Baked Avocado Egg Boats are a fun and tasty breakfast option! You simply scoop out avocados, crack an egg into each half, and bake them until the egg is perfectly set. Yum!
They’re not just delicious; they’re super healthy too, packed with good fats and protein. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top, but you can get creative with your favorite toppings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Ripe avocados are the star here. Look for ones that yield slightly when you press them gently. If avocados aren’t available, try using large tomatoes or bell peppers as a base for your egg boats.
Eggs: I recommend using small eggs, but you can use medium or large eggs. Just make sure to adjust how much you fill the avocado. For a vegan option, you can try using tofu or a chickpea flour mixture instead.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika adds a nice touch, but ordinary paprika or even a bit of garlic powder works too. Feel free to swap out spices based on what you like best! If you’re spicy, a pinch of cayenne can kick it up a notch.
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring brightness. I like cilantro or parsley. If you don’t have these, consider dried herbs, though fresh is best. For a twist, chives can add a lovely onion flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Egg Consistency?
Getting the right egg consistency can be tricky. Here’s how to do it!
- Use a timer! Bake for 12-15 minutes, checking around the 12-minute mark.
- If you like a runny yolk, aim for 12-13 minutes. For firm yolks, 14-15 minutes should do it.
- Remember, the residual heat will continue to cook the eggs after you take them out.
Don’t forget to let them sit a minute before garnishing, as they’ll be super hot fresh out of the oven!
Baked Avocado Egg Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 4 small eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro, parsley, or dill)
- Optional: diced red bell pepper or chili for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 12-15 minutes of baking time. In total, expect to spend around 25 minutes to enjoy these delicious Baked Avocado Egg Boats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheated Perfection:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden finish for your eggs!
2. Prepare the Avocados:
Take your ripe avocados and slice them in half. Carefully remove the pits, then scoop out a little extra flesh to make room for the egg. This will create the perfect “boat” for your eggs!
3. Set Up for Baking:
Put the avocado halves in a small baking dish or on a baking sheet. If they’re wobbling, you can use crumpled foil or small ramekins to keep them steady while they bake.
4. Crack those Eggs:
Now it’s time to crack an egg into each avocado half! If your eggs are on the larger side, you can gently whisk them first and then pour them in, making sure not to overflow.
5. Seasoning Time:
Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor. The spices will enhance the taste of the eggs and avocado!
6. Baking the Boats:
Pop them into the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the egg whites should be set and the yolks nice and runny (unless you prefer them cooked through!).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, carefully take them out of the oven. Add some fresh herbs on top and sprinkle with optional diced red bell peppers or chili for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Creation!
Serve these warm and enjoy your nutritious Baked Avocado Egg Boats! They make for a great breakfast, brunch, or anytime snack. Yum!
Can I Use Larger Avocados?
Absolutely! If you have larger avocados, feel free to use them. Just make sure to adjust the amount of egg you crack into each half, as they may hold a bit more. You can whisk the egg first to make pouring easier.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Avocado?
If you have leftover avocado flesh after scooping it out, store it in an airtight container with some lemon juice to prevent browning. It’s great for smoothies or salads!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the avocado halves and scoop out the flesh in advance, but it’s best to add the eggs just before baking to ensure they cook perfectly. You can also assemble everything and refrigerate it for a short period before baking, but again, add the eggs last for best results!
How Do I Know When the Eggs Are Done?
For perfectly cooked eggs, aim for 12-15 minutes in the oven. If you like runny yolks, check around the 12-minute mark. The whites should be set, and the yolks will continue to cook slightly after you take them out.