Shirred Eggs Recipe
Introduction
Shirred eggs are a simple yet elegant baked egg dish, perfect for a cozy breakfast or light brunch. With creamy yolks and a touch of Parmesan, this dish offers a deliciously comforting start to your day.
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Grease a 6-ounce ramekin with butter, coating the bottom and sides thoroughly.
- Step 3: Pour the heavy cream into the ramekin, then gently crack the eggs on top without breaking the yolks.
- Step 4: Season the eggs with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sprinkle with minced chives and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Step 5: Place the ramekin on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until the egg whites are set and the yolks remain runny, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the eggs rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a small pat of butter on top of the eggs before baking.
- Substitute Parmesan with Gruyère or cheddar for a different cheese variety.
- Add diced cooked bacon or smoked salmon for a heartier meal.
- If you prefer firmer yolks, extend the baking time by a few minutes.
Storage
Shirred eggs are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid overcooking the yolks.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cream or milk?
Heavy cream provides the best richness and texture, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative, though the dish will be less creamy.
What size ramekin should I use?
A 6-ounce ramekin is ideal for this recipe to ensure the eggs bake evenly without spreading too thin or too thick.
PrintShirred Eggs Recipe
Shirred Eggs are a simple and elegant baked egg dish where eggs are gently cooked in a buttered ramekin with cream, seasoned with fresh chives and Parmesan cheese. This recipe yields creamy, tender eggs with a slightly runny yolk that makes a perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 1/4 teaspoon unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the eggs.
- Prepare Ramekin: Grease a 6-ounce ramekin thoroughly with the unsalted butter, covering both the bottom and sides to prevent sticking.
- Add Cream and Eggs: Pour the 2 teaspoons of heavy cream into the buttered ramekin, then gently crack the 2 large eggs on top, taking care not to break the yolks for a perfect runny texture.
- Season and Garnish: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the eggs to taste, then add the minced fresh chives and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for added flavor.
- Bake Eggs: Place the ramekin onto a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes until the egg whites are set but yolks remain soft and slightly runny.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ramekin from the oven and allow the eggs to rest for a couple of minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the temperature settle.
Notes
- For firmer yolks, bake a few minutes longer according to your preference.
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with Gruyère or cheddar for different flavors.
- To add variety, try mixing in herbs like tarragon or parsley instead of chives.
- Serve with toasted bread or fresh salad for a complete breakfast.
Keywords: Shirred Eggs, baked eggs, breakfast recipe, easy brunch, creamy eggs, Parmesan eggs
