Egg-in-a-Nest Sandwich

Updated May 21, 2024

Recipe Overview

A beloved classic combining crispy, buttery bread, melted cheese, and a perfectly runny egg yolk—ideal for breakfast or brunch.

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 2 slices of bread (recommended: brioche, challah, or soft sandwich bread for texture)

• 1–2 tsp unsalted butter (for greasing the skillet)

• 1–2 slices (28–30g) melting cheese (e.g., Cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella)

• 1 large egg

• Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: 1–2 slices cooked ham or turkey bacon (for added protein)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Bread with a Hole

Using a 2–3 inch round biscuit cutter or a smooth glass (ensure the rim is even to avoid tearing), carefully cut a circular hole from the center of one slice of bread. Set the cutout bread aside for optional toasting (see Chef’s Tips).

Step 2: Sear the Bread in Butter

Heat a large nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan over medium-low heat. Add 1 tsp butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to coat the surface evenly.

Place both bread slices into the skillet. For the slice with the hole, position the hole toward the center to prevent the egg from spilling. Press the bread gently into the butter to ensure even absorption, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden brown on the bottom. Flip the bread slices carefully.

Step 3: Butter the Exposed Sides

After flipping, apply a thin layer of butter to the exposed side of the whole bread slice (without the hole). Add a small pat (½ tsp) of butter into the hole of the bread slice with the cutout. This ensures the hole area remains moist during egg cooking.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Crack the Egg

Place the cheese slice (the one without the hole) onto the skillet, cheese-side down. Crack the egg into the hole of the bread slice. Season the egg lightly with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid, leaving a small gap to allow steam to escape (this traps heat and ensures the egg white sets while keeping the yolk runny).

Step 5: Cook Until Egg is Set

Cook for 2–4 minutes until the egg white is fully set but the yolk remains runny. If the bread edges brown too quickly, reduce heat to low.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

If using ham or bacon, lay the cooked protein over the cheese layer. Gently top with the egg-containing bread slice (hole-side up, yolk visible). Press lightly to secure the ingredients. Enjoy immediately for the ideal crispy bread, soft egg, and melted cheese texture.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Simplified Approach: As noted by commenters, adapt to standard grilled cheese technique: cook bread until golden, flip, add cheese, crack egg into the hole, and cover.

• Cutout Bread: Toast the saved bread cutout in butter for a crunchy, complementary bite. Pair with jam for a sweet or savory “dessert” side.

• Egg Doneness: For medium doneness (slightly set yolk), extend cooking by 1–2 minutes or flip the egg bread briefly before covering.

• Safety: Always cook eggs thoroughly to prevent salmonella; for high-risk individuals, ensure the yolk is fully set (5–6 minutes).

• Customization: Swap bread for sourdough/rye, use smoked salmon/avocado instead of ham, or experiment with Gruyère/Provolone for richer flavor.

Note: The “Eggs in prison” quip is purely humorous—this sandwich prioritizes safety and simplicity!

Enjoy your Egg-in-a-Nest creation! 🥪🍳