As I pulled a tray of golden Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta from the oven, the rich aroma of za’atar wafted through my kitchen, transporting me to a bustling café in the heart of a Mediterranean market. This unique twist on breakfast not only elevates your brunch game but also brings a hearty, shareable delight to the table in just 30 minutes. Picture soft-baked eggs nestled inside fluffy buns, complemented by creamy spinach and tangy feta, making it the perfect dish for any gathering. Best of all, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly and effortlessly easy to customize. Could you imagine surprising your loved ones with a dish that’s as simple to make as it is impressive? Why Choose Baked Egg Buns? Uniqueness: These Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta offer a delightful twist on traditional brunch foods, combining the comfort of baked goods with a burst of flavor from za’atar. Quick to Prepare: Whip up this 30-minute recipe even on your busiest mornings—perfect for last-minute brunch plans! Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for sharing, these buns are both satisfying and aesthetically pleasing, making them a hit at gatherings. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or pairs nicely with Mini Baked Chicken for a complete meal. Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite greens or cheeses; the possibilities are endless—try adding different cheeses inspired by recipes like Egg Cheese Toasts to let your creativity shine. Comforting Texture: Enjoy a comforting bite where creamy spinach and perfectly baked eggs meet fluffy bread, all in one delicious package! Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Ingredients For the Buns • Kaiser Rolls or French Buns – Use fresh for best results; can substitute any similar bread. • Unsalted Butter – Greasing and adds flavor; omit if dairy-free. For the Filling • Eggs – Fresh eggs are recommended for the best texture and richness. • Spinach – Flavor and nutrition; can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if needed. • Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess; can replace with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative for lighter options. • Feta Cheese – Tanginess; substitute with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella if desired. • Garlic – Aromatic base; fresh minced garlic is preferable; garlic powder can be used in a pinch. • Cumin – Warmth and earthiness; omit or substitute with coriander for a different flavor profile. • Za’atar Seasoning – Unique herbal flavor; can substitute with Italian seasoning for a different twist. • Salt and Black Pepper – Enhancers; adjust to taste. • Olive Oil – Fat for sautéing and flavor; substituting with butter or another neutral oil is acceptable. For Serving • Sour Cream – Optional topping; Greek yogurt can be used as a healthful alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating, gather a large ovenproof dish and grease it with unsalted butter to prevent sticking. This will help ensure your Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta come out perfectly golden and intact. Set the prepared dish aside as you move to the next step. Step 2: Sauté the Garlic In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, sauté minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and softened but not browned. This aromatic base will infuse your filling with flavor, making your buns even more delightful. Take care to stir regularly to prevent burning. Step 3: Cook the Spinach Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. Stir in heavy cream, followed by seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. The creaminess of the mixture will perfectly complement the flavors in your Baked Egg Buns, so ensure it melds well before removing from heat. Step 4: Prepare the Buns Take your fresh Kaiser rolls or French buns and slice them in half. Gently create a small hole in each half, carefully removing some of the bread to form space for the egg filling. This will help you accommodate the eggs and luscious spinach mixture. Place the prepared buns cut-side up in the greased dish. Step 5: Assemble the Filling Spoon the cooked spinach mixture evenly into the hollowed-out buns, making sure to distribute it generously. Crack an egg gently into the center of each bun, allowing it to settle amidst the spinach. Then, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese around the eggs, enriching the Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta with tangy goodness. Step 6: Season and Brush Sprinkle za’atar seasoning and cumin over the assembled buns, adding depth and warmth to each bite. Lightly season with additional salt and black pepper to enhance the overall flavor, and finish by brushing the tops of the buns with olive oil for a beautiful golden finish when baked. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the buns; they are done when the eggs are cooked to your preferred doneness—less time for runny yolks and a bit longer for firmer eggs. The tops should be lightly golden and inviting. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Once baked to perfection, remove the Baked Egg Buns from the oven and let them cool for a moment. Serve the buns warm, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. These delightful buns are perfect for sharing and will impress any brunch gathering! Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Variations Feel free to mix and match with these fun variations to make this recipe your own! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free option. Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese or shredded mozzarella instead of feta for different flavor profiles. Greens Variety: Switch spinach for kale, arugula, or Swiss chard to explore different tastes and textures. Herb Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh chopped herbs like parsley or dill to the spinach mixture. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red chili flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling for a delightful spicy touch. Different Buns: Experiment with brioche or whole wheat rolls for a richer flavor or hearty texture. Extra Crunch: Top with panko breadcrumbs before baking for a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling. Serving Inspiration: Pair your baked buns with a refreshing salad or a fruit platter to create a stunning brunch spread. Delight your guests by serving them alongside delicious Mini Baked Chicken for a lovely meal combination. These variations can transform your brunch table, adding excitement and flavor to each bite! Enjoy creating your wonderful version of these baked delights! What to Serve with Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta There’s nothing quite like a fresh, vibrant meal to complement the warmth of baked goodness—let’s elevate your brunch experience! Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad featuring arugula and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the rich egg buns. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, herb-infused potatoes add a comforting crunch and pair beautifully with the creamy filling of the buns. Consider tossing them with za’atar for extra flair! Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits will sweeten your brunch spread, providing a burst of freshness that beautifully balances savory flavors. Herbed Yogurt Dip: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with fresh herbs as a zesty side, enhancing your meal with tang and creaminess. Tomato Soup: The classic combination of crispy buns with a warm bowl of tomato soup creates a comforting, homey meal. The flavors meld beautifully with each bite. Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing beverage, lemon-infused sparkling water cleanses the palate between bites of the savory egg buns. Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or calming herbal tea rounds out the meal, perfect for sipping as you savor the delightful flavors. These delightful pairings will not only enhance your culinary experience but also turn your baked egg buns into a memorable feast! Storage Tips for Baked Egg Buns Fridge: These Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns individually in airtight containers. They can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain their delightful texture. Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving baked egg buns at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality. Make Ahead Options These Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the spinach and feta filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring a delicious component is ready to go. Additionally, the buns can be assembled with the filling (without the eggs) up to 24 hours ahead of baking. When ready to serve, simply crack the eggs into the prepared buns and bake as instructed. To maintain quality, cover the assembled buns tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. This way, you can enjoy a fresh, warm brunch with minimal effort on the day of serving! Expert Tips for Baked Egg Buns • Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs, spinach, and buns for the best flavor and texture in your Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta. • Avoid Overcooking: Ensure spinach is wilted but not overcooked, preserving its vibrant color and nutrients for a delightful filling. • Customize with Ease: Feel free to swap greens or cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand, adding a personal touch. • Mind the Baking Time: Adjust baking time according to your desired egg doneness; less time keeps yolks runny, while more time firmens them. • Cleanup Tip: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup, making the cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best spinach for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for fresh spinach leaves that are vibrant green and crisp. Avoid any wilted or yellowing leaves, as well as those with dark spots all over. If needed, you can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a similar flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover Baked Egg Buns? These buns are best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them moist. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Can I freeze Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta? Very! To freeze, wrap each individual bun tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven. What should I do if my eggs crack while baking? I recommend gently tapping the eggs into the buns instead of cracking them on a hard surface. If they do crack, don’t worry! They’ll still taste great. Just ensure the filling isn’t overly runny, as that can lead to spillage during baking. Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan? Certainly! To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut cream. For vegan options, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) instead of chicken eggs, and opt for a vegan cheese alternative. Enjoy getting creative with it! How do I ensure my buns don’t dry out while baking? To keep your buns moist, brush the tops with olive oil before baking. It helps to lock in moisture, and you can also cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time, then remove it to allow browning towards the end. Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta for a Cozy Brunch Treat Baked Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta provide a unique twist on brunch, combining fluffy buns with soft-baked eggs for a delicious treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bunsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Buns4 pieces Kaiser Rolls or French Buns Use fresh for best results; can substitute any similar bread.1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Greasing and adds flavor; omit if dairy-free.For the Filling4 large Eggs Fresh eggs are recommended for the best texture and richness.2 cups Spinach Flavor and nutrition; can substitute with kale or Swiss chard.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Adds creaminess; can replace with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.1/2 cup Feta Cheese Tanginess; substitute with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella.2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is preferable.1 teaspoon Cumin Warmth and earthiness; omit or substitute with coriander.1 tablespoon Za’atar Seasoning Unique herbal flavor; can substitute with Italian seasoning.to taste Salt Enhancer; adjust to taste.to taste Black Pepper Enhancer; adjust to taste.1 tablespoon Olive Oil Fat for sautéing and flavor; substituting with butter is acceptable.For Serving1/2 cup Sour Cream Optional topping; Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative. Equipment OvenSkilletOvenproof dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a large ovenproof dish with unsalted butter.In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted, then stir in heavy cream and season with salt and black pepper.Take the buns and slice them in half, creating space for the filling. Place them cut-side up in the greased dish.Spoon the spinach mixture into the buns and crack an egg into each, then sprinkle with feta cheese.Sprinkle za’atar seasoning and cumin over the buns, season with salt and black pepper, and brush with olive oil.Bake for 15-20 minutes until the eggs reach your preferred doneness and the tops are lightly golden.Remove from the oven and serve warm, optionally topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Nutrition Serving: 1bunCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesThese buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and frozen for longer storage. Reheat in a preheated oven to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
