Im a huge breakfast fan, and one of the things Ive missed most this last year is being able to sit down for a beautiful brunch (along with a few mimosas).
After so many months stuck in my own kitchen, Ive been getting bored of my usual egg recipes. So I decided to turn to Ina Garten for some morning-meal inspiration.
I spotted Gartens recipe for her smashed eggs on toast in her new cookbook, “Modern Comfort Food,” and was impressed that she could make such a simple dish look so delicious.
So I decided to take her recipe for a spin and — after a few cracked eggs — found a brand-new favorite brunch dish.
Hey there, food fam! If you ain’t tried smashed eggs on toast yet, lemme tell ya, you’re missing out on a straight-up game-changer for your breakfast or brunch game. Picture this perfectly jammy eggs, smashed right onto crispy, buttery toast, with a kick of flavor from whatever you’re vibin’ with—be it spicy chili oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs It’s simple, it’s quick, and it looks like you spent hours crafting somethin’ fancy At my house, this dish is a weekend staple, and I’m pumped to walk ya through how to whip it up and why it’s gonna be your new go-to.
I first stumbled on this gem during a lazy Sunday brunch with some pals. We was all hungover hungry and not in the mood for anything complicated. I threw together some soft-boiled eggs and toast with whatever I had in the fridge, and boom—magic on a plate. Since then, I’ve been tweaking and perfecting it, and now I’m sharing all my secrets with you. Let’s dive into what makes smashed eggs on toast so darn special and how you can make it like a pro.
What’s Smashed Eggs on Toast All About?
At its core, smashed eggs on toast is exactly what it sounds like. You take some eggs—usually boiled to that perfect soft or jammy stage—peel ‘em, and smash ‘em right onto a slice of toasted bread. The yolk oozes into the bread, makin’ it all rich and creamy, while the whites give ya a bit of texture. Then, you jazz it up with toppings or spreads to match your mood. Think butter, a smear of mustard, some sautéed greens, or a drizzle of somethin’ spicy. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist, and the best part? It takes like 20 minutes tops.
Why do I love it so much? Well for one it’s stupid easy to make. Two, it’s super customizable—ya can keep it basic or go full foodie with fancy add-ons. And three, it just feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding yourself on a quiet morning or impressing a brunch crew, this dish delivers every time.
How to Make Smashed Eggs on Toast: Step by Step
Alright, let’s get cookin’. I’m gonna break this down real simple so even if you’ve never boiled an egg in your life, you’ll nail it. We’re goin’ for a version with jammy eggs (not too runny, not too hard) on hearty sourdough with a few flavor boosts. Here’s what you need and how to do it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Eggs: 4 large ones work for 4 servings. I prefer ‘em straight from the fridge, but room temp is cool too.
- Bread: 4 thick slices of sourdough or multigrain. Somethin’ sturdy to hold up to the egg goo.
- Butter or Olive Oil: A tablespoon or two for toasting and flavor. Butter’s my jam for that rich taste.
- Spinach: A handful (about 8 oz) if you wanna add some greens. Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Garlic: 1-2 cloves, sliced thin, for the spinach. Optional, but adds a nice punch.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze (bout 2 teaspoons) to brighten up the greens.
- Chili Oil or Crunch: Just a drizzle for heat. If you don’t got this, hot sauce does the trick.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, duh. Don’t skimp on seasonin’.
- Optional Extras: Fresh dill, chives, or even a smear of whole-grain mustard for zing.
Equipment
- A medium pot for boiling eggs.
- A bowl for an ice bath (trust me, you’ll need it).
- A non-stick pan for toasting bread and sautéing spinach.
- A slotted spoon or tongs for handling eggs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Boil Them Eggs to Perfection
Fill a pot with water and crank it up to a boil. Gently lower your eggs in with a spoon so they don’t crack. Set a timer for exactly 7 minutes for that jammy yolk—creamy but not runny. If ya like it softer, go 5-6 minutes; harder, push to 9-10. Once done, scoop ‘em out and dunk ‘em straight into a bowl of ice water. Let ‘em chill for a couple minutes to stop the cookin’ and make peelin’ a breeze. -
Peel the Eggs
After they cool in the ice bath, tap each egg gently on a hard surface, startin’ at the narrow end. Peel slow and careful—jammy eggs are delicate. If the shell’s stickin’, try peelin’ under a trickle of cold water. Set ‘em aside for now. -
Sauté Some Spinach (Optional but Yum)
While the eggs cook, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium. Toss in sliced garlic for 30 seconds—don’t let it burn, just get it fragrant. Add your spinach, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes ‘til it wilts down (it shrinks a ton, so don’t freak). Squeeze out extra liquid, hit it with lemon juice, and set aside. -
Toast That Bread
Grab your bread slices and heat a pan on medium. Brush with butter or oil, then toast each side for 2-3 minutes ‘til golden and crispy. You can also pop ‘em in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes if you’re doin’ a big batch. Crispy is key—soggy toast ain’t gonna cut it with wet eggs. -
Assemble the Magic
Lay out your toasted bread. If you made spinach, spread a layer on each slice. Cut your eggs in half lengthwise and place one on each toast (or more if your bread’s big). Then, gently smash or chop the eggs right on there with a fork or knife—don’t cut through the bread, just let that yolk soak in. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of chili oil for a kick. If you’ve got extras like dill or mustard, add ‘em now. -
Serve and Dig In
Plate it up and eat right away while it’s warm. That yolk mixin’ with the crispy toast is pure heaven. Pair it with a strong coffee or a mimosa if you’re feelin’ festive.
Why Smashed Eggs on Toast Works So Good
Now that ya know how to make it, let’s chat about why this dish just hits different. First off, the contrast of textures is everything—crunchy toast against creamy egg is a match made in foodie heaven. Then there’s the flavor play. The egg’s richness pairs perfect with somethin’ sharp like mustard or spicy like chili oil. And if you throw in greens like spinach, you’re sneakin’ in some nutrition without even tryin’.
Plus, it’s a blank canvas. You can keep it minimalist with just egg and toast, or go wild with toppings. I’ve seen folks add avocado slices, crumbled bacon, even a smear of cream cheese. There’s no wrong way to do it, which is why I’m obsessed. It fits whatever mood I’m in—lazy or extra.
Tips to Nail It Every Time
I’ve made this a bunch, and lemme share some hard-earned wisdom so you don’t mess it up like I did the first few times.
- Egg Timing is Everything: Don’t eyeball it—use a timer. Seven minutes usually gets ya that jammy yolk, but stoves vary, so test it once to know your sweet spot.
- Room Temp Eggs: If your eggs are straight outta the fridge, let ‘em sit out for 10 minutes before boilin’. Cold eggs crack easier in hot water.
- Ice Bath is Non-Negotiable: Skip this, and your eggs keep cookin’ from residual heat. Plus, peelin’ becomes a nightmare. Two minutes in ice water, no exceptions.
- Pick Sturdy Bread: Flimsy white bread falls apart under egg weight. Go for sourdough, multigrain, or a thick country loaf. Toast it well so it holds up.
- Season Last: Add salt, pepper, and herbs right before eatin’ to keep flavors poppin’. If ya do it too early, it can get lost.
- Don’t Over-Smash: You wanna break the egg, not turn it into paste. Let some chunks of white stay for texture.
Variations to Switch It Up
One thing I love bout smashed eggs on toast is how ya can remix it endless. Here’s a few ideas I’ve tried or dreamt up to keep things fresh.
- Classic Mustard & Dill: Spread a thin layer of whole-grain mustard on the toast before addin’ the egg. Sprinkle fresh dill on top for a tangy, herby vibe. It’s zesty and cuts through the richness.
- Spicy Kick: If chili oil ain’t your thing, try a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. I’m a heat fiend, so I sometimes double up on both.
- Avocado Upgrade: Smash half an avo on the toast before the egg. Sprinkle with some sea salt and a squeeze of lime. It’s creamy on creamy, and I ain’t mad at it.
- Bacon or Prosciutto: Crumble some crispy bacon or lay a slice of prosciutto on top. That salty, meaty bite with egg is just chef’s kiss.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a slice of melted cheddar under the egg. It gets all gooey and takes it to comfort food central.
- Mediterranean Vibes: Swap spinach for arugula, add some crumbled feta, and a drizzle of olive oil. Maybe toss on a few chopped olives if you’re feelin’ wild.
Pairin’ It for the Perfect Brunch
Smashed eggs on toast shines on its own, but if you’re hostin’ a brunch or just treatin’ yourself, pair it with some extras to round out the meal. Here’s what I usually roll with.
- Drinks: A strong black coffee cuts through the richness. If it’s a celebratory vibe, whip up a mimosa—orange juice and bubbly never fail. Or go for a bloody mary if ya want somethin’ savory to match.
- Sides: Keep it light with a side of mixed greens or sliced fruit like berries and melon. If you’re extra hungry, fry up some hash browns or sausage links.
- Sweet Balance: Since this dish is savory, I like a lil’ sweet on the side. A small stack of pancakes or a yogurt parfait with honey does the trick.
A Lil’ History on Eggs and Toast
Now, I ain’t no historian, but eggs and bread been a power duo for ages. Think about it—folks been eatin’ boiled eggs with bread forever, from old-school European breakfasts to quick farmer meals. Smashed eggs on toast feels like a modern twist, prob’ly born from foodies wantin’ to fancy up the basics. It’s got that rustic charm but with a trendy edge, especially with all the gourmet toast crazes poppin’ off lately. I reckon it’s here to stay, ‘cause who don’t love egg yolk soakin’ into crispy carbs?
FAQ: Stuff You Might Wanna Know
I’ve gotten a bunch of questions when I share this recipe with friends, so lemme answer some common ones up front.
- Can I make it ahead of time?
Not really, ‘cause the toast gets soggy fast once the egg’s on it. But you can boil and peel the eggs a day or two ahead—keep ‘em whole in the fridge. Reheat in warm water for a minute before smashin’. Spinach can be sautéed early too. - What if I don’t like jammy eggs?
No prob. Boil ‘em shorter for runny (5-6 minutes) or longer for hard-boiled (9-10 minutes). The smashin’ still works, just changes the vibe a bit. - Best bread for this?
Sourdough’s my top pick for its tang and sturdiness. Multigrain or a thick country loaf works too. Avoid super soft sandwich bread—it’ll turn to mush. - How healthy is this anyway?
Pretty decent! Eggs pack protein, and if ya use whole-grain toast, you’re gettin’ some fiber. Add greens for vitamins. Of course, butter and oil bump up the fat, so go easy if you’re watchin’ that.
Why You Gotta Try This ASAP
Look, I get it—breakfast can be boring. Cereal, oatmeal, same old same old. But smashed eggs on toast? It’s a wake-up call for your taste buds without needin’ a ton of effort. It’s cheap, uses stuff ya prob’ly got in your kitchen right now, and looks like somethin’ straight outta a cafe. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, this dish is gonna impress.
I’ve made it for lazy solo mornings, for friends crashin’ at my place, even for a fancy-ish brunch party. Every time, it’s a hit. There’s somethin’ bout that creamy yolk seepin’ into crispy toast that just feels right. And when ya add your own spin—maybe a sprinkle of weird spice or a random topping—it becomes your signature.
Bonus: Turnin’ It Into a Brunch Party Star
If you’re thinkin’ of servin’ this to a crowd, let me drop some ideas to make it the talk of the party. Set up a smashed eggs on toast bar—yep, like a taco bar but for breakfast. Here’s how:
- Prep the Basics: Boil a bunch of eggs ahead (keep ‘em unpeeled in the fridge). Toast stacks of bread right before guests show.
- Toppings Galore: Lay out bowls of stuff—chili oil, hot sauce, fresh herbs, crumbled bacon, avocado slices, different cheeses, even some smoked salmon if you’re ballin’.
- Let ‘Em Build: Give everyone a plate and let ‘em smash their own eggs and pile on whatever. It’s interactive, fun, and everyone gets what they want.
- Drink Station: Set up a mimosa or bloody mary station with pitchers and garnishes. Keep coffee brewin’ too for the non-boozy crew.
I did this once for a birthday brunch, and folks couldn’t stop talkin’ bout how cool it was to customize their toast. Plus, it takes the pressure off me to cook everything perfect for each person.
Final Thoughts From Ya Boy
Smashed eggs on toast ain’t just food—it’s a vibe. It’s bout takin’ somethin’ as basic as eggs and bread and turnin’ it into a meal that feels special. I’ve messed up plenty of batches (overcooked eggs, soggy toast, ya name it), but each flub taught me how to get it right. Now, it’s one of my proudest kitchen wins, and I want you to feel that same rush when ya nail it.
So, grab some eggs, fire up that stove, and give this a shot. Play around with flavors, make it yours, and don’t be shy to show it off on socials—trust me, it’s photo-worthy. If ya got questions or wanna share how it turned out, hit me up in the comments. I’m all ears for new twists on this classic. Let’s keep the brunch love alive, fam!
While my eggs were chilling (literally), I started prepping the toast.
After the slices were done toasting, I spread butter and mustard on each one.
I have to be honest with you, reader, I read the recipe incorrectly here. I thought Garten recommended spreading half the slice with butter and half with mustard, which made for a cool picture but was definitely not the case.
What the “Barefoot Contessa” star actually wants you to do is spread each slice with ½ tablespoon of butter and ½ teaspoon of mustard.
Thankfully I really like mustard, so the extra flavor didnt put me off. But next time Ill wait to read the recipe until after Ive had a cup of coffee.
Also, a quick pro tip: Be sure to take your butter out of the fridge before you begin cooking your eggs. That way itll reach room temperature by the time youre ready to prep your toast, making it far easier to spread across the bread.
Then I had to get the eggs into the pan, which turned out to be just a little nerve-wracking.
Garten recommends using a slotted spoon to carefully lower the eggs into the water, one at a time.
“Dont allow them to fall into the pot,” she warns. “Or the shells will crack!”
Thankfully every egg was safe — but not for long.