Ingredients and preparation
Baked avocado eggs are a simple yet satisfying dish that combines creamy avocado with the richness of baked eggs. To prepare this dish, start by gathering the following ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados – halved and pitted
- 4 small eggs – preferably fresh, to ensure the yolks hold their shape
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – optional, for drizzling
- Chopped fresh herbs – such as chives, parsley, or cilantro, for garnish
- Optional toppings – crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or hot sauce
To prepare the avocados, slice them in half lengthwise and remove the pits. If the cavity left by the pit is too small to hold an egg, use a spoon to gently scoop out a bit more flesh, creating enough space for the egg to sit comfortably. Place the avocado halves in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To keep them stable and prevent tipping, you can nestle them in a bed of crumpled foil or use a muffin tin to hold them upright.
Crack each egg into a small bowl, then carefully pour the yolk and some of the white into the avocado cavity. Depending on the size of the avocado and the egg, you may need to discard a bit of the egg white to avoid overflow. Season each filled avocado with a pinch of salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil if desired. At this stage, the avocados are ready to be transferred to the oven for baking.
Baking instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, carefully place the baking dish or sheet with the prepared avocado halves on the center rack. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on how runny or set you prefer your egg yolks. For a soft, slightly runny yolk, check the avocados at the 12-minute mark. If you prefer a firmer yolk, continue baking for up to 15 minutes.
Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so it’s a good idea to monitor the eggs closely during the final minutes of baking. The whites should be opaque and just set, while the yolks should still have a slight jiggle if you’re aiming for a soft center. If you’re adding cheese as a topping, sprinkle it over the eggs during the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking so it melts without overcooking the yolks.
Once baked to your liking, remove the avocados from the oven and let them rest for a minute or two. This allows the eggs to finish setting slightly and makes them easier to handle. Use a spatula to gently lift the avocado halves from the baking dish if needed, and prepare them for serving with your choice of garnishes and accompaniments.
Serving suggestions and variations
Baked avocado eggs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and occasions. For a light and nutritious breakfast, serve them alongside a slice of whole grain toast or a small mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The creamy texture of the avocado pairs beautifully with crisp greens and a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the egg.
For a heartier meal, consider placing the baked avocado halves on a bed of quinoa or brown rice, topped with a spoonful of salsa or a dollop of Greek yogurt. This transforms the dish into a satisfying lunch or dinner option, especially when garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
To add a bit of crunch and contrast, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips over the top just before serving. These toppings not only enhance the texture but also introduce new layers of flavor. If you’re serving a crowd, arrange the avocado halves on a platter and offer a variety of toppings in small bowls—such as crumbled feta, diced red onion, sliced jalapeños, or avocado crema—so guests can customize their own.
For a Mediterranean twist, top the baked eggs with sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of za’atar. Alternatively, give the dish a smoky flair by adding a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder before baking, and serve with grilled sourdough bread for dipping.
Vegetarian and keto-friendly, baked avocado eggs also make an excellent addition to brunch spreads. Pair them with fresh fruit, roasted vegetables, or a side of smoked salmon for a well-rounded and visually appealing plate. Whether served as a simple breakfast or dressed up for entertaining, this dish adapts easily to a wide range of flavors and dietary preferences.