Eggs Cocotte with Cheese, Ham or Salmon and Chives Recipe
Eggs Cocotte is a delicate and creamy baked egg dish where eggs are gently cooked in heavy cream and topped with melted cheese, optionally layered with ham or smoked salmon. This French classic is perfect for a gourmet breakfast or brunch, offering rich flavors and a luxurious texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 4 Large eggs
- 4 tbsp Heavy cream
- 50 g Grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper (Freshly ground), to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Chives (Chopped, for garnishing)
- Optional: Ham or smoked salmon (Chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the eggs cocotte evenly.
- Prepare Ramekins: Butter the ramekins thoroughly and add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream to each to prevent sticking and add creaminess.
- Add Meat Layer (Optional): If using, place a layer of chopped ham or smoked salmon in the bottom of each ramekin to add flavor and texture.
- Add Eggs and Season: Crack one egg into each ramekin, then season each with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Sprinkle Cheese and Cream: Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the eggs and then top each with another tablespoon of heavy cream to enrich the custard.
- Prepare Water Bath: Place the ramekins into a baking dish and pour hot water into the dish so it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins; this ensures gentle and even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny for perfect texture.
- Cool and Garnish: Carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool for a minute before garnishing with chopped chives.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, creamy texture and flavorful layers.
Notes
- Ensure the water bath level is halfway up the ramekins for proper even cooking.
- Adjust cook time slightly for firmer yolks if preferred.
- Gruyère or cheddar cheeses both work well, choose according to taste.
- Use fresh eggs for best flavor and consistency.
- Chopped herbs like parsley or tarragon can be added as an alternative garnish.
Keywords: Eggs cocotte, baked eggs, brunch recipe, creamy eggs, French breakfast, eggs with cheese, ramekin eggs
