, or oven-safe dishes that are just the right size for the number of eggs you are baking. This ensures that the eggs cook evenly and have enough space to set properly.
• Grease the baking dish with butter or oil to prevent the eggs from sticking. This also adds flavor and richness to the dish.
• Take advantage of the versatility of baked eggs by adding your favorite ingredients. Consider incorporating cooked meat, such as bacon or sausage, cooked vegetables, cheese, herbs, or spices. Get creative and use up any leftovers you have on hand.
• Enhance the flavor of baked eggs by adding herbs and spices. Try sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley, chives, basil, or cilantro on top of the eggs before baking. You can also experiment with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika to add a touch of heat or smokiness.