Baked eggs

Baked eggs with ham and cheese - a savory and comforting breakfast

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I propose a simple and delicious recipe for a hearty breakfast or a quick dinner: baked eggs with ham and cheese. This recipe is perfect when you want something easy to prepare but full of flavor. Plus, it cooks in record time and can be adapted to your tastes.

A brief history

Baked eggs are a classic dish appreciated in many cultures. From brunches to informal dinners, this dish has evolved over time. Its origins lie in the culinary traditions of homemakers who sought to use available ingredients efficiently and deliciously. Today, baked eggs are often accompanied by various ingredients, and the combination of cheese and ham is certainly one of the most popular.

Your ingredients

- 8 fresh eggs
- 4 slices of ham or salami with ham
- 150 g grated cheese (choose cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda)
- 100 ml cooking cream
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step for a perfect breakfast

1. Preparing the dish
Start by preheating the oven to 180-190°C. Choose a heat-resistant dish or a glass baking dish that is large enough to hold all your eggs. Lightly grease the bottom and sides of the dish with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Arranging the ham
Place the slices of ham or salami on the bottom of the dish, one slice for each egg. This will not only add delicious flavor but will also act as a support for the eggs, providing a solid base.

3. Adding the cheese
Sprinkle the grated cheese around the slices of ham, leaving a small space in the center for each egg. Here, the cheese will melt and turn into a creamy, flavorful layer. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese to achieve a mix of flavors. A combination of blue cheese, such as Roquefort, can add extra flavor.

4. Adding the eggs
Crack each egg on top of the slices of ham, being careful not to break the yolks. This step is essential for achieving a beautiful presentation of the dish. If you prefer your eggs more well-done, you can lightly beat them with a fork before adding them to the dish.

5. Seasoning
Pour the cooking cream over the eggs and add salt and pepper to taste. The cream will provide exceptional creaminess, while the spices will enhance the flavors.

6. Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. Check after 20 minutes: the eggs should be cooked but with the yolks still soft if you prefer them that way. If you like your yolks firmer, leave them in for a few more minutes.

7. Serving
Once they are golden brown, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the eggs warm, straight from the dish, alongside a fresh green salad or toasted bread. A slice of garlic bread would perfectly complement this meal.

Practical tips

- Ingredients: Choose fresh ingredients. Eggs from local farms taste better and are more nutritious. You can also use more flavorful cheeses to enhance the dish's taste.
- Variations: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers or onions for a more colorful and healthy dish. Additionally, replace the ham with smoked salmon for a gourmet version.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a fragrant coffee.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use quail eggs?
Yes, quail eggs are a delicious alternative, but you will need to use more to achieve the same quantity.

2. How can I make the recipe easier?
You can use pre-grated cheese and pre-sliced ham to reduce preparation time.

3. Can baked eggs be frozen?
It is recommended not to freeze the finished dish, but you can prepare the ingredients and keep them in the refrigerator for later use.

4. What other recipes can it be combined with?
These baked eggs pair perfectly with a tomato and cucumber salad or a serving of fried potatoes.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs, while the ham and cheese add a considerable amount of calcium. Additionally, the cooking cream provides healthy fats that help maintain energy throughout the day. Each serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the exact quantities used.

This baked eggs with ham and cheese recipe is not just a simple dish, but also an excellent way to start your day with energy. Try it and you will discover how easy it is to transform simple ingredients into a savory and comforting breakfast!