These Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To are a delightful way to start your day. They offer a perfect blend of warm, crispy bread topped with creamy cheese and a perfectly cooked egg. Whether you’re in a rush on a busy weekday or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, this recipe is adaptable for any occasion. Its standout feature is the quick preparation time, making it ideal for anyone craving a simple yet satisfying breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for mornings when you’re short on time.
- Customizable Flavors: You can easily switch up the cheese and herbs to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfectly Cheesy: With melted cheese on top, each bite is rich and satisfying, ensuring you won’t leave the table hungry.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy the flexibility of preparing these toasts in either an oven or an air fryer based on your kitchen setup.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make extra toasts for easy breakfasts throughout the week; they reheat wonderfully!
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started, make sure you have the right tools ready to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Toaster or Broiler
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet or Air Fryer Basket
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Toaster or Broiler: Essential for lightly toasting the bread, creating that crispy base everyone loves.
- Mixing Bowl: Necessary for combining the egg and cheese mixture evenly without spilling.
- Baking Sheet or Air Fryer Basket: Helps in cooking the toasts evenly, whether you choose the oven or air fryer method.
Ingredients
For the Toasts
- 2 slices of bread (white, whole grain, sourdough)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, gruyere, or your favorite)
- 1 tsp finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of cayenne (optional)
How to Make Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Device
Preheat your oven to 400°F or set your air fryer to 370°F. This ensures that your Egg and Cheese Toasts cook evenly.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Lightly toast the bread using a toaster. Alternatively, broil each slice for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl:
1. Lightly beat the egg until mixed well.
2. Add in grated cheese, finely chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Toasts
Spread the egg and cheese mixture evenly over each slice of toasted bread. Ensure you reach all edges for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Bake in Oven
If using an oven:
1. Place the prepared toast on a baking sheet.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
Step 6: Cook in Air Fryer
If using an air fryer:
1. Place the toast directly into the basket.
2. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until bubbly and set. If desired, use foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Now you have delicious Egg and Cheese Toasts ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
Egg and Cheese Toasts are a versatile breakfast option that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer them simple or dressed up, these toasts can satisfy any craving.
Add Fresh Greens
- Spinach or arugula on top adds a fresh element and balances the richness of the cheese.
Pair with Avocado
- Sliced or smashed avocado brings creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing the overall flavor.
Top with Salsa
- A spoonful of salsa can add a zesty kick, making your Egg and Cheese Toasts even more exciting.
Serve with Hot Sauce
- Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor and heat.
Accompany with Fruit
- Fresh fruit slices or a small fruit salad provide a refreshing contrast to the savory toast.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- A warm beverage like coffee or tea complements your meal beautifully, creating a perfect breakfast experience.
How to Perfect Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
Getting your Egg and Cheese Toasts just right is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your breakfast game:
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality cheese will make a noticeable difference in taste.
Experiment with bread: Try different types of bread like sourdough or whole grain for varied textures and flavors.
Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add depth. They enhance the overall aroma and taste.
Adjust cooking times: Depending on your oven or air fryer, cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on them for perfect results.
Best Side Dishes for Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
To make your breakfast complete, consider serving side dishes that complement your Egg and Cheese Toasts nicely. Here are some great options:
Crispy Bacon: Adds a salty crunch that pairs well with cheesy goodness.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and sweetness to balance savory flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy texture that’s delightful alongside toast.
Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide satisfying crunch and heartiness to the meal.
Smoothie: A fruity smoothie can refresh your palate while adding vitamins to your breakfast.
Sautéed Veggies: Lightly sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms create a colorful side packed with nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Egg and Cheese Toasts can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few tips to ensure perfect toasts every time.
- Using stale bread: Fresh bread makes a huge difference in taste and texture. Always choose fresh slices for the best results.
- Overcooking the egg: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked eggs can become rubbery, so aim for just set and fluffy.
- Not seasoning enough: A pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way. Don’t skip on seasoning to enhance the flavors of your dish.
- Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs add depth. Always incorporate them into your egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Neglecting the edges: Spreading the egg mixture all the way to the edges prevents dry toast. Make sure to cover every corner.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.
Freezing Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
- Wrap each toast individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.
Reheating Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking often not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Egg and Cheese Toasts that might help you enjoy this recipe even more.
What bread works best for Egg and Cheese Toasts?
You can use any bread you like! Sourdough, whole grain, or even white bread are great options based on your preference.
Can I customize my Egg and Cheese Toasts?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, or switch up the cheese variety for different flavors.
How can I make my Egg and Cheese Toasts healthier?
Consider using whole grain bread and reducing cheese quantity. You can also add more herbs or veggies for added nutrition.
What variations exist for Egg and Cheese Toasts?
Try adding avocado or hot sauce on top. You could also create a breakfast sandwich by adding bacon or sausage between two slices!
Final Thoughts
Egg and Cheese Toasts are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit any palate. Whether you stick with classic flavors or get creative with toppings, this breakfast dish is sure to delight. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!
Egg and Cheese Toasts – The Simple Breakfast I Always Come Back To
Egg and Cheese Toasts are the ultimate breakfast solution for busy mornings or lazy weekends. This quick, customizable dish features warm, crispy bread topped with gooey cheese and a perfectly cooked egg, delivering a satisfying start to your day. In just 15 minutes, you can create this delightful meal that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you prefer it simple or dressed up with fresh greens, avocado, or salsa, these toasts are sure to please everyone. Perfect for meal prep, you can whip up extra servings to enjoy throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (white, whole grain, or sourdough)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- 1 tsp finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F or air fryer to 370°F.
- Lightly toast the bread using a toaster or broil until golden.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg and mix in grated cheese, herbs, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne.
- Spread the egg mixture evenly over each slice of toasted bread.
- Bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes or air fry for 5–7 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 toast (120g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
