As the sun begins to filter through the kitchen window, I’m met with the cozy aroma of toasty brioche and sizzling bacon—perfect indicators that breakfast is about to take a delightful turn. This Cheesy Bacon Egg in a Hole Bake is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that will bring your family together, turning any morning into a special occasion. Whipped up in one go, this gem of a recipe is fantastic for meal prep and makes serving brunch a breeze. Just imagine fluffy rolls cradling perfectly baked eggs, with gooey cheese and savory bacon creating a flavor sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, you can easily customize it to accommodate everyone’s tastes, even those seeking a vegetarian delight. So, are you ready to make mornings a little more exciting? Let’s dive into how to create this scrumptious centerpiece for your breakfast table!
Why is Egg in a Hole Bake a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: This recipe simplifies your morning routine with minimal fuss and mess, perfect for busy families or anyone seeking quick meal solutions.
Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of fluffy brioche, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon creates a heartwarming dish that evokes nostalgia while satisfying your cravings.
Customizable Options: Cater to everyone’s tastes! Feel free to swap out bacon for your favorite sausage or add fresh veggies like spinach for a nutritious twist.
Batch-Friendly: Ideal for meal prep, this dish can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, allowing you to enjoy a delightful breakfast with zero hassle during busy mornings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family gathering or brunch with friends, this Egg in a Hole Bake impresses with its inviting presentation and delicious aroma, making it the star of your breakfast spread! For more wholesome breakfast ideas, check out my Omelet Egg Bake or Low Carb Bake.
Egg in a Hole Bake Ingredients
For the Base
- Bakerly Brioche Dinner Rolls – The perfect fluffy base for this dish; slider buns can be a great alternative.
- Butter – Keeps the rolls moist and adds richness; use 4 tbsp, melted.
For the Filling
- Eggs – Essential for structure and protein; 12 eggs needed to create that perfect breakfast experience.
- Bacon – Adds a salty, savory touch; use 6 slices, cut in half, or substitute with sausage or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides that creamy richness; use ¾ cup shredded, but feel free to try any cheese you adore.
For Seasoning
- Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; use ¼ tsp to elevate the taste.
- Onion Powder – Complements the garlic perfectly; also use ¼ tsp for a savory kick.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your preference for a flavorful finish.
For the Topping
- Green Onions – Adds a fresh, crunchy element; use ¼ cup, chopped, to brighten up the whole dish.
This Egg in a Hole Bake is not only delicious but easily customizable, making it a fantastic option for any breakfast gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Egg in a Hole Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your Egg in a Hole Bake will cook evenly, resulting in fluffy rolls and perfectly baked eggs. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and greasing supplies to streamline the process.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Take 6 slices of bacon and cut them in half. Heat a skillet over medium heat and fry the bacon pieces for about 5 minutes, or until they are slightly curled and starting to crisp. Once cooked, set the bacon aside on a paper towel to absorb excess grease, allowing the savory flavor to develop.
Step 3: Grease the Baking Dish
Next, grab a 9×13 glass dish and generously grease it with butter to prevent the brioche rolls from sticking. Arrange the 12 Bakerly brioche dinner rolls in the prepared dish, ensuring they are snugly placed together, which helps them maintain their shape during baking.
Step 4: Create the Wells in the Rolls
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a circle in the top of each brioche roll, about 2 inches in diameter. Gently scoop out some of the insides, creating a small well for the filling. You want enough space to hold the egg, cheese, and bacon while keeping the rolls intact.
Step 5: Brush with Butter
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and then brush the inside of each hollowed-out roll. This step enriches the flavor and helps keep the rolls moist as they bake, ensuring you have that deliciously golden texture in your finished Egg in a Hole Bake.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon
In each roll, add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese along with half a slice of the cooked bacon. Press down lightly to pack the ingredients into the roll, ensuring they fit snugly. This combination creates a wonderful base of flavor for your breakfast treat.
Step 7: Crack the Eggs
Carefully crack one egg into each of the prepared rolls, allowing for some overflow of the egg whites if necessary. It’s perfectly fine as this adds to the deliciously rustic charm of the Egg in a Hole Bake and ensures the yolks stay intact for that perfect runny center.
Step 8: Season the Eggs
Sprinkle the eggs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. This seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile and complements the cheesiness and bacon beautifully. You want the eggs to be seasoned well for a delightful breakfast experience.
Step 9: Bake the Dish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know the Egg in a Hole Bake is done when the egg whites are set, yet the yolks remain slightly runny and deliciously creamy. Keep a close watch towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle ¼ cup of chopped green onions on top for a fresh, crunchy finish. This adds a lovely contrast of flavor and color to your Egg in a Hole Bake. Serve hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Expert Tips for Egg in a Hole Bake
Don’t Overcook: The eggs will continue to cook after you take them out. Aim for slightly runny yolks for the best experience!
Check Cheese Melting: Make sure your cheese is sufficiently melted before removing the bake; a gooey center is the goal here!
Customize Wisely: If going vegetarian, consider adding mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor — just remember not to overcrowd the rolls!
Even Cooking: Ensure that the rolls are snug in the dish to facilitate even baking, enhancing the overall texture of your Egg in a Hole Bake.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality cheese yield the best results, creating a delightful breakfast dish your family will love!
Egg in a Hole Bake Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Egg in a Hole Bake and make it your own!
-
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon and add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for a vibrant, healthy alternative. Feel free to mix in mushrooms for extra earthiness!
-
Cheese Swap: Use Swiss or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a new flavor profile. Each cheese brings a unique richness, enhancing the overall experience.
-
Sausage Substitute: Swap the bacon for fully cooked sausage patties or crumbles for a different savory punch. It’s a fantastic way to indulge if you prefer a heartier flavor.
-
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme inside the rolls for a burst of flavor. This simple touch elevates the dish and brings freshness to each bite.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the eggs for heat-loving breakfast enthusiasts who crave that extra zing!
-
Whole Grain Option: Use whole wheat or whole grain rolls instead of brioche for a healthier twist. This adds fiber, making your breakfast a bit more nutritious while still delicious.
-
Sweet Spin: Try a sweet version by replacing bacon with diced strawberries or blueberries and using cream cheese for filling. It’s a fun breakfast twist that doubles as dessert!
-
Breakfast Casserole: Double the recipe and bake it as a casserole instead! Just pour the egg mixture over the filled rolls, and bake until everything is set.
With options galore, this Egg in a Hole Bake can become a versatile centerpiece for your breakfast table! Try out these variations to find your family’s favorites. For another fantastic breakfast option, don’t forget to check out my Crispy Egg Salad or Bake Cranberry Pecan. Enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Egg in a Hole Bake
Fridge: Store leftover Egg in a Hole Bake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the bake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place thawed portions in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, try to keep the Egg in a Hole Bake out for no more than 2 hours to ensure freshness and safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Egg in a Hole Bake are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brioche rolls and fill them with cheese and bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the rolls in your baking dish and cover them tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to cook, crack the eggs into each roll and season, then bake as instructed. To maintain quality, ensure the rolls are well covered to prevent drying out; they’ll be just as delicious the next day! With this prep method, enjoy stress-free mornings and delightful, homemade breakfasts with minimal hassle.
What to Serve with Cheesy Bacon Egg in a Hole Bake
Elevate your breakfast or brunch experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance flavors and satisfaction.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and melons adds a refreshing sweetness to balance the savory richness of the bake. This contrast awakens the palate and brightens your meal.
-
Crispy Hash Browns: The golden, crispy texture of hash browns offers a satisfying crunch alongside the fluffy bake, making for a comforting and hearty breakfast combination.
-
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp bite that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the Egg in a Hole Bake, balancing the heaviness perfectly.
-
Savory Scones: Flaky, savory scones infused with herbs or cheese complement the cheesy, salty elements of the bake, inviting warmth and comfort to the breakfast table.
-
Creamy Yogurt Parfaits: Layered with granola and fresh fruit, this dessert adds a cooling contrast to the hot, savory bake while providing a delightful crunch.
-
Freshly Squeezed Juice: A glass of bright orange or zesty grapefruit juice awakens the taste buds and complements the rich breakfast dish, rounding out your morning with a refreshing sip.
These delectable sides will help transform your Cheesy Bacon Egg in a Hole Bake into a charming, memorable meal that welcomes the day with flavor and joy!
Egg in a Hole Bake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right brioche rolls for the Egg in a Hole Bake?
For the best results, choose fresh Bakerly brioche dinner rolls that are soft and fluffy with a golden crust. If they’re too stale, they won’t hold up as well, and the texture will suffer. You can also substitute with slider buns, but keep an eye on the size, as they might need adjustments in baking time.
How should I store leftover Egg in a Hole Bake?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat your portions until they are warmed through; this helps maintain the soft texture of the rolls and the creaminess of the eggs.
Can I freeze Egg in a Hole Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze, tightly wrap portions of the Egg in a Hole Bake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This allows for storage of up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake it at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What if my eggs overflow during baking?
Don’t worry—slightly overflowing egg whites are completely normal and add to the rustic charm of the dish! Just ensure that your baking dish has enough depth to catch any spills. If you’d like to avoid this, you could use slightly smaller eggs or make the wells in the bread a bit deeper.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of the Egg in a Hole Bake. Just omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a nutritious boost. Feel free to increase the amount of cheese as well for extra creaminess!
Can I use different cheeses in this bake?
Very much so! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese to suit your palate. Swiss, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick can all work beautifully, just be sure they’re shredded to melt evenly inside the rolls.
Egg in a Hole Bake: Ultimate Cozy Breakfast Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut 6 slices of bacon in half and fry them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, then set aside on a paper towel.
- Grease a 9x13 glass dish with butter and arrange the 12 brioche dinner rolls snugly in the dish.
- Cut a 2-inch circle in the top of each brioche roll and scoop out some insides to create a small well.
- Brush the inside of each roll with melted butter.
- In each roll, add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese and half a slice of cooked bacon.
- Crack one egg into each prepared roll.
- Season the eggs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until egg whites are set and yolks are slightly runny.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Leave a Reply