Shirred Eggs (Baked Eggs with Spinach & Mushrooms) Recipe

Shirred Eggs (Baked Eggs with Spinach & Mushrooms) Recipe

Shirred eggs are a classic, simple, and elegant way to enjoy baked eggs. In this recipe, eggs are baked in a dish with sautéed spinach and mushrooms, creating a rich, flavorful combination. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this dish is nutritious and can be customized with your favorite herbs or additional toppings.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms), sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little color)
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or your choice)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, chives, or thyme)
• A dash of cream (optional, for richness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or oil. You can use small ramekins or a single oven-safe dish to bake the eggs.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if using) and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened.
• Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
• Add the minced garlic and spinach to the pan. Sauté until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Dish:

• Divide the sautéed spinach and mushroom mixture between your baking dishes or ramekins, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
• If using, drizzle a small dash of cream over the vegetables for added richness.
• Carefully crack one egg into each dish on top of the vegetables. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle with paprika (optional) and grated cheese.

4. Bake the Eggs:

• Place the ramekins or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until
• the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, bake for an extra 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the eggs are done, remove them from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Serve immediately with toasted bread or a side salad.

Tips:

• Add more veggies: You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it richer: If you like your eggs extra creamy, add a little bit of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream on top before baking.
• For more flavor: Consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese (like feta or goat cheese) on top of the eggs just before baking.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace the eggs with tofu or a chickpea flour scramble, and use plant-based cheese or skip it entirely.

This Shirred Eggs (Baked Eggs with Spinach & Mushrooms) recipe is perfect for a cozy breakfast or a light, nutritious dinner. Enjoy the combination of tender eggs, savory mushrooms, and vibrant spinach for a delicious and satisfying dish! 🍳🌿