13 Satisfying Ways To Cook Eggs For Dinner
You might think eggs are just for breakfast, but with their protein-packed goodness, eggs can easily be a delicious dinner, leaving you fully satiated. There are so many options to choose from with egg dinners.
One example is the classic omelet. You can include cheese, vegetables, or even leftover meats. For a heartier twist, try a frittata — a baked dish similar to an omelet but with more substantial fillings like potatoes, sausage, or spinach. Alternatively, whip up a batch of Eggs Benedict, featuring poached eggs atop English muffins with hollandaise sauce and your choice of ham, bacon, or smoked salmon. But if you're curious about healthier options, a veggie-packed egg stir-fry or a nutrient-dense egg salad with mixed greens is for you! The runny yolk of a poached egg will complement a variety of dishes, from avocado toast to grain bowls.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with international flavors. Prepare a Spanish tortilla, a thick omelet with layers of sliced potatoes and onions. Or indulge in shakshuka, a Middle Eastern dish where eggs are gently poached in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce.
Let's delve into how to cook these and other egg dishes — as we present 13 mouthwatering ways to cook eggs for dinner.
Scrambled eggs
When it comes to quick and satisfying dinners, scrambled eggs are unbeatable. With their fluffy texture and endless possibilities for seasoning, they can easily be transformed into a flavorful meal. First, crack a few eggs into a bowl and whisk them until the yolks and whites are combined. Season the mixture with herbs like chives, parsley, or basil, infusing the eggs with freshness. If you prefer a bit of a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Add vegetables to the mix to make your meal more nutritious and colorful. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or spinach bring a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Cook the vegetables in a separate pan until tender, then fold them into the scrambled eggs. Incorporate your favorite cheese into the eggs for added richness and depth of flavor, whether it's shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, or creamy goat cheese. Find out when is the best time to add cheese to scrambled eggs! In addition, check out The Ultra Crispy Ingredient For Toasty Scrambled Eggs.
Once you have seasoned your eggs and prepared any other ingredients, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt a pat of butter or drizzle some oil. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and gently stir it with a spatula. Continuously fold the eggs over themselves as they cook, ensuring they remain moist and fluffy. Within minutes, your scrambled eggs will be ready to serve! Pair them with a side of buttered toast or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying dinner!
Fried eggs
With their golden yolks and crispy edges, fried eggs are a classic dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you prefer sunny-side-up or over-easy, fried eggs are a delicious option when paired with toast or served atop a bed of sautéed vegetables. Fried eggs can also be added to many dishes, like a burger, sandwich, bowl of fried rice, or noodles.
To begin, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil or pat of butter. Allow the oil or butter to melt and evenly coat the pan's surface. Carefully crack the eggs into the skillet, being cautious not to break the yolks. Season the eggs with salt and pepper or any other desired spices, such as paprika or chili flakes, for an extra kick of flavor.
For sunny-side-up eggs, cook them undisturbed until the whites are set, and the yolks remain runny. If you prefer over-easy eggs, gently flip them using a spatula once the whites have cooked, and cook for another minute to achieve a slightly runny yolk. Once your fried eggs are cooked to your liking, you can serve them alongside crispy toasted bread slices, allowing the yolks to be sopped up with each bite.
Baked eggs in avocado
Baked eggs in avocado combine the creaminess of avocado with the lusciousness of baked eggs. This simple, nourishing recipe requires few ingredients and minimal effort. They can be served independently or accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread.
Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature, typically around 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Take a ripe avocado and carefully cut it in half lengthwise. Gently twist the halves to separate them and remove the pit. Next, scoop out a small amount of flesh from each avocado half to create a well to hold the egg. Then, crack an egg into each avocado half, allowing it to settle into the well. The creamy avocado acts as a natural vessel, cradling the egg and adding a rich flavor to the final dish. Season the eggs with salt and pepper, or add your favorite herbs and spices.
Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet or dish. Bake the eggs and avocados in the oven for approximately 12 to 15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your desired consistency. If you prefer runny yolks, aim for the shorter end of the cooking time, while a longer cooking time will result in firmer yolks. Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the baking sheet or dish from the oven. Garnish with your favorite toppings — add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, salsa dollop, or yummy hot sauce drizzle. And enjoy!
Egg curry
Egg curry combines the creaminess of poached eggs with a flavorful and aromatic curry sauce. This recipe takes inspiration from the authentic dhaba-style egg curry, where a rich and fragrant curry sauce is prepared with spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk — perfect with rice or bread!
To begin, gather the necessary ingredients and follow the recipe from The Flavours of Kitchen. The recipe typically involves creating a base by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger until they turn golden brown and release their aromatic flavors. Then, an array of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala are added to the mixture, infusing the curry with a medley of vibrant flavors. Once the spices have been toasted, tomatoes are incorporated into the curry sauce. The tomatoes are cooked down until they form a thick and luscious sauce.
Egg curry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger Indian meal. Its hearty and satisfying nature makes it a crowd-pleaser, and the combination of spices, tomatoes, coconut milk, and poached eggs creates a flavor explosion in every bite! You accompany this dish with steamed rice or warm bread, such as naan or roti, to soak up the flavorsome sauce.
Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a popular and flavorful dish from North Africa and the Middle East. It features a vibrant tomato and bell pepper stew infused with aromatic spices like cumin and paprika, in which eggs are gently cracked and simmered to perfection. The dish is usually served with crusty bread.
To prepare shakshuka, you can follow the recipe provided by Downshiftology. The recipe typically involves sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they become tender and slightly caramelized, imparting a sweet and smoky flavor. Adding spices like cumin and paprika adds depth and warmth to the stew.
Once the eggs are cooked, the shakshuka is ready to be enjoyed. Combining the rich tomato and bell pepper stew with the creamy and perfectly cooked eggs is a match made in culinary heaven! Serve the shakshuka hot, preferably in the same skillet, with a side of crusty bread for dipping and sopping up the delicious sauce.
Shakshuka can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It offers a burst of flavors, textures, and colors sure to please the palate. Combining tangy tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, fragrant spices, and fluffy eggs creates a pleasant, memorable dining experience.
Egg and vegetable stir-fry
Egg and vegetable stir-fry mixes fresh vegetables and eggs, offering a wholesome, tasty dinner! To begin, pick and chop the vegetables you like. Bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and carrots are popular options if you're unsure. Next, heat a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the vegetables to the pan and stir-fry them until they become tender yet slightly crunchy.
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare scrambled or fried eggs separately. For scrambled eggs, whisk the eggs in a bowl and season them with salt, pepper, or any desired herbs and spices. Cook the eggs in a separate pan until they are fluffy. If you prefer fried eggs, heat a little oil in a pan and crack them into it, cooking until the whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny. Once the vegetables are cooked, and the eggs are ready, combine them in the wok or skillet. Gently toss them together, allowing the eggs to coat the vegetables.
You can add a sauce or seasoning of your choice. Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, or a splash of vinegar adds a savory and tangy element to the stir-fry. Experiment with different combinations to find your preferred flavor! Serve the egg and vegetable stir-fry as is, or pair it with steamed rice or noodles. The stir-fry is so light and healthy!
Frittata
Frittatas are easy to whip up, allowing you to incorporate various ingredients such as vegetables, meats, or seafood. Baked until golden, a frittata is a satisfying and flavorful option for any meal! To create a frittata, follow this recipe by Love and Lemons. The recipe typically begins with whisking eggs in a bowl until well beaten. Cheese is added, such as shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, or crumbled feta — whatever you please!
Next, you can experiment with vegetables, meats, or seafood to add to the frittata. Sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, spinach, or diced tomatoes are popular options that bring vibrant colors, textures, and flavors to the dish. Add cooked bacon, diced ham, or smoked salmon for protein and richness. Once the ingredients are ready, preheat the oven and heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add oil and any desired seasonings or herbs to the skillet. Then, pour the egg mixture into the skillet, ensuring it evenly coats the ingredients. Allow the frittata to cook for a few minutes on the stovetop until the edges start to set.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven — bake the frittata until it is fully set and golden brown. The cooking time will vary depending on the skillet's size and the frittata's thickness, but it typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes. Once the frittata is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Accompany with a side salad or slice of crusty bread!
Egg-fried rice
To make this delectable meal, start by cooking a batch of rice. Next, heat a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in your choice of vegetables, such as diced carrots, peas, bell peppers, or onions. Stir-fry the vegetables until they become tender yet still crisp. If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, add diced ham or shrimp to the pan along with the vegetables. Cook them until the ham is slightly browned or the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Now, create a well in the center of the pan by pushing the rice and vegetables to the sides. Crack an egg into the well and quickly scramble it. As the egg starts to cook, gently stir it into the surrounding rice and vegetables. Continue stirring until the egg is fully cooked and evenly distributed throughout the dish. The egg helps to bind the ingredients together and adds richness to the plate.
Once everything is well mixed, season the fried rice with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Give it a final toss to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed. Egg-fried rice is a satisfying meal, but it can also be served as a side dish alongside other Asian-inspired dishes. It's a quick and easy way to transform plain rice into a tasty and fulfilling meal packed with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
Egg drop soup
Egg drop is a staple in Chinese cuisine, best known for its simplicity and comfort. Simmer chicken or vegetable broth in a pot to make this delightful soup. The broth serves as the flavorful base for the dish, providing a rich, aromatic foundation. While the broth is simmering, prepare the eggs by beating them in a bowl until combined. The eggs will be gently poured into the hot liquid. You can incorporate various ingredients to enhance the flavor and add more substance to the soup. Vegetables such as thinly sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, or bok choy can be added to the simmering broth.
Add tofu or cooked chicken for a heartier version of egg drop soup. Tofu adds a smooth and creamy element, while cooked chicken offers a satisfying protein boost. These additions can make the soup a complete, filling meal.
The Woks of Life provides a detailed recipe for making egg drop soup. Whether you want a light and comforting appetizer or a satisfying meal, egg drop soup can be enjoyed alone or alongside other Chinese dishes.
Spanish tortilla
A Spanish tortilla is a classic and beloved dish in Spanish cuisine. It is a simple yet flavorful omelet-like creation made by frying sliced potatoes and onions until tender and then pouring beaten eggs over the mixture.
First, peel and slice potatoes into thin rounds to make a traditional Spanish tortilla in this dish. Cook potatoes in hot olive oil until tender and slightly golden. Add thinly sliced onions to the pan and gently stir until soft and caramelized. In a separate bowl, beat eggs until well mixed and seasoned with salt and pepper. Pour beaten eggs over the cooked potatoes and onions, allowing the mixture to set. The tortilla is cooked on one side until the eggs are firm, and then it is carefully flipped to cook the other side, resulting in a golden and slightly crispy exterior.
The Mediterranean Dish provides helpful tips for making an authentic Spanish tortilla. Spanish tortilla is served warm or at room temperature and often cut into wedges and enjoyed as a tapa, a small plate served alongside other Spanish appetizers, or with fresh salad or crusty bread.
Poached eggs with smashed avocado
Poached eggs with smashed avocado is a satisfying and flavorful combination for a delicious dinner option. Begin by poaching the eggs. Gently crack fresh eggs into a pot of simmering water with a splash of vinegar, which helps the eggs retain their shape. Allow the eggs to cook until the whites are set while the yolks remain runny.
While the eggs are poaching, prepare the smashed avocado. Take a ripe avocado, cut it in half, and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl and use a fork to smash it until it reaches your desired consistency. For added flavor, squeeze in some lemon or lime juice and season it with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Next, toast a slice of bread, then spread the smashed avocado generously on the toast, creating a flavorful bed for the poached eggs. Place the poached eggs on top of the avocado spread.
Poached eggs with smashed avocado is a nutritious and filling dish with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
This dish can be customized to suit your preferences by adding toppings such as sliced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a personalized masterpiece!
Egg and spinach salad
Egg and spinach salad is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the freshness of baby spinach leaves with the rich flavors of hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon bits, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad will satisfy and nourish you.
First, wash and dry the baby spinach leaves, then arrange the spinach leaves in a salad bowl as the base of the dish. Baby spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green that provides a fresh and vibrant backdrop for the other ingredients. Next, prepare the hard-boiled eggs in boiling water for about nine to 12 minutes. Once cooked, cool the eggs in cold water, peel them, and slice them into halves or quarters. For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, cook crispy bacon until golden and crisp. Crumble the bacon into small bits and sprinkle it over the salad. The smokey and savory bacon complements the spinach's freshness and the eggs' creaminess.
To add a juicy sweetness, halve or quarter cherry tomatoes and scatter them over the salad. Cherry tomatoes are visually appealing and contribute a burst of vibrant flavor. Finally, drizzle the salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. Feel free to add ingredients like crumbled feta cheese, sliced cucumbers, or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor. Pair with crusty bread or a side of grilled chicken!
Egg tacos
Egg tacos can be enjoyed anytime — they are classically delicious and convenient for a quick and satisfying meal. Egg tacos can be enjoyed with refried beans or fresh green salad. You can opt for vegetarian or vegan-friendly ingredients as well!
Start by cracking eggs into a bowl and whisking them until well beaten. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the beaten eggs, gently stirring as they cook to achieve a soft, fluffy texture. While the eggs are cooking, prepare your favorite toppings. Grate some cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. Chop up ripe avocado into slices or chunks, providing rich buttery contrast to the eggs. If desired, cook bacon until crispy and crumble into bits. Lastly, have some salsa or hot sauce to give the tacos a zesty kick!
Once the eggs are scrambled, warm up the tortillas in a dry skillet or oven. Spoon the scrambled eggs onto the center of each tortilla and top with your chosen ingredients — cheese, avocado, bacon, and a dollop of salsa. Feel free to get creative and add other toppings like diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice. Yum!