Irresistible Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Fried Eggs: Your New Favorite Breakfast & Brunch Recipe

Prepare to elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these incredibly flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Fried Eggs. This dish brilliantly marries the rich, sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory, crispy texture of pan-fried feta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine a perfectly cooked, runny-yolk egg nestled in a golden, cheesy crust – a true culinary delight that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve, perfect for any morning.

It wasn’t too long ago that the concept of crispy feta fried eggs took the culinary world by storm, going viral across social media platforms like TikTok. Food innovators, such as Grace Elkus, demonstrated a game-changing technique: when feta is pan-fried, it transforms into a sensationally cheesy, crispy crust. This forms the most exquisite, flavorful base for a perfectly cooked, ooey-gooey egg! This simple yet brilliant method quickly became a favorite for countless home cooks seeking an easy, gourmet breakfast or brunch option.

This particular sun-dried tomato and feta fried egg version builds upon that beloved viral sensation, adding a delightful Mediterranean-inspired twist. My primary goal was to infuse more vibrant flavors and an enticing umami depth into the dish. By incorporating finely diced sun-dried tomatoes, with their concentrated sweetness and savory notes, and fragrant fresh herbs, we achieve a more complex and satisfying experience. These additions brighten the palate and add another layer of deliciousness, making each bite an explosion of flavor.

The result is a breakfast or brunch masterpiece, packed with an array of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes, all perfectly balanced by the crispy feta and tender egg. It’s a dish worthy of a special occasion or weekend indulgence, yet incredibly simple to prepare for a quick weekday treat. I personally adore serving these flavorful fried eggs atop a crispy tostada, where the crunch offers a wonderful textural contrast. Alternatively, you can roll them up in a warm tortilla like a savory breakfast taco for a more portable and fun meal. Its versatility means you can enjoy it in many ways, making it a truly adaptable and exciting recipe for any meal of the day.

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Why You’ll Adore This Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Fried Egg Recipe

These sun-dried tomato and feta fried eggs aren’t just a meal; they’re an experience designed to delight your senses. Here’s why they’re destined to become a beloved staple in your breakfast and brunch rotation:

• Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The intense salty-tangy notes of the feta cheese perfectly complement the sweet, umami-rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. When combined with fresh herbs, this creates a symphony of Mediterranean-inspired tastes that are truly unique and satisfying.
• Crispy, Cheesy Perfection: The pan-frying technique transforms crumbled feta into an incredible golden-brown, irresistibly crispy crust. This textural contrast with the soft, tender egg is what makes this dish so addictive and stands out significantly from a regular fried egg.
• Quick & Easy Preparation: Despite their gourmet appearance and rich flavor profile, these sun-dried tomato feta fried eggs come together in under 15 minutes from start to finish. This makes them an ideal choice for busy mornings when you crave something special but are short on time, or for a relaxed, impressive brunch.
• Highly Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer a simple meal or a more elaborate spread, these eggs fit right in. Enjoy them solo, with a side of toasted bread for dipping, perched on a crunchy tostada, tucked into a breakfast taco, or as the star of a larger Mediterranean-themed brunch.
• Infinitely Customizable: The core recipe provides a fantastic base, but it’s incredibly forgiving and easy to adapt. Experiment with different herbs, spices, or even other cheese varieties to tailor the dish perfectly to your personal taste preferences, making it new and exciting every time.

Essential Ingredient Notes for the Perfect Feta Fried Eggs

Achieving the perfect sun-dried tomato and feta fried egg begins with understanding and selecting your ingredients wisely. Here are a few important notes and tips to ensure your dish is nothing short of spectacular, delivering on both flavor and texture:

• Eggs: The foundational element of this dish! Always opt for large, fresh eggs for the best results. The freshness of your egg significantly impacts how the white sets and the yolk’s texture. Free-range or organic eggs often boast richer, more intensely colored yolks and superior flavor, which will shine through in this simple preparation. While the recipe primarily focuses on a sunny-side up style, you can easily adjust cooking times to achieve your preferred yolk doneness, from beautifully runny to a slightly jammy consistency.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: This specific type of sun-dried tomato is paramount for the depth of flavor in this recipe. I strongly advocate for using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as the infused oil itself becomes a valuable ingredient. This aromatic oil is perfect for drizzling over the finished egg, adding an extra layer of rich, umami flavor. When selecting your brand, pay close attention to the sodium content; some brands can be quite salty. When paired with feta, this could lead to an overpowering saltiness. Brands like Bella San Luci and Trader Joe’s often provide excellent lower sodium options. If you only have dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, you can easily reconstitute them by soaking in warm olive oil or hot water until softened, then drain and chop them as needed.
• Feta (Block Form is Crucial!): This is a non-negotiable for achieving that signature crispy feta crust! Absolutely skip the pre-crumbled varieties, which are typically drier and often contain anti-caking agents that hinder them from forming that desirable golden-brown crisp. Always opt for feta sold in blocks, preferably brine-packed. The flavor profile of block feta is significantly superior—it’s creamier, tangier, and offers a more authentic taste. If your feta is brine-packed, a quick rinse under cold water and a gentle pat dry before crumbling can help reduce its inherent saltiness, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor in your finished dish. Crumble it yourself for the ideal texture and consistency.
• Fresh Herbs: The fresh herbs truly bring out the Mediterranean essence of this dish. Thyme, basil, or oregano are all superb choices, each lending its distinct aromatic quality and bright flavor. For an extra vibrant touch, consider a mix of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives. While fresh herbs are always preferred for their superior flavor, dried herbs can be used in a pinch; just remember that their flavor is more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs.
• Salt and Pepper: These are added to taste, but exercise caution with additional salt due to the natural saltiness of both feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s always a good practice to taste your ingredients first. Freshly ground black pepper adds a lovely subtle bite and aromatic finish. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can provide a wonderful kick. You can mix it directly into the feta mixture or sprinkle it on top of the finished egg for an enticing spicy element.

Crafting Your Perfect Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Fried Eggs

Making sun-dried tomato and feta fried eggs is a remarkably straightforward process, but a little attention to detail will ensure they turn out absolutely beautifully. I highly recommend starting by frying just one egg at a time, especially if it’s your first attempt. This allows you to get a precise feel for the technique and the heat of your specific pan. Once you’re comfortable and confident with a single egg, you can easily scale up to make multiple servings.

Step 1: Prepare the Feta Mixture and Heat the Pan. In a small bowl, combine your finely crumbled block feta, finely diced sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs (such as oregano or thyme). Toss them gently with a fork until the feta is well-coated with the herbs and tomato bits. Next, heat an 8-inch non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Using a non-stick pan is absolutely essential here to prevent any sticking and ensure easy release of the crispy feta. Once the pan is warm, add the prepared feta mixture, carefully arranging it into a neat, even circle. Ensure there’s a clear, open hole in the middle where your egg will eventually be placed. This methodical arrangement allows the feta to crisp evenly around the edges, forming a perfect bed for the egg.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Begin Cooking. Allow the feta mixture to cook undisturbed for about 1 minute. During this initial stage, the feta will start to soften, release its oils, and adhere to the pan, beginning to form its signature crispy crust. Then, carefully crack your egg directly into the empty circle in the center of the feta. For greater precision and to avoid any accidental shell fragments, you can crack the egg into a small ramekin or bowl first, then gently slide it into the pan. As the egg white begins to spread, you might need to use a spatula to gently push the feta or any rogue egg whites closer to the middle, ensuring the egg is perfectly encased by the cheese. Continue cooking for approximately 2-3 minutes over medium-low heat, allowing the edges of the egg white to just begin to set and firm up around the golden yolk.

Step 3: Cover and Steam the Egg. After the initial 2-3 minutes of cooking, carefully cover the pan with a lid. This crucial step creates a steaming effect, which helps to cook and set the top of the egg white without requiring you to flip the egg or overcook the bottom. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the egg whites are mostly opaque and set to your desired firmness. If you prefer a runny yolk, it should still feel slightly jiggly at this point. Keep a close eye on it, as cooking times can vary based on your pan and stove’s heat distribution. This method ensures a beautifully even cook on the egg, creating a desirable texture from edge to center.

Step 4: Achieve Crispy Perfection and Serve. Once the egg white has set, remove the lid. At this point, you can optionally increase the heat slightly to medium for about a minute. This final burst of heat helps to ensure the bottom of the feta forms a beautifully golden, incredibly crispy crust without burning. The egg yolk should be cooked exactly to your preference – gloriously runny, perfectly jammy, or fully set. *For a wonderfully runny yolk, the total cooking time from start to finish is typically around 6-7 minutes. Once cooked to perfection, turn off the heat. Using a thin, flexible spatula, gently slide the entire sun-dried tomato and feta fried egg onto a plate. Be very delicate to keep the crispy feta crust fully intact. If you’re preparing tostadas, you can use the same flavorful pan to quickly toast your tortillas, allowing them to soak up any remaining delicious oils and feta bits for an extra layer of amazing flavor.

💡Expert Tips for the Best Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Fried Eggs

To achieve the perfect balance of flavor and prevent your dish from becoming overly salty, it’s wise to select sun-dried tomatoes in oil that contain approximately 30 grams of sodium or less per serving. Additionally, if you’re using brine-packed block feta, give it a quick rinse under cold running water for a few seconds and gently pat it dry before crumbling. This simple yet effective step helps to wash away some of the excess salty brine, allowing the inherent tangy and sweet flavors of the feta and sun-dried tomatoes to truly shine through without being masked by too much saltiness.

Another invaluable tip for success: always crack your egg into a small ramekin or bowl first before adding it to the hot skillet. This practice not only makes it significantly easier to neatly slide the egg into the center of the feta circle, ensuring a clean presentation, but it also allows you to easily spot and remove any accidental shell fragments before they make it into your delicious dish. This small preparatory step guarantees a smoother cooking process and a pristine final result, free from any unwanted surprises.

Creative Substitutions and Exciting Variations

While this recipe for sun-dried tomato and feta fried eggs is absolutely fantastic as written, its true beauty lies in its adaptability. Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it to suit your personal tastes or what you have on hand! Here are some inspiring suggestions to spark your culinary imagination:

1. Parmesan for Feta: If feta cheese isn’t your preferred choice, or if you’re simply looking to explore a different flavor profile, you can achieve a remarkably similar crispy-edged effect using Parmesan cheese. Simply swap out the crumbled feta for an equal amount of freshly grated Parmesan, and watch the edges crisp up beautifully as it fries in the pan. The nutty, umami-rich, and slightly sharper flavor of Parmesan offers a delightful and equally satisfying alternative.
2. Roasted Red Peppers Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a slightly different sweet and smoky note, consider substituting the sun-dried tomatoes with finely chopped jarred roasted red peppers. Make sure they are thoroughly drained, especially if packed in oil, to prevent introducing excess moisture to the pan. This variation offers a milder, sweeter flavor that beautifully complements the savory cheese and egg, adding a different kind of vibrant color and taste.
3. Infuse with Pesto: Elevate the flavor profile even further by infusing your feta with pesto! Add approximately 1 to 2 teaspoons of your favorite vibrant basil pesto directly to the crumbled feta mixture before frying. The rich, herbaceous, and garlicky notes of the pesto will deepen the Mediterranean character of the dish, adding an incredible aromatic dimension. For an intriguing twist, you could also experiment with a savory roasted red pepper pesto.
4. Experiment with Herb Combinations: Don’t feel limited to a single herb! While oregano, basil, and thyme are classic Mediterranean choices and work exceptionally well, feel free to get creative with your herb selection. Consider a fragrant blend of finely chopped fresh parsley, chives, a hint of dill, or even a touch of mint for a refreshing twist. If fresh herbs are not available, dried herbs are a perfectly suitable substitute; just remember to use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, as their flavor is more concentrated. A sprinkle of Za’atar or a generic Mediterranean herb blend can also add fantastic authentic depth.
5. Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, don’t stop at just crushed red pepper flakes! A dash of smoked paprika can introduce a lovely smoky warmth, while a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper will deliver a more intense and fiery kick. Additionally, a touch of garlic powder or onion powder mixed in with the feta can significantly enhance the overall savory notes, creating a more complex and inviting aroma.
6. Add Some Greens: For an extra boost of nutrition and color, finely chopped spinach or kale can be gently mixed with the crumbled feta. Just ensure that any greens are very finely chopped and thoroughly squeezed dry to remove any excess moisture before adding them to prevent the feta from getting soggy and to ensure maximum crispiness.

What to Serve Alongside Your Feta Fried Eggs

These versatile sun-dried tomato and feta fried eggs are delicious enough to be enjoyed entirely on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary sides. Whether you’re aiming for a light, quick bite or a hearty, well-rounded meal, here are some excellent suggestions to complete your breakfast or brunch experience:

• Crispy Toast or Warm Tortillas: A classic and always satisfying pairing! A warm, crusty piece of sourdough, whole-wheat toast, or a soft pita bread is absolutely ideal for soaking up that luscious runny yolk and any savory, cheesy bits. For an extra crunch and a fun, hand-held meal, serve them on crispy corn tostadas – the contrast of textures is simply divine. Warm flour tortillas also make a great base for a breakfast taco experience.
• Fresh & Vibrant Salads: To perfectly balance the richness of the eggs and feta, a light, refreshing salad is a wonderful accompaniment. A simple green salad dressed with a bright lemon-herb vinaigrette, or a more seasonal shaved asparagus salad, would be fantastic. For a truly Mediterranean feel, consider a fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a touch of red onion and chopped mint.
• Fluffy Baked Goods: For a comforting and substantial breakfast, serve these flavorful eggs alongside a warm, buttery biscuit. Alternatively, for a lighter and slightly sweet contrast, these tender zucchini spice muffins offer a delightful balance to the savory main dish.
• Savory Meats: You can never go wrong with the timeless combination of eggs and bacon! Crispy rosemary and fig candied bacon adds a sophisticated sweet and savory crunch that elevates the entire meal. Simple sausage patties, a flavorful lean turkey sausage, or even a slice of grilled halloumi would also be delicious additions.
• Fresh Fruit or Yogurt Parfait: To keep things light, healthy, and add a burst of natural sweetness, a simple side of seasonal fresh fruit (like berries, melon, or sliced oranges) or a refreshing fruity parfait provides a healthy and invigorating contrast to the savory eggs.
• Creamy Avocado Toast: For an extra dose of healthy fats, vibrant color, and creamy texture, serve your sun-dried tomato and feta fried egg perched on top of a perfectly ripe, mashed avocado toast. A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or a dash of chili flakes on the avocado would make it even more irresistible.
• Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: A simple side of roasted cherry tomatoes, grilled bell peppers, tender asparagus spears, or even some garlicky sautéed greens can add a delightful sweet, earthy, or fresh dimension to your plate, complementing the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Feta Fried Eggs

Fried eggs, particularly those with a crispy feta crust, are unequivocally best enjoyed immediately after cooking. This is when the feta is at its most golden and crunchy, and the egg yolk is perfectly set to your liking, offering that irresistible ooey-gooey texture. The magic of the crispy feta is truly at its peak right off the pan.

While fresh is always ideal, if you happen to have any leftovers or are considering meal prepping, fried eggs can be refrigerated. Store them promptly in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption, and they can be kept for up to 1-2 days. However, it’s important to note that the wonderful crispy texture of the feta will inevitably soften significantly in the refrigerator. To serve them later, for food safety, they should be thoroughly reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consumption. Reheating can be done gently in a skillet over low heat to try and regain some crispiness (though it won’t be as good as fresh), or in a microwave for convenience, though the texture of both the egg and the feta may change substantially compared to when freshly cooked. For the most optimal culinary experience, it’s genuinely best to prepare these delicious sun-dried tomato and feta fried eggs fresh each time you crave them.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Fried Eggs

How do I rehydrate sun-dried tomatoes if they’re not oil-packed?

If you only have dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, you’ll definitely need to rehydrate them before incorporating them into this recipe. The simplest and most common way is to fill a small, heatproof bowl with the dry tomatoes and pour hot (but not boiling) water over them until they are completely submerged. Let them stand for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until they have softened and plumped up to a tender consistency. Once rehydrated, drain them thoroughly and gently pat them dry with a paper towel before finely chopping them for use. Alternatively, for an extra boost of flavor, you can replace the hot water with warm olive oil and follow the same soaking process.

What should I look for when buying feta cheese for this crispy fried egg recipe?

When you’re shopping for feta, especially for a recipe like this where a crispy crust is a key component, always prioritize buying feta in blocks rather than pre-crumbled varieties. Block feta has a significantly superior flavor and texture – it’s creamier, tangier, and retains more moisture, which is absolutely essential for forming that beautiful, golden, crispy crust in the pan. In the U.S., you will most likely encounter Greek-style feta, which is often made with cow’s milk. While true traditional Greek feta is typically made with sheep’s milk (and sometimes a blend with goat’s milk) and can be harder to find unless imported, Greek-style feta works wonderfully in most recipes. If your block feta is packed in brine, it’s an excellent practice to rinse it briefly under cold water for a few seconds and pat it thoroughly dry before crumbling. This helps to wash away some of the excess salty brine, allowing the inherent flavors of the feta to shine through more clearly in your dish.

How do I ensure my feta gets perfectly crispy and doesn’t burn?

The secret to achieving a perfectly crispy (but never burnt!) feta crust lies in meticulous heat control and using the right cookware. Always use a good quality non-stick skillet to prevent the feta from adhering to the pan. Begin cooking over medium-low heat. This lower temperature allows the feta to slowly melt, spread evenly, and gradually crisp up around the edges without browning too quickly and becoming bitter. If the heat is too high, the feta will scorch on the outside before the egg has a chance to cook properly, or before the cheese fully crisps. Avoid overcrowding the pan; ensure each egg has ample space to cook evenly and for the feta to spread. A tiny drizzle of the flavorful sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar) directly into the pan before adding the feta, or gently over the feta as it begins to cook, can also help facilitate even crisping and impart additional flavor.

Can I make multiple feta fried eggs at the same time?

Yes, absolutely! While this recipe is initially scaled for a single egg to help you master the technique and perfect your individual serving, it’s entirely possible to prepare more than one at a time. The number of eggs you can cook simultaneously will depend on the size of your skillet. A standard 8-inch non-stick skillet is ideal for one egg, while a larger 10-inch skillet can usually accommodate two eggs comfortably. If you have a spacious 12-inch non-stick skillet, you might even be able to cook three eggs at once. The key is to ensure your pan is large enough to comfortably accommodate the feta circles without them touching or crowding each other, as this can impede even crisping. Remember to adjust your crumbled feta quantities accordingly for each egg and monitor the heat carefully across the entire pan to ensure consistent crispiness and cooking for all the eggs. If preparing for a larger group, it’s often best to work in batches to maintain the highest quality and perfect crispiness for each serving.

More Cheesy & Delicious Breakfast Recipes to Try

Say cheese! If you’ve fallen in love with these irresistible sun-dried tomato and feta fried eggs, you’re in for a treat with these other cheese-infused breakfast and brunch delights. Explore new and exciting ways to incorporate your favorite savory ingredients into your morning meals!

• Blended Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowls
• Parmesan Chili Crisp Fried Eggs
• Cream Cheese Grits with Everything Bagel Seasoning
• Peach, Prosciutto and Burrata Panini

Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear about it! Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card. If you snap a photo of your creation, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter.

📖Recipe

Sun Dried Tomato and Feta Fried Eggs

These Sun Dried Tomato and Feta Fried Eggs offer a perfect blend of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors with a wonderfully crispy texture. From the aromatic depth of sun-dried tomatoes to the irresistible crunch of pan-fried feta, these gourmet fried eggs are an ideal choice for a memorable breakfast or brunch.

*Adapted from “The Original Feta Fried Egg” by Grace Elkus

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time

5 minutes
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Cook Time

7 minutes
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Total Time

12 minutes
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Course
Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine
American, Mediterranean

Servings

1
fried egg

Calories

160
kcal

Equipment

• 8-inch non-stick skillet
• flexible spatula

Ingredients

• 1 ounce (2 heaping tablespoons) feta, crumbled choose whole feta sold in blocks for the best taste. See notes.
• 2-3 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, diced See notes
• ¼-½ teaspoon fresh oregano or thyme can use dried
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon sun-dried tomato oil, for drizzling
• fresh ground pepper or crushed red pepper to taste, optional
• toast or tortillas for serving, optional

Instructions

• In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Toss gently until the feta is well-coated.
  1 ounce (2 heaping tablespoons) feta, crumbled,
  2-3 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, diced,
  ¼-½ teaspoon fresh oregano or thyme
• Heat an 8-inch non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the feta mixture, arranging it into a neat circle and leaving a hole in the center. Cook for 1 minute until it starts to set and crisp. Carefully crack the egg into the center. Use a spatula to gently reshape the egg whites and feta, closing any gaps. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes.
  1 large egg