If you're a fan of breakfast classics with a twist, then you're in for a treat with this recipe. Egg In A Hole, also known as "Toad in the Hole," is a simple yet impressive dish that will make your mornings extraordinary. With a crispy bagel, flavorful garlic butter, savory bacon, and perfectly cooked eggs, this dish is a delight for your taste buds. In this ultimate guide,  walk you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious breakfast dish. So, let's dive in and create a breakfast masterpiece!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we jump into the cooking process, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need to make Egg In A Hole:

• 4 tbsp butter

• Salt & Pepper

• 1 minced (or smashed) garlic clove

• 1-2 sprigs of rosemary

• 1 bagel

• Bacon strips

• 2 eggs

• Parmesan cheese

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that we have everything we need, let's get started on making this mouthwatering dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This will ensure that your bagel bakes to perfection with a golden crust and a perfectly cooked egg.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and rosemary sprigs to the melted butter. Keep heating until the mixture becomes foamy and aromatic, infusing the butter with the delicious flavors of garlic and rosemary.

Step 3: Prepare the Bagel

Take your bagel and carefully slice it in half. Now, here comes the fun part – we need to create a hole in the center of each bagel half to hold the egg. Using a knife, enlarge the center hole to approximately 2-3 inches in diameter. This will give enough space for the egg to sit comfortably.

Step 4: Dip the Bagel in Garlic Butter Sauce

Once you have enlarged the hole in the bagel, it's time to dip the cut side of each bagel half into the garlic butter sauce. Make sure to coat the entire cut side with the flavorful sauce. This step adds a burst of garlicky goodness to the bagel and enhances its overall taste.

Step 5: Arrange Bacon Strips and Crack the Eggs

Now, it's time to assemble the components of our Egg In A Hole. Take the bagel halves, dipped side down, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush any remaining garlic-infused butter generously onto the tops of the bagel halves, ensuring that they are well-coated. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the butter for an extra layer of flavor.

Next, arrange pre-cooked bacon strips in the center of the bagel holes. These bacon strips should be tender but not crispy, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Crack a medium-sized egg directly into each hole. Don't worry if some of the egg whites spill out – it's all part of the rustic charm of this dish.

Step 6: Season and Bake

Season the eggs with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. These spices will add depth and a touch of spiciness to your Egg In A Hole. Now, it's time to introduce our creation to the oven. Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes. This will ensure that the eggs are cooked to perfection, with a soft yolk and firm whites.

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

After baking the bagels for 10 minutes, switch the oven to the broil setting and continue cooking for an additional two minutes. This will give the bagels a lovely golden brown crust. Keep a close eye on them during the broiling process to prevent burning.

Once your Egg In A Hole is out of the oven, it's time to add the finishing touches. Garnish your baked garlic butter bagels with fresh parsley. This will not only add a pop of color but also bring a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Congratulations – your Egg In A Hole is now ready to be devoured! Serve it immediately while it's still hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy bagel, the savory bacon, the perfectly cooked eggs, and the aromatic garlic butter will make every bite a memorable one. This dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch, and it's sure to impress your family and friends.

Tips and Variations

• Experiment with different types of bagels to add variety to your Egg In A Hole. Try using a plain bagel for a classic taste or a whole wheat bagel for a healthier twist.

• If you're a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the eggs before baking. Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese are all excellent options.

• Add some veggies to your Egg In A Hole for a nutritious boost. Sliced tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers can add freshness and color to the dish.

• For a meatless version, skip the bacon and add some sautéed mushrooms or avocado slices instead.

• Don't be afraid to get creative with toppings and seasonings. Try adding a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Egg In A Hole is a fantastic breakfast dish that effortlessly combines simplicity and deliciousness. With a few basic ingredients and a little bit of creativity, you can transform a regular bagel into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a brunch gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So, go ahead, give it a try, and savor the delightful flavors of Egg In A Hole!