Some mornings call for something hearty, warm, and just a little bit special. On a chilly Saturday last fall, I remember standing at the stove, baby on my hip and slippers on my feet, craving something more than a bowl of cereal. I reached for a few pantry staples and made these Egg and Cheese Toasts. The way the cheese bubbled at the edges and the egg puffed up like a little soufflé—it felt like magic, with so little effort. These have been on repeat ever since.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Egg and Cheese Toast Recipe
Egg and Cheese Toasts are the kind of breakfast you’ll want to make again and again. They’re cozy, savory, and ready in under 15 minutes. With just one egg, some cheese, and your favorite bread, you get something golden and gooey that tastes way fancier than it is.
These are wonderful as a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even a light dinner with soup or salad. You can serve them on a cozy morning or pull them out when guests stop by unexpectedly. They’re endlessly customizable—swap in your favorite herbs or try different cheeses. And if you love easy breakfast bakes like my Eggs Benedict casserole or Pumpkin French toast casserole, you’ll appreciate the cozy simplicity of this one, too.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Best Bread Types
Go for sturdy slices like sourdough, whole wheat, or rye. These hold up well to the egg and cheese mixture. Avoid any bread with big holes—those will let all that creamy filling slip through.
Cheese Choices
Cheddar melts beautifully and adds a sharp flavor. Pepper jack brings a little kick, while gruyere gives you that nutty, rich depth. Use what you have, but aim for cheese that melts smoothly and pairs well with eggs.
Optional Add-Ins
Finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary brighten things up. A pinch of cayenne adds warmth. You can also spread Dijon mustard under the cheese, add a tomato slice, or even throw on leftover cooked veggies. It’s your toast—make it cozy for you.
How to Make Egg and Cheese Toasts (Oven Method)
Start by lightly toasting your bread—just 1–2 minutes per side under the broiler or in a toaster. This keeps the bottom nice and crisp. Preheat your oven to 400°F. If using a toaster oven, set it to BAKE and use the bottom rack.
Crack an egg into a small bowl and whisk it well. Add your grated cheese, herbs, salt, pepper, and mix it all together. Spoon the mixture onto the toast, spreading it all the way to the crust. That keeps it from bubbling over.
Dust the tops with a pinch of cayenne if you’d like, then bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’re looking for puffed-up egg, melted cheese, and little golden bubbles. Let them rest for a minute or two—hot cheese burns fast!
These are rich, so one slice can be plenty, but you’ll probably want two.
Air Fryer Instructions
Want it even faster? Try the air fryer.
Skip the toasting step. Preheat your air fryer to 340°F. Mix the egg, cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper. Spread that goodness evenly over your bread, then place the slices directly in the basket.
Cook for 8–10 minutes. The edges will be crisp, and the center should look puffed and golden. Be careful pulling them out—hot cheese can really sizzle!
Let them cool for a minute before biting in. They’re perfect for busy mornings.
Creative Variations to Try
Faux-Monsieur Style
Spread a little Dijon mustard on the toast before adding the gruyere-egg mix. Layer with thin veggie slices (like zucchini or roasted red pepper), then bake. Fancy, quick, and so satisfying.
Tomato Basil Toast
Mix mozzarella and parmesan with Italian seasoning. After baking, top with fresh tomato slices, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. A drizzle of balsamic glaze makes it feel like summer on toast.
Honey Apple Walnut Version
Once your cheese toast is baked, top with thin apple slices, a swirl of honey, and toasted walnuts sprinkled with cinnamon. Sweet, savory, and perfect with coffee.
Egg and Cheese Toasts Recipe Card
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Egg and Cheese Toasts
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 2 toasts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Egg and Cheese Toasts are warm, savory, and ready in just 15 minutes. With a bubbly, golden topping and the perfect crisp, they’re ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a light meal.
Ingredients
2 slices bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or rye; avoid large holes)
1 large egg
1/2 cup (2 ounces) grated cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or gruyere)
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Salt and black pepper
Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Instructions
1. Lightly toast or broil the bread for 1–2 minutes per side.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F. For toaster oven, use BAKE setting on the bottom rack.
3. Beat egg in a small bowl. Mix in grated cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread mixture evenly over toast to the crusts.
5. Sprinkle cayenne on top.
6. Bake 10–12 minutes until puffed, bubbly, and golden brown.
Notes
Skip toasting for the air fryer method.
Use Dijon mustard or tomato slices for flavor variations.
Great served with soup or salad.
Adapted from “Baked Cheese on Toast with Wine” in *Vegetarian Cooking For Everyone*.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Breakfast Recipes
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 toast
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1.9g
- Sodium: 343mg
- Fat: 12.9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 12.5g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Protein: 13.9g
- Cholesterol: 123mg
Related Recipes to Try
If you’re in a breakfast mood, try my Berry French toast casserole or the Easy and cozy pumpkin breakfast cookies. They’re just as warm and welcoming.
FAQs
Does cheese go with eggs on toast?
Yes, absolutely. Cheese adds creaminess and depth, while eggs bring protein and richness. Together on toast, they create a satisfying bite that’s simple and comforting.
Why do eggs and cheese go together?
They balance each other. Eggs are soft and mild; cheese adds salt and flavor. When baked, the cheese melts into the eggs, giving you a luscious texture and delicious taste.
How to make cheese on toast with egg?
Beat an egg with grated cheese and seasonings, then spread it over bread and bake. It takes less than 15 minutes and turns everyday ingredients into something special.
How long does cheese on toast take?
About 10–12 minutes in the oven or 8–10 minutes in the air fryer. Just enough time to brew coffee or set the table.
Final Thoughts
Egg and Cheese Toasts are one of those recipes that feel like home. They’re warm, filling, and made with things you probably already have. Serve them with tomato soup, a fresh salad, or just a big mug of coffee. I’d love to see your take—tag me or share a photo on Pinterest so I can cheer you on.
