Description
Shirred Eggs are a simple and elegant baked egg dish where eggs are gently cooked in buttered ramekins with cream, parmesan cheese, and topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives. This delicious breakfast or brunch recipe uses a water bath to ensure perfectly tender eggs with a creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for buttering ramekins)
- 2–3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons heavy cream (or half & half)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 2 pieces crisp bacon, crumbled
- Fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and ramekins: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter the insides of three 4-ounce ramekins thoroughly with softened unsalted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor. Place these ramekins inside a larger baking dish.
- Add parmesan and eggs: Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese evenly among the three ramekins. Crack two eggs into each ramekin carefully to keep yolks intact.
- Add cream and seasoning: Spoon 2 tablespoons of heavy cream over the eggs in each ramekin. Season each with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Create a water bath and bake: Pour enough hot water into the baking dish to come up about two-thirds of the way up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath gently cooks the eggs to a silky texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the egg whites are opaque but yolks remain slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking as eggs continue to cook after removal from the oven.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, top each ramekin with crumbled crispy bacon and chopped fresh chives for added flavor and texture. Serve warm alongside toast or crostini for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute half & half for heavy cream for a lighter option.
- The water bath is crucial for gentle cooking and preventing overcooked eggs.
- Adjust baking time slightly if using larger or smaller ramekins.
- Serve immediately for the best creaminess, as the eggs can continue to cook in their own heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: shirred eggs, baked eggs, breakfast recipe, baked egg ramekins, creamy eggs, bacon eggs, brunch recipe
