Egg in a Hole (Quick 5-Minute Breakfast)
Egg in a hole is a simple, nostalgic breakfast where an egg is fried right in the middle of a slice of buttered bread. You cut a hole in the toast, crack an egg into it, and cook until the bread is golden and the egg is set. It is ready in about 5 minutes and gives you toast and egg in one pan, with the egg providing a good dose of protein.
This is the breakfast I make when I want something warm and comforting fast. The bread soaks up the butter and crisps up beautifully, and the cut-out circle becomes a little toasted dipper for the runny yolk. It has dozens of names, but the idea is always the same and always delicious.
This Recipe Works If You Need
- A warm breakfast in about 5 minutes
- Toast and egg cooked in one pan
- A fun breakfast kids love to make
- A simple way to use a few pantry staples
Why You’ll Love Egg in a Hole
- Fast. Ready in about 5 minutes.
- One pan. Toast and egg cook together.
- Crispy and cozy. Buttery toast around a soft egg.
- Endlessly adaptable. Add cheese, herbs, or hot sauce.
Ingredient Notes
Bread should be sturdy enough to hold the egg; sourdough or a thick slice works best. Use gluten-free bread if needed.
Egg is the star. A fresh egg holds its shape best in the hole.
Butter or oil crisps the bread. Add salt, pepper, and any toppings you like.
Tips and Variations
- Toast the cut-out too. Fry the circle of bread to dip into the yolk.
- Cover for a set top. A lid helps the egg white cook through without flipping.
- Add cheese. A little grated cheese melts beautifully around the egg.
- Top it. Avocado, herbs, chili flakes, or hot sauce all work.
For more quick breakfasts, try our avocado toast recipes or a breakfast quiche, and browse our sweet breakfast ideas.
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Ingredients
- 2 slices bread large slices, (sourdough or thick-cut)
- 2 eggs
- olive oil just a little bit
- 2 Tbsps parsley chopped
- salt and ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut a hole in the center of the bread slice using a round cutter or a glass. Keep the cut-out circle.
- Add olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the bread and the cut-out circle.
- Crack the egg into the hole and season with salt and pepper
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the bottom is golden, then cover with a lid for 1 minute, or flip, to set the egg to your liking.
- Serve hot, using the toasted circle to dip into the yolk.
- Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Egg in a hole is a breakfast made by cutting a hole in a slice of bread, cracking an egg into the hole, and frying it in butter until the bread is golden and the egg is set. It goes by many names, including toad in the hole and egg in a basket.
A sturdy bread like sourdough or a thick slice of country loaf holds the egg best and crisps up nicely. Thin or very soft bread can tear, so choose something with a bit of structure.
Cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two. The trapped steam sets the top of the egg white while the bottom crisps, so you get a fully cooked white and a runny or set yolk as you like.
It can be. Use a sturdy gluten-free bread, and the rest of the dish is naturally gluten-free. The egg, butter, and seasonings contain no gluten.
Yes, in spirit. Skip the egg and fill the hole with a savory tofu scramble or a mashed avocado, cooking the bread in vegan butter or oil until golden. It is different but delicious.
It is a meal on its own, but pairs well with grilled tomatoes, sautéed greens, avocado, or a simple side salad. A cup of coffee or tea completes the breakfast.
