As I stood in my kitchen, the smell of freshly cracked eggs filled the air, sparking a wave of nostalgia from countless brunches past. Today, I’m thrilled to share my simple yet elegant recipe for Shirred Eggs, featuring the delightful combination of creamy Parmesan and vibrant chives. This dish not only embraces the elegance of baked eggs but is also quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for a leisurely weekend breakfast or brunch. Plus, with easy dairy-free adaptations, you can cater to any dietary preference without sacrificing flavor or comfort. Are you ready to elevate your brunch game and discover how these exquisite Shirred Eggs can transform your mornings? Why are Shirred Eggs a must-try? Deliciously Simple: This dish requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Creamy Comfort: The rich blend of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan creates a luscious texture, while the runny yolk adds an indulgent touch. Versatile Variations: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your needs with dairy-free options or by adding your favorite vegetables and meats, like in my Air-Fryer Breakfast Potatoes. Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, these Shirred Eggs are perfect for brunch when you want something special without the long wait. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your guests with a dish that offers both elegance and comfort, a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or a cozy weekend meal. Shirred Eggs Ingredients For the Ramekins • Unsalted Butter – Greases the ramekin for non-stick cooking. Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version. • Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the texture. Replace with high-fat oat milk or vegan cashew cream for a dairy-free option. For the Eggs • Large Eggs – The star of the dish, providing protein and richness; fresh, local eggs are recommended for the best flavor. • Salt – Enhances the flavor of the eggs; adjust to your personal taste. • Black Pepper – Adds warmth and spice; freshly ground is preferred for the best flavor. For the Garnish • Minced Fresh Chives – Provides fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color; can be replaced with green onions or omitted for simplicity. • Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, umami flavor to the dish; can be swapped with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shirred Eggs Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the heat is even and ready for your charming Shirred Eggs. An adequately preheated oven is key to achieving that creamy texture you desire. While the oven warms up, gather your ramekins and butter to get started. Step 2: Prepare the Ramekin Take a 6-ounce ramekin and generously grease it with unsalted butter, making sure to cover all sides for easy release. A well-greased ramekin will ensure your Shirred Eggs cook evenly and slide out effortlessly. Next, set your prepared ramekin aside as you gather the remaining ingredients. Step 3: Add the Cream Pour a generous splash of heavy cream into the greased ramekin. The cream plays a crucial role in adding richness and creaminess to your Shirred Eggs, creating that delightful, custard-like texture. Make sure the cream coats the bottom evenly before proceeding to the next step. Step 4: Crack the Eggs Gently crack your large eggs on top of the cream, being cautious not to break the yolks. You want those beautiful, runny yolks intact as they are the star of this dish! Ensure there’s enough space for each egg, allowing for a lovely presentation that will impress your brunch guests. Step 5: Season the Eggs Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the eggs, enhancing their flavor remarkably. This simple seasoning elevates your Shirred Eggs, making them taste divine. Delicately add minced chives and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to introduce an aromatic and savory touch. Step 6: Bake the Dish Carefully place the ramekin on a baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, keeping a close eye on the eggs as the whites should be set and the yolks remain beautifully runny. A slight jiggle in the center signifies perfect doneness; remove from the oven when ready. Step 7: Let it Rest Once out of the oven, allow your Shirred Eggs to rest for a couple of minutes. This short waiting period helps the dish settle, making it more enjoyable to serve. As it cools slightly, the aromas will waft through your kitchen, enticing all who enter! Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Gently present your Shirred Eggs as the star of your brunch spread, ideally paired with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The creamy yolks await and will steal the show, inviting everyone to savor the delicious flavors you’ve created. Delight in this elegant dish that’s ready to impress! How to Store and Freeze Shirred Eggs Best Enjoyed Fresh: Shirred eggs are best enjoyed immediately after baking for the creamiest texture and runny yolks. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 1 day in an airtight container. Reheating: When reheating, place the shirred eggs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes. This preserves their texture, but the yolks may firm up. Freezing Not Recommended: Freezing shirred eggs isn’t advised, as the texture may degrade once thawed and reheated. Enjoy them fresh for the best experience! Expert Tips for Shirred Eggs Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality, farm-fresh eggs and cream for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the taste of your Shirred Eggs. Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your eggs while baking; overcooking will lead to firm yolks, losing that luscious runny texture you want. Ramekin Alternatives: If you don’t have ramekins, any small oven-safe dish can work. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for even cooking. Mind the Seasoning: Season your eggs well with salt and pepper, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Taste as you go to achieve the right balance for your palate. Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add sautéed vegetables, meats, or different herbs to your Shirred Eggs for a personalized twist on this delightful dish. Shirred Eggs: Customization Ideas Elevate your Shirred Eggs by exploring delightful variations that cater to your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for vegan butter and heavy cream for oat milk or vegan cashew cream for a lighter touch. You won’t miss the creaminess! Herb Infusion: Add a mix of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to complement the chives, creating a fragrant burst of flavor. Imagine the freshness in every bite! Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms before adding the eggs for extra nutrition and a heartier dish. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens! Protein Punch: Toss in diced ham, bacon, or smoked salmon for a protein-packed version that amps up the savory appeal. Your brunch guests will be thanking you! Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an exciting kick. It transforms the flavor profile in the best way! Cheesy Twist: Mix different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor experience. The melty goodness will make your mouth water! Smoky Flavor: Stir in a hint of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky essence that beautifully complements the richness of the eggs. Quick Breakfast: Prepare ahead of time by prepping your ingredients the night before and baking in the morning. Enjoy delicious Shirred Eggs with minimal effort! Make your brunch unforgettable by personalizing your Shirred Eggs, and don’t forget to serve them with delightful sides like Air-Fryer Breakfast Potatoes or even alongside a beautiful presentation of Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus for the ultimate dining experience. Enjoy! Make Ahead Options These Shirred Eggs are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during brunch preparations! You can prepare the ramekins by greasing them and adding the cream up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate. To maintain quality, cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any absorption of odors and keep the cream fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply crack the eggs on top, season them, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the exquisite flavors with minimal effort, creating a delightful brunch dish that’s just as delicious and impressive as if made fresh! What to Serve with Elegant Shirred Eggs with Parmesan and Chives There’s nothing quite like a cozy brunch, and these delightful eggs deserve some fabulous companions to elevate your experience. Toasted Crusty Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping into the creamy yolks, adding a satisfying crunch to each delectable bite. Air-Fryer Breakfast Potatoes: The crispy, golden potatoes provide a hearty, savory balance to the silkiness of the shirred eggs, making for a well-rounded meal. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Offers an exciting play of flavors and textures, with salty, crispy bacon enveloping tender asparagus—delightful alongside the eggs! Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory eggs, perfect for a wholesome brunch. Fruit Salad: Juicy, sweet fruit adds a lovely touch of brightness, cutting through the creaminess with a delightful burst of flavor that complements the dish. Sparkling Mimosa: This effervescent drink enhances your meal’s celebration, with the citrus notes sharpening the rich flavors of the shirred eggs, making each sip a joy. Herb Frittata: For a more substantial option, a light frittata packed with fresh herbs echoes the flavors of the chives, adding variety to your brunch spread. Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries offers a nutritious, sweet counterpoint to the richness of the eggs—perfect for balancing textures. Shirred Eggs Recipe FAQs What types of eggs are best for Shirred Eggs? Absolutely! For the best flavor and richness, I recommend using high-quality, farm-fresh large eggs. Local eggs often have a more vibrant yolk color and superior taste compared to mass-produced options. How do I store leftovers of Shirred Eggs? If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. I’ve found that they are best enjoyed fresh, as the runny yolks and creamy texture may change upon reheating. Can I freeze Shirred Eggs? It’s generally not recommended to freeze Shirred Eggs, as the texture can degrade once thawed and reheated. The creamy consistency you love may not hold up, so it’s best to enjoy them immediately after baking. What should I do if my yolks are firm after baking? Ah, the delicate balance of baking! If your yolks turn out firm, it may be due to overbaking. Next time, keep a close eye as they bake for 12-15 minutes and look for a slight jiggle in the center. It’s vital to check often, as ovens can vary. Are there any dietary considerations for Shirred Eggs? Very! To cater to dairy-free diets, you can replace unsalted butter with vegan butter and heavy cream with high-fat oat milk or vegan cashew cream. If you have allergies, always ensure your ingredients are free from any allergens that concern you. How do I ensure even cooking in ramekins? For even cooking, make sure to grease your ramekin thoroughly. Also, placing the ramekin on a baking sheet helps with heat distribution. If you don’t have ramekins, go for any small oven-safe dishes but adjust the baking time as needed for optimal results. Irresistible Shirred Eggs with Creamy Dreamy Yolk Delight Experience the delightful taste of Shirred Eggs with creamy Parmesan and vibrant chives—an elegant yet simple breakfast dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 2 minutes minsTotal Time 22 minutes mins Servings: 2 servingsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Ramekins1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter or substitute with vegan butter for dairy-free2 tablespoons Heavy Cream or replace with oat milk or cashew cream for dairy-freeFor the Eggs4 large Large Eggs Fresh, local eggs are recommended1 pinch Salt Adjust to personal taste1 pinch Black Pepper Freshly ground preferredFor the Garnish2 tablespoons Minced Fresh Chives Can be replaced with green onions or omitted2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese Or substitute with nutritional yeast for dairy-free Equipment OvenRamekinBaking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Shirred EggsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Grease a 6-ounce ramekin with unsalted butter, covering all sides.Pour a generous splash of heavy cream into the greased ramekin.Gently crack the large eggs on top of the cream.Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the eggs, then add chives and Parmesan cheese.Place the ramekin on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.Let the Shirred Eggs rest for a couple of minutes before serving.Serve and enjoy with slices of crusty bread for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 370mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesShirred eggs are best enjoyed immediately after baking for the creamiest texture. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day and reheat in the oven to preserve texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
