Southwestern Baked Eggs with Spicy Salsa and Cheese
Start your morning right with these Southwestern Baked Eggs, a delightful twist on traditional eggs. This dish features perfectly baked eggs nestled in a flavorful and spicy salsa, ideal for those who enjoy a hint of heat in their breakfast. Enhanced with sautéed mushrooms and topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro, this recipe is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a loved one, these baked eggs will soon become a breakfast staple. Serve with toasted bread for a satisfying one-dish meal—perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
salsa
1/2 cup (Your choice of hotness, plus a tad more if desired)
eggs
4 (Large, cracked into the salsa nests)
salt
to taste (For seasoning eggs)
black pepper
to taste (For seasoning eggs)
green onion
1/4 cup (Chopped, optional for garnish)
shredded cheese
1/4 cup (For topping after baking)
cilantro
1 tablespoon (Chopped, for garnish)
vegetable oil
as needed (For greasing the skillet)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Select a medium-sized nonstick skillet with an oven-safe handle and lightly coat it with vegetable oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
3
Pour the salsa into the skillet, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
4
If you desire an extra kick, consider adding finely chopped sautéed mushrooms to the salsa before the next step.
5
Using a spoon, gently make 4 evenly spaced indentations in the salsa, creating nests for the eggs.
6
Crack one egg into each of the nests, ensuring the yolk remains intact.
7
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the eggs, and season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
8
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks remain runny.
9
In the final minute of baking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the eggs and return to the oven until the cheese melts.
10
Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Southwestern Baked Eggs with Spicy Salsa and Cheese?
It is a flavorful breakfast dish featuring eggs baked directly in a bed of spicy salsa, topped with melted cheese, green onions, and fresh cilantro.
What temperature should the oven be set to for these baked eggs?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C) for optimal baking results.
How many eggs does this recipe require?
This recipe calls for 4 large eggs.
Can I use any type of skillet for this recipe?
You should use a medium-sized nonstick skillet with an oven-safe handle to ensure it can withstand the 400°F heat.
What kind of salsa is recommended?
You can use any salsa of your choice; select the heat level (mild, medium, or hot) based on your personal preference.
How long do the eggs need to bake in the oven?
The eggs typically bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
When should I add the cheese to the dish?
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the eggs in the final minute of baking so it melts perfectly.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add finely chopped sautéed mushrooms to the salsa for extra texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan?
Lightly coat the skillet with vegetable oil or nonstick cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
What is the best way to create nests for the eggs in the salsa?
Use a spoon to gently make 4 evenly spaced indentations in the salsa layer before cracking the eggs into them.
What garnishes are used in this Southwestern dish?
The dish is garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
What should I serve with Southwestern Baked Eggs?
These eggs are best served immediately with toasted bread to dip into the runny yolks and salsa.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Absolutely, it is an ideal dish for a leisurely brunch or a quick, satisfying breakfast.
Can I adjust the spiciness of this meal?
Yes, you can control the heat by choosing a milder salsa or omitting any extra spicy toppings.
How do I know when the egg whites are fully set?
The whites will turn from translucent to opaque and firm, which usually happens around the 15-minute mark.
What type of cheese works best for melting?
Any shredded cheese like Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or a Mexican blend works beautifully.
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, olive oil or any neutral cooking oil can be used to grease the skillet.
How much salsa do I need for the base?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of salsa, though you can add a bit more if you prefer a saucier base.
Are the green onions cooked or raw?
The green onions are sprinkled over the eggs before baking, so they soften slightly in the oven.
Can this recipe be doubled for more people?
Yes, you can use a larger skillet and double the ingredients, or use two separate skillets.
Is salt and pepper necessary?
Seasoning with salt and black pepper is recommended to enhance the flavor of the eggs.
Can I use dried cilantro if fresh isn't available?
While fresh cilantro provides the best flavor, you can use a small amount of dried cilantro if necessary.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
With 4 eggs, it generally serves 2 to 4 people depending on their appetite.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, because it is cooked and can be served directly from the skillet, it is considered a one-dish meal.
Can I make this if I don't have an oven-safe skillet?
If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the salsa and eggs to a greased baking dish instead.
What happens if I bake the eggs for more than 15 minutes?
The yolks will likely become solid and lose their runniness if baked for too long.
Can I use different types of eggs?
This recipe is designed for large chicken eggs, but you can use other types, noting that baking times may vary.
Is there a specific way to crack the eggs?
Crack them carefully into the salsa nests to ensure the yolk stays intact for a better presentation.
Does this recipe contain any meat?
As written, this recipe is vegetarian, but you can add cooked chorizo or bacon if desired.
Why are these called 'Southwestern' eggs?
They use classic Southwestern ingredients like salsa, cilantro, and green onions to create a regional flavor profile.