Creamy Baked Egg Delight

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe that creating comforting, flavorful dishes doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Our “Eggs Baked in Sour Cream” recipe is a perfect example of simple ingredients transformed into a luscious, satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. This dish offers a harmonious blend of creamy sour cream, rich Parmesan, and perfectly baked eggs, resulting in a velvety texture with a crispy topping. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends when you want something wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is guaranteed to delight your palate and bring warmth to your table.

Time

Preparation Time: 0 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
• Shallow casserole dish or ovenproof baking dish
• Mixing bowls (for assembling ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
• Spatula or spoon (for layering and mixing)
• Oven mitts (for safe handling of hot dish)
• Serving spoons or spatulas
• Optional: Aluminum foil (to cover during baking if needed)

Tags

Comfort Food, Quick & Easy, Breakfast, Brunch, Egg Recipes, Baked Dishes, Vegetarian, Family-Friendly

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for sharing with family or friends. Adjust quantities accordingly if serving larger or smaller groups.

Difficulty Level

Easy — Suitable for beginner cooks and those pressed for time, yet delivering impressive results with minimal effort.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Eggs, Dairy (sour cream, butter, Parmesan cheese)
• May contain traces of: Gluten (if breadcrumbs contain gluten)

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian — Contains no meat or seafood. Can be modified for gluten-free diets by substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Course

Main Course or Breakfast/Brunch

Cuisine

International / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

Preparation Phase

Start by ensuring your oven is set to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating is crucial for even baking and achieving the desired texture. Gather all ingredients and equipment listed above. Prepare your workspace for easy assembly and baking.

Layering the Base

In a shallow, oven-safe casserole or baking dish, begin by creating a flavorful foundation for your baked eggs. Spread approximately half of the breadcrumbs evenly across the bottom of the dish. This layer adds a slight crunch and absorbs some of the moisture from the sour cream, providing texture contrast.

Next, carefully pour 1 1/2 cups of sour cream over the breadcrumbs. Use a spatula or spoon to gently spread the sour cream evenly across the breadcrumbs, ensuring full coverage without disturbing the base layers.

Follow with 1/4 cup of butter, cut into small pieces or melted beforehand for easier spreading. Distribute the butter generously over the sour cream layer, as it will melt during baking and contribute to the richness of the dish.

Inserting the Eggs

Make small indentations or wells within the sour cream mixture using the back of a spoon or a small spoon itself. Carefully crack each of the six eggs and gently slide them into these wells. Be cautious to keep the yolks intact and avoid breaking them. The positioning of eggs is critical to ensure even cooking and presentation.

Adding the Top Layers

Once the eggs are nestled into the mixture, cover them with the remaining sour cream and breadcrumbs, creating a layered, cohesive surface. This ensures that every bite includes a mixture of creamy sour cream, crunchy breadcrumbs, and baked eggs.

Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese generously over the top. The cheese will melt during baking, forming a golden, crispy crust that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Baking the Dish

Place the assembled casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. The eggs should have a firm white and slightly runny yolk, depending on your preference, but they should not be overly runny or fully hard.

Keep an eye on the dish during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking. Using a toothpick or a small knife to check for doneness in the center can help you achieve the perfect consistency.

Serving and Garnishing

Remove the casserole carefully from the oven using oven mitts. Let it rest for a few minutes to settle, which makes serving easier and prevents hot, runny eggs from spilling out.

Serve hot, using a large spoon or spatula to portion out servings onto plates. The dish pairs beautifully with fresh herbs, crispy toast, or a light side salad. It is best enjoyed immediately while warm and creamy.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh eggs for optimal texture and flavor. Fresh eggs hold their shape better during baking.
• For a richer flavor, substitute unsalted butter with clarified butter or add a touch of garlic or herbs into the butter before spreading.
• If you prefer a firmer yolk, extend baking time by 2-3 minutes, but monitor closely to prevent over-drying.
• To make the dish more colorful and nutritious, consider adding chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or basil before baking.
• For a gluten-free variation, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit breadcrumbs altogether, adding a little extra cheese for texture.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking or add diced jalapeños into the sour cream layer.
• To make the dish more filling, serve with toasted bread, crispy bacon, or sautéed vegetables.
• Experiment with different cheeses—Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella—to vary flavors and textures.
• Use a silicone spatula to gently lift the eggs out of the dish without breaking yolks when serving.
• For a decorative presentation, garnish with chopped herbs or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.

Add-ons

• Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill
• Cooked and crumbled bacon or ham for added protein
• Thinly sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes on the side
• A dash of hot sauce or salsa for extra flavor

Side Dishes

• Crunchy toasted bread or baguette slices
• Fresh mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini
• Light fruit salad to balance the richness of the baked eggs

Improvements

• Incorporate sautéed spinach or kale into the sour cream layer for added greens and nutrients.
• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Layer sliced mushrooms or caramelized onions for enhanced umami taste.
• Use a non-stick baking dish for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving for added aroma.

Save and Store

This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To reheat, microwave on medium power until warmed through or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Note that reheating may alter the texture slightly, especially the crispy Parmesan topping. For best results, reheat gently to preserve the creamy interior and prevent overcooking the eggs.

FAQ

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While the assembled dish can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, it’s best to bake and serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor. If you do prepare it in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap and bake just before serving.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or omitting breadcrumbs altogether. Adding more cheese or chopped nuts can compensate for the missing crunch.

Is it suitable for a low-fat diet?

This recipe is quite rich in fats, primarily from butter, sour cream, and cheese. To reduce fat content, consider using low-fat sour cream, less butter, or a reduced amount of cheese. Incorporate more vegetables for added volume without extra calories.

What variations can I try?

Try adding chopped herbs, spices, or sautéed vegetables. Incorporate different cheese types for unique flavor profiles. For a spicy touch, add chopped chili peppers or hot sauce.

Conclusion

This “Eggs Baked in Sour Cream” recipe from Love With Recipes is a versatile, comforting dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its tender eggs, creamy sour cream, and crispy Parmesan topping make it a hit at any table. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches, this dish embodies the joy of straightforward, delicious home cooking. With endless possibilities for customization, it invites you to experiment and make it your own culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees satisfying results every time. Embrace the richness, savor each bite, and share the warmth of this delightful creation with those you cherish.

References

• Basic Egg Baking Techniques — The Food Network
• Cooking with Sour Cream — culinarytips.com