These Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that requires only three ingredients. The rich, savory marinara sauce pairs beautifully with eggs and parmesan, creating a flavorful dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick vegetarian dinner, a savory breakfast, or just a simple meal, this recipe is perfect for busy days. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s one of those dishes that prove simple ingredients can make the best meals!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 cup marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 4 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- Toasted baguette slices for serving (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Pour ½ cup of marinara sauce into each of two 6-inch cast iron skillets or two 10-ounce ramekins.
- Top the marinara sauce with 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese in each skillet.
- Gently crack two eggs into each skillet over the marinara sauce.
- Season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the skillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Nutrients
- Calories: 284
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 383mg
- Sodium: 1177mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
These Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce are a deliciously simple and satisfying meal that combines the comforting flavors of marinara with the richness of eggs and cheese. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
The Perfect Balance of Ingredients
What makes Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce so special is its ability to turn simple ingredients into a delicious, satisfying meal. The marinara sauce provides a rich, savory base with a deep tomato flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs. While the sauce itself is a star, it’s the eggs that bring a layer of richness and creaminess to the dish. The egg yolks remain soft and runny, adding a velvety texture when mixed with the marinara. The addition of parmesan cheese brings a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients, creating a well-balanced dish that is both hearty and comforting.
A Quick and Easy Meal
One of the main appeals of this recipe is its speed and simplicity. The entire dish can be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic mornings when you need a quick breakfast or a busy evening when you don’t have time for elaborate meal prep. The minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation ensure that anyone—regardless of cooking experience—can create a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or someone looking for an easy meal after a long day, this dish is both accessible and rewarding to make.
A Versatile Dish for Any Time of Day
While this recipe is quick enough for breakfast, it’s also versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. For a savory breakfast or brunch, serve these baked eggs alongside a few slices of toasted baguette for dipping. The rich tomato sauce and egg yolks create the perfect dip for crusty bread, making the meal even more enjoyable. As a lunch or dinner option, this dish can be paired with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Its versatility also makes it great for meal prep—prepare the eggs in individual skillets or ramekins, and you can easily store leftovers for later use. Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce offers the flexibility to suit your dietary preferences, time constraints, and even your mood!
The Benefits of Eggs
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, making them the perfect addition to this dish. A single egg provides about 6 grams of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein also helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer, making this meal satisfying without being overly heavy. Eggs are also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and riboflavin, which support energy production, metabolism, and overall health. The combination of eggs and marinara sauce creates a filling, nutrient-dense meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Marinara Sauce: A Savory Base with Endless Possibilities
Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, often including basil and oregano. This simple yet flavorful sauce is the perfect foundation for the eggs, as it imparts a rich and tangy tomato flavor that enhances the overall dish. While store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly in this recipe, homemade marinara can elevate the flavor even further. By adding your favorite herbs and spices, you can customize the sauce to suit your taste. For example, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. Marinara sauce not only complements the eggs but also provides a serving of vegetables, making it a healthier choice for any meal.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding Depth of Flavor
Parmesan cheese plays a crucial role in this dish by adding depth of flavor and a touch of creaminess. Parmesan’s salty, nutty taste enhances the marinara sauce, creating a more complex flavor profile. The addition of cheese also contributes to the overall richness of the dish, particularly when combined with the eggs. The slight melt of the cheese as it bakes into the sauce creates an irresistible texture that pairs wonderfully with the eggs. Parmesan also provides a source of calcium, which is essential for bone health, making this dish not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate important nutrients into your diet.
Fresh Herbs: An Optional but Flavorful Touch
While the dish is already flavorful on its own, the addition of fresh basil or parsley can elevate it even further. Fresh herbs bring a burst of color, fragrance, and flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the eggs and cheese. Basil, in particular, pairs beautifully with marinara sauce, as its sweet, slightly peppery flavor complements the tangy tomato base. Parsley, with its bright and slightly grassy taste, also offers a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. Fresh herbs are an easy and affordable way to add a final layer of flavor and a touch of freshness to the dish, making it visually appealing and even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions: Pairing with Bread and More
To make this dish even more satisfying, serve it with a side of toasted baguette slices. The crunchy bread provides the perfect vessel for dipping into the marinara sauce and runny egg yolk, making each bite even more delicious. The bread also helps soak up the flavorful sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a drop of the rich, savory goodness. If you’re looking for a lighter side, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance the richness of the eggs and sauce, providing a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or sautéed greens like spinach or kale can be served alongside the eggs, creating a well-rounded plate that covers all your nutritional needs.
Why Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce is a Healthy Option
In addition to being quick and delicious, Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce is also a healthy choice. The dish is high in protein thanks to the eggs and parmesan, while the marinara sauce provides a serving of vegetables and antioxidants. Eggs are a great source of essential nutrients, and the use of marinara sauce instead of heavier, cream-based sauces helps keep the dish light without sacrificing flavor. The dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets. Additionally, by using fresh herbs and quality ingredients, you can control the sodium content and avoid the preservatives found in many processed foods, making this dish a wholesome option for anyone looking to eat healthily.
Conclusion
Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce is a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. With just a few simple ingredients—eggs, marinara sauce, and parmesan cheese—you can create a flavorful and nutrient-dense dish that is perfect for busy mornings, light dinners, or even a savory brunch. The richness of the eggs combined with the tangy marinara sauce and the creaminess of parmesan creates a delicious balance of flavors, while fresh herbs and toasted baguette slices add the perfect finishing touches. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian meal or simply want a delicious and nutritious dish, Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce is sure to impress. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a quick yet delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.