Baked Feta Eggs

Introduction

When I first made Baked Feta Eggs, I knew it would be a hit with my family, but I was surprised at just how quickly it became a favorite. The creamy feta cheese combined with juicy tomatoes, bell peppers, and spinach creates a symphony of flavors that pairs perfectly with the perfectly baked eggs. We all enjoyed dipping crusty bread into the flavorful, warm dish, making it a fantastic and comforting breakfast or brunch option. My kids, who tend to be picky about vegetables, devoured the spinach and tomatoes without a single complaint! It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent, but is surprisingly healthy, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser when we have guests over. I now make this dish on repeat, especially on weekends when I want to impress family or friends without too much fuss.

Why You’ll Love Baked Feta Eggs

This Mediterranean-inspired dish is full of bright, fresh flavors that will have you hooked from the first bite. Here’s why you’ll love Baked Feta Eggs:

• Creamy & Savory: The creamy feta cheese combined with perfectly cooked eggs creates a savory base that is rich yet light.
• Customizable: You can adjust the veggies and spices to suit your preferences. The combination of tomatoes, peppers, and spinach is versatile, and you can swap them for whatever you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or kale.
• Healthy & Flavorful: This dish is loaded with vegetables and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy yet satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of 45 minutes, this dish is simple enough for a busy morning, but impressive enough for special occasions.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether you prepare it in individual ramekins or one large dish, this meal is perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Ingredients

• For the Base:
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces feta cheese
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
  • 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
• For the Eggs:
  • 4 large eggs
• Optional Toppings:
  • Chopped fresh basil or chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Choose your baking dish:

• For individual servings, use four ramekins (10-ounce capacity).
• For one large dish, use an 8×8 or 9×11-inch baking pan.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

• Individual Ramekins: Divide the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and feta cheese among the four ramekins. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each dish.
• Large Dish: Combine the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic in the dish, placing the feta cheese in the center. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over everything.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Bake
In a small bowl, mix the dried oregano, sea salt, dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the feta and vegetables.
Place the ramekins on a baking sheet (for easy handling) or place the large dish directly in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, until the veggies soften and the feta begins to melt.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Add Eggs
Remove from the oven and stir to mix the feta and vegetables evenly.
Add the chopped spinach and stir until well combined. Create wells in the center of each ramekin or four wells in the large dish. Crack an egg into each well.

Step 5: Bake the Eggs
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the eggs are set but slightly runny in the center.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil or chives if desired. Serve hot with crusty baguette, toast, or pita for dipping. Enjoy the savory, creamy, and delicious dish!

Nutrition Facts (Servings and calories per serving)

Serving Size: 1 ramekin or 1/4 of the large dish

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 14g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Here’s how to serve:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette, sourdough, or pita to dip into the flavorful mixture.
• Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich feta and eggs.
• Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit like citrus, berries, or melon balances the savory richness of the eggs.
• Greek Yogurt: For a true Mediterranean flair, serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side.
• Herb Garnish: Chopped fresh basil, chives, or parsley can add extra color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to experiment with different veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or kale if you prefer different flavors or want to use up ingredients you have on hand.
2. Feta Cheese Variations: You can use goat cheese or ricotta as an alternative to feta for a creamier texture.
3. Egg Consistency: If you prefer your eggs more cooked, you can bake for a bit longer; if you want them runnier, reduce the baking time slightly.
4. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add some cooked chicken or turkey sausage into the veggie mix before baking.
5. Use Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer, use fresh chopped tomatoes instead of grape or cherry tomatoes for a juicier base.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different kind of cheese instead of feta?
   Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or mozzarella for different textures and flavors.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the veggie and feta base in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the spinach and eggs before baking.
3. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
4. What if I don’t have ramekins?
   You can make the dish in one large baking dish instead. Just create wells for the eggs and bake as instructed.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
6. What can I serve with Baked Feta Eggs?
   You can serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or Greek yogurt for a balanced meal.
7. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
8. How long should I bake the eggs if I want them fully cooked?
   If you prefer fully cooked eggs, bake them for about 12-15 minutes, or until the yolks are set to your liking.
9. Can I use a non-dairy cheese?
   Yes, non-dairy feta or cheese alternatives can work well for a dairy-free version of this dish.
10. How long will leftovers last?
    Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Eggs are a delightful, healthy, and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. The combination of creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, caramelized onions, and perfectly baked eggs makes for a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly nutritious. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a weekend brunch, or just a special treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy this savory Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s guaranteed to please every palate!

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