Italian Baked Eggs & Sausage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Baked Eggs & Sausage is a showstopper that combines savory Italian sausage with perfectly baked eggs, all nestled in a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s impressive enough for weekend brunch but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The combination of rich flavors, protein, and minimal prep work makes this a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Pure Comfort

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of eggs and sausage baked in a bubbling tomato sauce. The eggs bake to a perfect jammy consistency while soaking up all the flavors from the aromatic sauce and savory sausage. Served with crusty bread for dipping, this dish embodies the essence of Italian comfort food that warms both body and soul.

What You Need

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Crusty bread, for serving

Time to Cook

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the chopped basil and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Using the back of a spoon, create 6 wells in the sauce. Carefully crack an egg into each well.
8. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the eggs and sauce.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny (or longer if you prefer firmer yolks).
10. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving with crusty bread.

Make It Perfect

Watch the eggs carefully while baking – the key to this dish is getting the eggs cooked to your preferred level of doneness. For runny yolks, 10-12 minutes is usually perfect, but add a few minutes if you prefer them more set. The eggs will continue to cook slightly after removing from the oven, so take that into account.

Mix It Up

Don’t be afraid to add vegetables to this dish. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach work beautifully. You can also swap the Italian sausage for turkey sausage or even plant-based alternatives. For an extra kick of flavor, add a handful of olives or a sprinkle of feta cheese before baking.

Perfect Partners

Serve this dish with a crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil makes a perfect side, balancing the richness of the dish. For a complete Italian-inspired brunch, pair it with a Bellini or Prosecco.

Busy Day Hero

This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need something satisfying without much effort. You can prepare the sauce portion ahead of time and simply reheat it when ready to add the eggs and bake. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

Work Ahead

The tomato and sausage base can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce in an oven-safe skillet, create wells, add the eggs, and bake as directed. This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal planning.

Save Some For Later

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. While the eggs won’t have the same perfect consistency as when freshly made, the flavor will still be delicious.

Everyone’s Happy

This versatile dish pleases a crowd – from picky eaters to gourmet food lovers. Kids can enjoy the familiar flavors of eggs and sausage, while adults appreciate the sophisticated Italian flavors. Serve it family-style and let everyone scoop out their portion.

Good For You Too

This protein-rich dish provides a balanced meal with the eggs delivering essential nutrients like vitamin D and B12. Adding vegetables to the sauce increases the fiber and nutrient content. Using turkey sausage or a leaner option can reduce the fat content while maintaining flavor.

Easy Clean Up

The beauty of this one-pan dish is the minimal cleanup required. Using an oven-safe skillet means you can take it from stovetop to oven without dirtying additional dishes. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation and even less cleanup.

Switch It Up

For a Mediterranean twist, add olives, capers, and feta cheese. Create a Spanish-inspired version by adding chorizo instead of Italian sausage and incorporating smoked paprika. For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.

Simply Perfect

What makes this dish simply perfect is its balance of flavors and textures – the richness of the eggs, the savory sausage, and the tangy tomato sauce create a harmonious combination that satisfies completely. It’s rustic Italian cooking at its finest, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.

Beverage Pairings

Coffee and Brunch Beverages

• Espresso: A bold shot of espresso pairs wonderfully with a brunch serving.
• Mimosa: The citrusy sweetness balances the savory flavors of the dish.

Serving for Different Occasions

Casual Meals

• Pair with a simple salad and bread for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Elegant Brunch

• Serve alongside a cheese platter and fresh fruit for a sophisticated brunch menu.

Family Gatherings

• Double the recipe and bake in a large casserole dish to feed a crowd.

With the right pairings and thoughtful presentation, Italian baked eggs & sausage becomes more than a meal—it’s a memorable dining experience. Let me know when to proceed to the FAQs and con

FAQs

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce and sausage mixture up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, add the eggs, and bake as directed.

How Can I Ensure My Egg Yolks Stay Runny?

For runny yolks, keep a close eye on the baking time. Typically, 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) will yield set whites and soft yolks. Remove the dish promptly and let it rest for a minute before serving.

Can I Use a Non-Tomato Base?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of tomato-based dishes, try a creamy base by substituting the tomato sauce with a mixture of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This creates a rich, indulgent variation.

Is This Dish Freezer-Friendly?

The sausage and tomato sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, do not freeze the dish with eggs, as the texture of baked eggs changes significantly after freezing and reheating.

What Are Some Vegetarian Alternatives?

Replace the sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or chickpeas. You can also use a plant-based sausage for a protein-rich vegetarian option.

How Do I Prevent My Dish from Becoming Watery?

Watery dishes often result from excess liquid in the tomato sauce. To prevent this:

• Simmer the sauce until it thickens.
• Drain canned tomatoes slightly before use.
• Avoid adding too many high-moisture vegetables like zucchini without sautéing them first.

Can I Use Store-Bought Sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce can be a time-saver. Choose a high-quality brand with minimal added sugar and artificial ingredients for the best results. Adjust seasoning as needed to suit your taste.

What Bread Works Best for Dipping?

Crusty breads like ciabatta, sourdough, or a classic Italian loaf are ideal for soaking up the rich tomato sauce and egg yolks. Toasted baguette slices also work well for dipping.

How Can I Make It Spicier?

To increase the spice level, you can:

• Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Include fresh diced chilies or spicy sausage in the recipe.

Can I Scale the Recipe for a Crowd?

Yes! To serve a larger group, simply double or triple the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Be mindful of oven space and adjust cooking times slightly as needed for even baking.

Conclusion

Italian baked eggs & sausage is a timeless dish that combines the best of hearty Italian flavors in a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe. Whether you’re preparing it for a family brunch, a casual dinner, or a special occasion, this dish’s rich tomato sauce, savory sausage, and perfectly baked eggs create an unforgettable culinary experience.

With its versatility and potential for customization, you can adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and flavor preferences. From incorporating fresh vegetables to experimenting with different cheeses and spices, the possibilities are endless.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let this rustic Italian classic bring warmth and joy to your table. Buon appetito!