If you’re on the lookout for a simple yet incredibly flavorful breakfast or brunch idea, this Baked Eggs with Tomatoes and Feta Cheese Recipe is the perfect go-to. Imagine creamy, tangy feta melting against juicy, slightly roasted tomatoes, all cuddled up with perfectly baked eggs that are just the right balance of set whites and luscious yolks. This dish doesn’t just taste amazing – it looks vibrant and inviting, making it equally great for casual mornings or impressing guests. Plus, it’s versatile and straightforward enough to whip up in no time, which adds to its charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that each bring a unique touch to the dish. From the ripe, juicy tomatoes adding brightness, to the crumbly feta lending that salty creaminess, every element works together to create magic in each bite.
- Beefsteak tomato: Choose ripe and firm tomatoes for the most vibrant taste and texture.
- Feta Cheese: Opt for good quality feta to ensure a rich, tangy flavor that complements the eggs perfectly.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are key; they bake beautifully, with whites that set nicely and yolks that remain delightfully runny if timed right.
- Dried oregano: Just a sprinkle to add a subtle herbal note that elevates the whole dish.
- Olive Oil Spray: Helps prevent sticking and adds a light olive essence while keeping the bake light.
How to Make Baked Eggs with Tomatoes and Feta Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F. This ensures the perfect temperature to gently bake your eggs so they’re cooked through but not overdone. It’s a small but crucial step to setting your dish up for success.
Step 2: Ready Your Ramekins
Spray your ramekins with olive oil spray. This little touch prevents sticking and adds a hint of extra olive flavor, making clean-up easier and your dish look pristine when serving.
Step 3: Layer the Flavors
Add the chopped tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese evenly between the ramekins – a quarter cup of each per ramekin works perfectly. This layering creates a gorgeous base bursting with color and flavor that the eggs will nestle into.
Step 4: Herb It Up
Sprinkle dried oregano over the tomato and feta mixture. The oregano introduces earthiness and warmth, balancing the tangy and fresh elements beautifully.
Step 5: Crack the Eggs
Carefully crack two eggs into each ramekin atop the tomato-feta bed. This gentle nestling lets the eggs cook evenly and ensures every bite has that golden, silky yolk surrounded by tender whites.
Step 6: Season with Salt and Pepper
Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground pepper. It’s a simple but vital step that wakes up all the flavors and enhances the natural goodness of your ingredients.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the ramekins in the oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes. Keep an eye on the eggs so the whites set firmly but the yolks remain beautifully soft. If after 15 minutes the whites are still runny, you can leave them in a little longer—just watch carefully to avoid overcooking the yolks.
How to Serve Baked Eggs with Tomatoes and Feta Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten things up, try sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top right before serving. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a tiny dash of chili flakes can also add an exciting twist. These garnishes not only lift the flavor but make the dish visually stunning.
Side Dishes
This baked eggs creation pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted sourdough – perfect for scooping up all that melty feta and runny yolk. You could also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed asparagus for a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a brunch gathering, consider presenting the ramekins on individual small plates with microgreens or edible flowers for a charming touch. Alternatively, bake multiple ramekins in a larger baking dish for a cottage-style presentation that’s easy to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the texture of the eggs will change once refrigerated, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Freezing
Because eggs tend to lose their texture upon freezing, this dish is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing baked eggs with tomatoes and feta isn’t ideal, as the yolks can become rubbery and the feta’s texture might alter.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a low-temperature oven around 300°F or microwave on medium heat in short bursts to prevent overcooking the eggs. This gentle reheating helps keep the eggs tender without turning them tough.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional and offers a wonderful tang, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind they’ll alter the flavor profile slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for extra nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them beforehand to reduce moisture and maintain the dish’s consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick breakfast?
Definitely! It takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious breakfast that feels special without spending too much time in the kitchen.
How do I know when the eggs are perfectly baked?
The whites should be fully set and opaque, while the yolks remain slightly jiggly but not runny. Keep a close eye towards the end of baking to get your preferred consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
This specific recipe centers on eggs and feta cheese, so it isn’t vegan as is. However, you could experiment by substituting tofu for eggs and a plant-based feta alternative to create a similar baked dish.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the full scoop on this bright and delightful Baked Eggs with Tomatoes and Feta Cheese Recipe, I hope you feel inspired to make it your own. Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, this dish brings warmth, color, and flavor to your table in a uniquely satisfying way. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to start the day!
Print
Baked Eggs with Tomatoes and Feta Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Baked Eggs with Tomatoes and Feta Cheese is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish. Fresh beefsteak tomatoes and creamy feta cheese are combined with eggs and seasoned with oregano, then baked until the whites are set but yolks remain delightfully soft. This easy recipe requires minimal prep and cooks quickly in the oven, making it perfect for a wholesome start to your day or a light meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup beefsteak tomato, chopped
Dairy
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, good quality, crumbled
Eggs
- 4 eggs
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Others
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the eggs evenly.
- Prepare Ramekins: Spray two ramekins with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and add a slight richness.
- Add Tomatoes and Feta: Evenly divide and add 1/4 cup of the chopped tomatoes and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese to each ramekin, creating a flavorful base.
- Season: Sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano over each ramekin for aromatic flavor.
- Add Eggs: Crack 2 eggs into each ramekin carefully, keeping the yolks intact for perfect texture.
- Final Seasoning: Lightly sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on top of the eggs to enhance the flavors.
- Bake: Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes until the egg whites are set but yolks remain soft. If the whites are still runny, bake a few minutes longer, but watch carefully to prevent overcooking the yolks.
Notes
- You can substitute beefsteak tomatoes with cherry tomatoes halved for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant herbal taste, adjusting quantity accordingly.
- Serve with toasted bread or pita for a complete meal.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce the amount of feta cheese or use a lower-fat variety.
- Ensure even baking by placing ramekins on the middle oven rack.
