📝 About This Recipe
A nostalgic American classic, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into a whimsical, protein-packed meal that bridges the gap between breakfast and dinner. Featuring thick-cut brioche toasted to a buttery crisp with a perfectly jammy egg nestled in the center, it’s a textural masterpiece that kids and adults alike will adore. It’s the ultimate 'Breakfast for Dinner' comfort food—playful, satisfying, and ready in minutes.
🥗 Ingredients
The Foundation
- 2 slices Brioche or thick-cut white bread (cut 1-inch thick for best results)
- 2 Large eggs (at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter (softened)
Seasoning and Flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic powder (for a savory dinner twist)
- 1/4 cup Sharp cheddar cheese (finely shredded)
The 'Lunch-for-Dinner' Sides
- 4 pieces Bacon strips (cooked until crispy)
- 1/2 cup Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh chives (finely minced for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon Maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Place your thick-cut bread slices on a clean cutting board. Use a 2.5-inch round biscuit cutter or the rim of a small drinking glass to press a hole into the center of each slice.
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2
Keep the 'hats' (the bread circles you just cut out). These are the best part for dipping later!
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3
Generously spread softened butter on both sides of the bread slices and both sides of the bread circles.
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4
In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create a uniform seasoning blend.
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5
Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron griddle over medium-low heat. Add a small half-tablespoon of butter to the pan and let it melt until foamy.
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6
Place the bread slices and the bread circles into the skillet. Toast for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is a beautiful golden brown.
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7
Flip the bread slices and the circles over. Immediately drop a tiny sliver of butter into the center of each hole.
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8
Crack one egg directly into the center of each hole. If a little white spills over the top of the bread, don't worry—it adds character!
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9
Sprinkle your seasoning blend over the egg yolks and the toasted bread circles.
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10
Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes. This traps heat to cook the top of the egg white while keeping the yolk perfectly runny.
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11
Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese onto the bread around the egg, allowing it to melt and create a crispy 'cheese skirt'.
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12
Once the whites are set but the yolks still jiggle when the pan is gently shaken, use a wide spatula to carefully transfer the 'Egg-in-a-Hole' to plates.
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13
Garnish with fresh chives and serve alongside the crispy bacon and cherry tomatoes for a complete meal.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use room temperature eggs to ensure the whites cook through at the same rate the bread toasts. For a cleaner look, crack the egg into a small ramekin first to ensure no shell fragments enter the hole. If you prefer a 'hard' egg, flip the entire slice once the egg is set and cook for an additional minute. Adjust heat to medium-low; too high heat will burn the butter and bread before the egg white is fully opaque. Experiment with shapes using cookie cutters—hearts or stars make this extra fun for kids!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crispy hash browns or tater tots for extra crunch. Pair with a small glass of cold orange juice or a warm mug of cocoa for a cozy vibe. Add a small side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the butter and egg. Drizzle a tiny bit of maple syrup over the bacon and bread for that classic sweet-and-savory breakfast profile. Offer a side of ketchup or hot sauce for dipping the toasted bread 'hats'.