30-Minute Easy Cheesy Egg Tartlets
Fluffy puff pastry nests filled with cheddar cheese and runny eggs make these tartlets a deliciously simple breakfast or snack. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re high in protein and healthy fats, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or easy meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 sheet puff pastry (9¾” square)
- 4 mini cast iron pans or baking sheets
- 1 Grater (for cheese)
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry 9¾” square, thawed
- 1 cup grated white cheddar cheese
- 4 medium eggs
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven for Perfect Baking: Begin by setting your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). This high heat is essential for achieving a golden, flaky puff pastry base. Make sure the oven rack is positioned in the center to allow even air circulation and consistent browning of your tartlets. Preheating ensures that your pastry begins baking immediately when placed inside.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry Base: Carefully unroll your thawed sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, divide the pastry into four equal squares. Each square will form the foundation of one tartlet, so try to keep them even for uniform cooking.
- Shape and Dock the Pastry Squares: Gently transfer each square into a mini cast iron pan or onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to prick the bottom of each square lightly; this is called “docking” and prevents the pastry from puffing unevenly during baking. Ensure that the holes are evenly spaced across the entire base.
- Initial Bake for a Lightly Golden Crust: Place your prepared pastry squares in the preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes. Watch closely as the edges begin to puff and take on a light golden hue. This initial bake sets the structure of the pastry and creates a small nest, which will hold the cheese and eggs without leaking.
- Layer the First Portion of Cheese: Once the pastry bases are lightly golden, remove them from the oven carefully using oven mitts. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese into the center of each pastry square. This forms a cheesy bed that will cradle the eggs and enhance flavor. Spread the cheese evenly but leave a small border around the edges for the pastry to maintain its crispness.
- Add the Eggs Carefully: Next, crack one medium egg directly into the center of each cheese-lined pastry square. For the perfect presentation, try to keep the yolk intact. The cheese underneath acts as a cushion, preventing the egg from sliding out during baking.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of cheddar over each egg. This top layer melts during baking, creating a luscious, golden finish while locking in the egg’s moisture. Ensure the cheese is distributed evenly so that every bite is rich and creamy.
- Adjust Oven Temperature and Bake Until Set: Reduce the oven temperature to 375˚F (190˚C) and return the tartlets to the oven. Bake for 7–9 minutes, checking carefully. You want the egg whites fully set while the yolks remain slightly runny. The pastry edges should be a deep golden brown, crispy, and flaky. Oven times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Remove the tartlets from the oven and immediately sprinkle each with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This final seasoning enhances the flavor of the eggs and cheddar while balancing the richness of the puff pastry.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil Leaves: Top each warm tartlet with a few fresh basil leaves. The basil adds a burst of color and a subtle herbal aroma that complements the creamy cheese and eggs beautifully. Arrange them carefully for an elegant presentation.
- Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Serve your egg and cheese tartlets while still warm to enjoy the contrast of the flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and runny yolk. These tartlets are perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or even a light snack. Pair with fresh fruit, a simple salad, or a hot cup of coffee for a complete meal.
- Optional Tips for Leftovers or Meal Prep: If making ahead, allow tartlets to cool completely, then cover individually with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350˚F (175˚C) for 5–7 minutes to retain crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky and prevent the eggs from overcooking.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality puff pastry—the flakier, the better.
- Choose fresh, medium-sized eggs to ensure even cooking and proper yolk consistency.
- Grate your cheese fresh; pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Keep an eye on oven times, as puff pastry can brown quickly.
- Tartlets are best served warm but can be prepped ahead and reheated carefully.
- Customize with herbs or spices like thyme, chives, or paprika for added flavor.
