← BlogJune 28, 2026

How to Make the Perfect 3 Ingredient Egg in a Hole

American · Easy · 7 min · 1 servings

vegetarian
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This 3 ingredient egg in a hole recipe transforms simple bread, eggs, and butter into a crispy golden breakfast masterpiece. Each bite delivers a perfectly runny yolk nestled inside toasted bread for a satisfying morning meal.

Why this recipe works

This 3 Ingredient Egg in a Hole recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 7 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 210 calories with 9g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.

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What you will need

This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:

  • 1 slice thick-cut white bread
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Step by step instructions

Step 1: Cut the Hole

Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut a circle from the center of the bread slice. Save the cut-out round for toasting alongside.

Step 2: Butter and Toast

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the bread slice and the small round into the pan and toast for about 1 minute until the bottom is golden.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Flip the bread, crack the egg directly into the hole, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the white is set but the yolk remains slightly runny. Serve immediately.

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Easy substitutions

Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:

  • white bread → sourdough or whole wheat bread
  • unsalted butter → coconut oil or olive oil

Common mistakes to avoid

Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:

  • Using thin sandwich bread that tears when the egg is added
  • Cooking on heat that is too high which burns the bread before the egg white sets

Nutrition facts

Per serving: 210 calories, 9g protein, 18g carbs, 12g fat, 1g fiber.

Ready to cook?

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