Elevate Your Morning: The Ultimate Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg In A Hole Recipe
Transform your ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary culinary experience with our Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg In A Hole. This delightful dish is precisely what you crave to kickstart your day, and the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes! Combining savory ham, gooey melted cheese, creamy avocado, and a perfectly runny egg nestled in toasted bread, all you’ll need is your favorite mug of coffee to ensure your day begins on the most delicious note possible. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that brings comfort and flavor to your morning table.
For a significant portion of my life, the idea of a “real” breakfast was a foreign concept. If you knew me back then, you’d know I wasn’t much of a morning meal enthusiast. My childhood mornings were almost exclusively dedicated to cereal – a giant bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Reese’s Puffs was my go-to, even when my mom lovingly prepared more traditional breakfast fare. My palate, it seemed, was solely attuned to the sweet and crunchy delights found in a box.
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You could say I had a bit of a sweet tooth back then… Not that it’s really gone away!
It wasn’t until I ventured into the “real world” and the demands of a professional career began to kick in that I truly grasped the immense importance of fueling my body with a substantial, nutritious breakfast. Gone were the days of sugar rushes followed by midday crashes. I needed sustained energy and focus, and that meant shifting my breakfast habits dramatically.
It certainly took me a considerable amount of time and experimentation to discover what kind of breakfast truly resonated with me. I explored various options, from oatmeal to smoothies, but nothing quite stuck until I stumbled upon the simple yet brilliant concept of “egg in a hole.” From that moment, I was completely hooked. It offered everything I sought: ease of preparation, satisfying heartiness, and that irresistible combination of a runny yolk with perfectly toasted bread, ideal for soaking up every last drop of deliciousness.
Why This Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg in a Hole is a Game-Changer
The classic egg in a hole is fantastic on its own, but this particular rendition elevates it to an entirely new level. It’s not just a slice of bread with an egg in the center; this is an amped-up version, bursting with extra flavor and texture. We’re talking about savory slices of ham layered within, complemented by a generous sprinkle of gooey, melted cheese that forms a delicious crust around the edges. A carefully chosen spice blend adds a subtle kick, while a topping of creamy, ripe avocado brings a fresh, healthy, and incredibly satisfying richness that makes the dish even more hearty and substantial.
What’s truly remarkable is how effortlessly this entire gourmet breakfast comes together. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your plate. This means you can take your time brewing that perfect cup of coffee, enjoying the morning quiet as these savory slices bake to golden perfection in the oven. The hands-on time is minimal, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays when you need something quick but don’t want to compromise on taste or nutrition.
Every single time I prepare this Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg In A Hole, the result is consistently flawless: a beautifully cooked white with a perfectly runny, golden yolk. It’s a truly fantastic breakfast to kickstart any day, providing essential protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full and energized. But its appeal isn’t limited to weekdays; it also makes for an absolutely killer addition to a relaxed weekend brunch spread, impressing guests with its vibrant presentation and incredible flavor. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a mood-setter, promising a good day ahead.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Preparing this incredibly satisfying breakfast is remarkably straightforward, requiring only a few basic kitchen tools. You won’t need an elaborate setup, making it perfect for even the most minimalist kitchens. Firstly, you’ll want a reliable set of measuring cups. Specifically, the one-cup measure will be crucial for creating that distinct “hole” in your bread slices, forming a perfect well for the delicious fillings. Its sturdy base allows for an even press, ensuring consistency across all your servings.
Next on your list should be a half sheet baking pan. This versatile pan provides ample space for baking multiple slices of your cheesy ham avocado egg in a hole simultaneously, ensuring even cooking and beautiful browning. Lining it with parchment paper, as specified in the recipe, will also make for effortless cleanup.
Finally, a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are indispensable for preparing the creamy avocado topping. A sharp knife ensures clean, precise slices, adding to the visual appeal of your finished dish. These tools are common in most kitchens, meaning you’re likely already equipped to create this delightful morning treat!
Craving more egg-centric delights? Explore these other yummy egg recipes: Mexican Bacon Egg & Cheese Biscuit Bake | Ratatouille Hummus Toast | BLAT Eggs Benedict | Messy Eggs with Rough Cut Potatoes
Crafting Your Avocado Egg In A Hole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Assemble the Masterpiece
The journey to the perfect egg in a hole begins with your choice of bread. While I have a personal fondness for brioche due to its rich flavor and delightful texture that crisps up beautifully, don’t hesitate to experiment with other thick-cut varieties. Sourdough offers a pleasant tang and chewy crumb, while French bread provides a classic, airy base. The key is a substantial slice that can hold its shape and absorb the delicious runny yolk.
Once you’ve selected your bread, place each slice on your prepared baking sheet. Grab your one-cup measuring cup – it’s the perfect size for this task! Firmly press it down into the center of each slice of bread. This clever technique creates a neat, shallow divot, a cozy little nest designed specifically to cradle your ham and egg. This ensures everything stays in place as it bakes.
Next, lightly brush the exposed edges of your bread with olive oil. This not only encourages a beautiful golden-brown crust but also adds a subtle richness. Now, for the fillings: gently place two slices of ham into the divot of each bread slice, ensuring they cover the base. Then, carefully crack a fresh egg directly into the center of each ham-lined divot. Don’t worry if a little egg white spills over; the melted cheese will help contain it. Finally, generously sprinkle shredded cheese around the edges of each bread slice. As it bakes, this cheese will melt into a deliciously crispy, savory border.
To really elevate the flavor profile, whip up a quick and easy spice mix in a small bowl. This blend of chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder creates a wonderfully aromatic and savory seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each assembled egg in a hole. This final touch promises an extra burst of flavor with every bite, transforming a simple breakfast into something truly special.
Bake to Golden Perfection
With your masterpieces assembled, carefully transfer the sheet pan into your preheated oven. The magic happens quite quickly here; these cheesy ham avocado eggs in a hole only require about 15 minutes of baking time. This duration is specifically calibrated to achieve the ideal texture: the egg whites will be thoroughly cooked through and set, providing a firm yet tender base, while the yolk remains wonderfully runny and vibrant. This is the hallmark of egg perfection – a rich, liquid gold center ready to mingle with the savory ham, melted cheese, and toasted bread. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to ensure your preferred level of yolk doneness.
Garnish and Serve Immediately
Once baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible! To finish, sprinkle your warm egg in a hole creations generously with freshly chopped chives. The delicate oniony flavor and bright green color of the chives add a beautiful fresh counterpoint to the rich, savory components. Then, artfully arrange slices of creamy avocado on top of each. The cool, buttery avocado provides a wonderful textural contrast and a boost of healthy fats. For those who enjoy a little extra kick, a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can be added for a subtle hint of spice. Serve these delectable treats immediately to best enjoy the warmth, the melted cheese, and that glorious runny yolk. Pair with an extra dash of salt and pepper to taste, and perhaps a side of fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.
Planning a brunch gathering or just looking for more morning meal ideas? Check out my Breakfast recipes page for some tasty and inspiring options that will impress everyone.
Can you freeze egg in a hole?
While the convenience of freezing meals for later is often tempting, I strongly advise against freezing this Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg In A Hole recipe. The primary reason is that reheating a frozen egg in a hole will inevitably alter the egg’s texture. The delicate balance required for that coveted perfectly runny yolk, which is a signature characteristic of this dish, will be lost. The egg yolk will likely cook through further during the reheating process, resulting in a firm, rubbery texture rather than the desired luscious liquid center. For the best culinary experience, this dish is truly meant to be enjoyed fresh from the oven.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Similar to freezing, preparing this recipe significantly ahead of time isn’t recommended if your goal is to achieve that perfect, runny egg yolk. The process of reheating, even gently, will continue to cook the egg. This means that if you aim for a runny yolk, making it ahead and then reheating will likely lead to an overcooked egg, diminishing the dish’s optimal taste and texture. While you *can* try it if absolute convenience is your top priority, be prepared for a slightly different outcome. For maximum flavor and the quintessential runny yolk experience, it’s best to assemble and bake these just before serving.
This Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg In A Hole isn’t just a breakfast; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable and satisfying. It’s perfect for a quick start to your day or a leisurely weekend brunch. If you find yourself captivated by the delightful simplicity and robust flavors of this recipe, you’ll definitely want to try its lunchtime counterpart: the equally delicious and fresh grilled open-faced caprese sandwich! Enjoy creating and savoring these wonderful meals.
Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg In A Hole
equipment
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Half Sheet Pan
ingredients
- 4 slices bread
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 8 slices ham
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chopped chives
- 1 large avocado
- Crushed red pepper flakes
instructions
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Preheat oven to 350˚F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Place slices of bread on the prepared pan. Use a one cup measuring cup to press down the center of each slice. This will create a divot for the egg to go into!
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Brush the edges of the toast with oil evenly.
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Place 2 slices of ham in the center of the divot. Crack and egg inside of each divot. Sprinkle the edges of each slice with shredded cheese, dividing evenly between them all.
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In a small bowl, stir together chili pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over each slice.
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Bake for 15 minutes, until the white of the egg is cooked through but the yolk is still runny.
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Sprinkle with chopped chives and top with sliced avocado. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately.