Fried Egg Recipe (With Video and Step-by-Step)

Cook Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

5 mins

Servings:

1

Perfect the fried egg with Martha’s simple technique and tips. Start by choosing the right size pan for the number of eggs you’re cooking—for a single egg, that’s a 6- or 8-inch skillet—and make sure it’s nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron. Butter lends a rich taste, especially when the milk solids turn brown and nutty; it also contains emulsifiers that better prevent sticking. Cover the skillet to trap steam, which will ensure a more even cook. And have a warm plate and your preferred accompaniments like bacon, toast, or sausage ready—a cold fried egg is rarely desirable, even if perfectly cooked.

Plate with fried egg bacon and buttered toast next to a fork and napkin — Jacob Fox

Tips for Perfect Fried Eggs

Use butter: For both flavor and function, fat is an essential component when frying eggs. Olive oil works well and will produce extra-crispy edges, but butter is Martha's fat of choice. Not only is it rich in flavor, it contains natural emulsifiers that prevent the eggs from sticking as they cook.

Add a lid: Covering the skillet helps to cook the egg white—which is runnier and more loose than the yolk—by trapping steam.

Don't forget to season: Eggs are often considered a perfect food, but they still need seasoning. Just before removing yours from the pan, sprinkle it with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper.

The Right Pan for the Job

Whether you're frying eggs, making a scramble, or whipping up an omelet, it's hard to beat the ease of a nonstick skillet. It's our pick for this recipe, though you can use a cast-iron or carbon-steel skillet provided it's been well seasoned. And use a pan that's just large enough to fit the number of eggs you're using. A six- to eight-inch skillet is great for two eggs; if you're cooking four eggs at a time, reach for a 10- or 12-inch pan.

Never use a metal spatula on a nonstick pan or you'll risk damaging the coating. Opt for a thin, flexible silicone spatula instead.

Directions

Plate with toast and bacon egg butter salt and pepper in bowls nearby — Jacob Fox

Heat skillet, melt butter, and cook egg:

Heat an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat; add butter. When butter begins to sizzle, crack an egg into pan. Cover, and cook until white is light golden underneath, 2 to 3 minutes.

Jacob Fox
Flip egg for over easy:

For "over easy," flip egg with spatula and cook for 30 seconds. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately with bacon and toast, if desired.

Jacob Fox

Jacob Fox

Jacob Fox

How to Serve Fried Eggs Beyond Breakfast

Fried eggs go way beyond breakfast. Use them to top burgers or bulk up bowls of fried rice or stir-fried noodles. They can turn a serving of sautéed greens or buttery boiled asparagus into a light meal, but are just as delicious slid onto garlicky tomato toasts or atop savory lentils or creamy grits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you flip an over-easy egg without breaking the yolk?

To flip an over-easy egg without breaking the yolk, it's most important to use the right tool—a thin, flexible spatula. It will slide under the egg more smoothly than a very stiff spatula. Use a gentle motion when flipping, and try to do so with confidence. And remember that if the yolk breaks, it will still be delicious—and there's always next time.
How long do eggs stay fresh in the refrigerator?

Eggs will typically stay fresh for 4 to 5 weeks past the pack date on the carton (not to be confused with a best-by date), or 2 to 3 weeks after purchase. If you're unsure when you bought yours, you can try the egg-float test: Fill a tall container with water and gently set an egg inside; it's quite fresh if it lays on its side, but if it stands straight up you'll want to use it soon. And if it floats? Throw it out.
What makes eggs such a healthy food?

Eggs are considered a healthy food because they contain protein, beneficial fats, vitamins, and minerals. They're also low in calories, despite being so nutrient dense. Incorporating eggs into meals is an easy way to feel fuller for longer—and work in essential nutrients along the way.