Baked Feta Eggs: A Mediterranean-Inspired Delight for Breakfast or Brunch
Breakfast and brunch are meals that often set the tone for the rest of the day. They have the power to awaken the senses and nourish the body in ways that energize and delight. Among the many options available, there’s a dish that stands out for its ability to combine simplicity, elegance, and irresistible flavors—baked feta eggs. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe brings together creamy feta cheese, roasted vegetables, and perfectly baked eggs to create a comforting, yet sophisticated, breakfast or brunch experience. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch with friends or preparing a cozy solo meal, baked feta eggs offer a wonderful balance of taste, texture, and convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes: These small tomatoes burst with natural sweetness when roasted, creating a caramelized flavor that complements the tangy feta. Their juiciness adds a wonderful balance to the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: The red bell pepper adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of color. Roasting the pepper brings out its natural sugars, which adds to the depth of flavor in the dish.
- ½ small red onion, diced: Red onions are milder and sweeter than yellow onions, adding a gentle sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes and bell peppers.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: Garlic is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, and it lends an aromatic depth to the dish that complements the sweetness of the vegetables and the tang of the feta.
- 8 ounces feta cheese: The star of this dish, feta cheese adds creaminess, saltiness, and a tangy kick. As it bakes, it softens and melds with the vegetables, creating a rich and savory sauce that brings everything together.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is essential for roasting the vegetables, adding a rich, fruity flavor while ensuring everything caramelizes beautifully. It also helps bring out the natural flavors of the tomatoes and peppers.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano is a classic herb in Mediterranean cooking. It adds a herby, savory flavor that ties all the ingredients together and enhances the dish’s overall complexity.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Salt is the flavor enhancer that brings out the natural sweetness in the tomatoes and peppers while balancing the tangy feta cheese.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme’s earthy, slightly floral flavor adds warmth and a comforting note that complements the vegetables and cheese.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth, rounding out the flavors and bringing everything together harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a little heat, red pepper flakes provide a slight kick that balances the richness of the feta and eggs.
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach: Spinach adds a fresh, earthy flavor and a boost of nutrients. Its delicate texture wilts perfectly when stirred into the hot, roasted vegetables.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs are the perfect addition to this dish, providing protein and richness while serving as the base for the baked “nest” that holds all the flavors together.
- Optional toppings: Chopped fresh basil or fresh chives are the ideal finishing touches, adding color, brightness, and a burst of fresh flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help the vegetables roast quickly while allowing the feta to melt and become beautifully golden and creamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Feta
If you are using individual ramekins for serving, divide the tomatoes, diced bell pepper, onion, garlic, and feta cheese evenly among the ramekins. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over each ramekin. If you prefer to make the dish in a single baking dish, combine the tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic in the dish, then place the feta in the center and drizzle the olive oil over the top.
The olive oil will help the vegetables roast and develop a rich, caramelized flavor while preventing them from drying out. The feta will soften as it bakes, becoming slightly melted and integrated into the vegetables.
Step 3: Season the Dish
In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, sea salt, dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over the vegetables and feta. The seasoning will infuse the dish with aromatic flavors that perfectly complement the roasted ingredients.
Step 4: Roast the Vegetables and Feta
Place the ramekins or the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for about 25 minutes. The tomatoes will begin to burst, releasing their juices and becoming sweet and tender, while the peppers and onions will soften and caramelize. The feta will melt slightly, becoming creamy and rich. After 25 minutes, remove the dish from the oven.
Step 5: Stir in the Spinach
At this point, the vegetables should be roasted, and the feta should be softened. Stir the contents of the dish to combine the feta with the vegetables. Add the chopped spinach and stir until well mixed. The residual heat will wilt the spinach, adding a burst of freshness and vibrant green color to the dish.
Step 6: Add the Eggs
Using a spoon, create a well in the center of each ramekin or four wells in the large baking dish. Crack one egg into each well. The egg yolks will create a beautiful, golden center, which will provide richness to the dish when cooked. If you’re using a single baking dish, space the wells evenly so each egg has enough room to cook properly.
Step 7: Bake the Eggs
Return the dishes to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking. For runny yolks, check the eggs after about 8 minutes. If you prefer the yolks fully cooked, leave them in the oven for the full 10 minutes. The egg whites should be set, but the yolk should remain soft and creamy.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the eggs are baked to perfection, remove the dishes from the oven. Top the baked feta eggs with freshly chopped basil or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the dish immediately with crusty baguette slices, toasted pita bread, or even a warm, buttery croissant. The bread will be perfect for dipping into the rich egg yolk and the creamy feta mixture.
Notes
- Cheese: While feta is the traditional choice, you can also use goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor. Goat cheese will offer a tangier flavor, while ricotta will be milder and creamier.
- Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. Roasted artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes also make excellent additions.
- Herbs and Spices: Swap out the oregano and thyme for Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence for a unique twist. Fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon can also bring freshness to the dish.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, replace the eggs with a plant-based protein source such as chickpeas, tofu, or a vegan egg substitute. Skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Heat: If you love spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a few fresh chili slices to amp up the heat.