Air Fryer Egg in Hole: A Crispy, Golden Breakfast Delight 🍳✨

Introduction

The aroma of buttered toast, the soft run of a perfectly cooked egg, and the ease of an air fryer—these are the makings of a breakfast that’s equal parts nostalgic and revolutionary. “Egg in a Hole,” also affectionately known by names like “Toad in the Hole,” “Egg in a Basket,” or “One-Eyed Jack,” is a classic breakfast dish where an egg is fried into the center of a piece of bread. It’s a staple in many households thanks to its simplicity, flavor, and that perfect combination of crisp toast and gooey yolk.

Traditionally cooked in a frying pan, this recipe has seen a delicious upgrade with the advent of air fryer technology. The Air Fryer Egg in a Hole brings you the same heartwarming comfort food in a cleaner, quicker, and healthier way—less grease, faster cook time, and that unbeatable crispy edge only an air fryer can deliver.

In this extensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about creating the perfect Air Fryer Egg in a Hole: from selecting the right type of bread and egg, to choosing the perfect seasoning and customizing it with toppings like cheese, herbs, and even crispy bacon. Whether you’re cooking for one or whipping up brunch for a crowd, this dish is a showstopper.

Let’s dive into the crispy, runny goodness of this air fryer breakfast classic!

Recipe: Air Fryer Egg in a Hole

Ingredients

Basic Version (Per Serving):

• 1 slice of bread (white, whole wheat, sourdough, brioche, or artisan)

• 1 large egg

• 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Cooking spray or parchment liner (optional)

Optional Add-ons:

• Grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan)

• Cooked bacon bits or ham slices

• Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill)

• Avocado slices

• Chili flakes or smoked paprika

• Tomato slices or caramelized onions

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer (any model, ideally with a flat basket or tray)

• Round cutter or drinking glass (for creating the hole)

• Spatula or tongs

• Butter knife or pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Choose your preferred bread—thicker slices hold up better. Using a round cutter or the rim of a small glass, cut a circle in the center of the bread. Keep the cut-out; we’ll toast that too!

Step 3: Butter or Oil the Bread

Butter one or both sides of the bread (or brush with olive oil). This will give your bread a beautiful golden crisp. Do the same for the small circle.

Step 4: Place Bread in the Air Fryer

Place the bread slice flat into the air fryer basket. If your air fryer basket has a grate, you may want to use parchment paper or a silicone liner to avoid the egg dripping through (poke holes for airflow).

Tip: Spray a little cooking oil on the base to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Egg

Carefully crack a fresh egg and pour it into the hole in the center. If needed, gently hold the bread flat so the egg doesn’t spill out.

Pro Tip: If your eggs are large or your hole is small, pour the egg into a ramekin first and slowly spoon the yolk into the hole, followed by a little bit of the white.

Step 6: Season and Customize

Add salt, pepper, and any desired toppings—cheese around the edges, a sprinkle of herbs, or a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.

Step 7: Air Fry

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 6–9 minutes, depending on how runny you want your yolk:

• 6 minutes: runny yolk

• 7–8 minutes: semi-soft

• 9 minutes: fully cooked yolk

Add the cut-out bread circle to toast alongside during the last 3–4 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve with crispy bacon or sausage on the side.

• Healthy: Add sliced avocado and a side salad.

• Indulgent: Melt extra cheese on top or spread garlic butter on the toasted circle.

• Brunch-Ready: Serve with roasted tomatoes, arugula, and a mimosa!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Values vary based on bread type, butter/oil use, and toppings.

Variations of Air Fryer Egg in Hole

1. Cheesy Egg in a Hole

Before placing the egg, sprinkle shredded cheese around the hole. The cheese crisps up beautifully and adds savory depth.

2. Veggie Egg in a Hole

Add chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced tomatoes to the hole alongside the egg for a veggie boost.

3. Bacon-Wrapped Egg in a Hole

Line the edges of the hole with a strip of pre-cooked bacon before adding the egg. Adds saltiness and crunch!

4. Spicy Southwest Style

Season with cumin and chili powder; top with pepper jack cheese and finish with a spoon of salsa after cooking.

5. Sweet-Savory Combo

Use brioche or cinnamon raisin bread with a touch of honey, then sprinkle with herbs and a pinch of sea salt.

Troubleshooting and Tips

Why is the egg white leaking through?

• Your bread may be too thin or the air fryer base is too open. Use thicker bread or a silicone mat.

The yolk is too runny / too firm?

• Adjust your timing by 1–2 minutes. Remember, air fryer models vary slightly in temperature precision.

My bread flew around inside the air fryer!

• Some air fryers blow light ingredients around. Use toothpicks or place the cut-out circle on top of the bread as a weight.

Want multiple servings?

• Prepare them one at a time or use a larger dual-drawer air fryer. Pre-toast several slices then add eggs to each and rotate batches.

Why Use the Air Fryer for Egg in a Hole?

The air fryer creates a unique texture that you can’t quite get in a pan. The bread becomes uniformly crispy, the egg cooks gently from both the top and bottom, and there’s no need for flipping. Plus, it’s less messy than the stovetop—no oil splatters, no need to monitor every second.

Using an air fryer also saves energy compared to a full oven and allows for creative layering of toppings without fear of disturbing the yolk.

Storing and Reheating

• Storing: Not ideal to store for long as the yolk may harden, but you can refrigerate for 1 day.

• Reheating: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes in the air fryer. Avoid the microwave—it makes the bread soggy and yolk rubbery.

Air Fryer Models That Work Well

While any air fryer can do the job, these are top picks for this recipe:

• Ninja Dual Zone: Great for making 2 at once.

• Cosori Pro II: Even heating and wide basket.

• Instant Vortex: Quick preheat and consistent crisp.

How to Make It Kid-Friendly

Kids love this dish! Let them:

• Choose the bread shape (use cookie cutters!).

• Sprinkle their own toppings (cheese, bacon bits).

• Pair it with fruit slices or fun dipping sauces like ketchup or honey mustard.

It’s a great way to introduce kids to breakfast cooking—simple, safe, and creative.

Egg in a Hole: A Brief History

The origins of Egg in a Hole are unclear, but it’s been a staple in American and British kitchens for decades. Its rise in popularity has been fueled by appearances in pop culture—from films like V for Vendetta to TV cooking shows.

Its many names—Gas House Egg, Toad in a Hole (not to be confused with the British sausage dish), Egg in a Nest—highlight its widespread appeal and regional variations.

The air fryer simply brings this time-honored dish into the modern kitchen with flair and convenience.

Conclusion

Egg in a Hole may be a humble dish, but in the air fryer, it transforms into a perfectly crispy, golden, and satisfying breakfast with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re rushing through a busy morning or preparing a leisurely brunch, this air fryer recipe is a game-changer.

With its customizable base, nutritious balance, and simple elegance, the Air Fryer Egg in a Hole is more than just a breakfast option—it’s a new morning tradition. Crispy edges, runny yolk, and endless variation possibilities make it a favorite for all ages.

So pull out that air fryer, crack open some eggs, and make magic happen—one hole at a time. 🍞🥚✨