Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet

Name: Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; 4-6 large eggs; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I absolutely love starting my day with a vibrant Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet. The combination of poached eggs nestled in a spicy, flavorful tomato sauce is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. I enjoy the rich blend of spices and the freshness of herbs that elevate this classic dish. It's perfect for a hearty breakfast or a cozy brunch with friends. Plus, it’s a delightful way to sneak in some veggies first thing in the morning. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:21:30.997Z

When I first tried making Shakshuka, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so packed with flavor. The secret lies in the spices—smoked paprika and cumin bring a warm depth, while fresh herbs add a refreshing touch. I remember the first time the eggs perfectly poached—just the right amount of runny yolk to dip my toasted bread into; it felt like heaven!

One essential tip I discovered is to give the tomato sauce a nice simmer before adding the eggs. This deepens the flavors and ensures a rich, bubbling sauce. Not only does it look beautiful, but the combination of textures—creamy eggs with the chunky sauce—is simply heavenly. I can’t recommend this dish enough for breakfast aficionados!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that brightens your morning
Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for meal prep
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and spices

      

The Role of Spices

The spices in this Shakshuka play a crucial role in building the dish's rich flavor profile. Ground cumin provides an earthy note that deepens the overall taste, while smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness and a beautiful hue to the sauce. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a chopped jalapeño along with the garlic. This not only enhances the flavor but also customizes the heat level to your liking, making each batch uniquely yours.

To really bring the spices to life, ensure you cook them briefly until fragrant before adding the tomatoes. This step allows the aromatic oils to release, enriching the sauce. I recommend keeping the heat at medium to avoid burning the spices, which can create an unpleasant bitterness. Properly sautéed spices will add depth, making your Shakshuka instantly gratifying.

Customizing Your Shakshuka

One of the best aspects of Shakshuka is its versatility. You can easily add or swap out vegetables based on what you have at home. Spinach, zucchini, or even kale can integrate beautifully with the sauce. Just be mindful of moisture—if adding high-water content vegetables, allow for extra cooking time to ensure the sauce doesn't become too watery. Cooking them separately then incorporating them into the mixture can help maintain the ideal consistency.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider stirring in some olives or capers before serving. They add a delightful briny kick that contrasts well with the sweet tomatoes. Adjusting the acidity can also enhance the dish; a splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar just before serving can brighten the flavors and enhance the overall experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
4-6 large eggs
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Feel free to add your favorite spices or veggies to customize your skillet!

Instructions

Here's how to create your delicious Shakshuka:

Sauté the Base

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Incorporate the Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Create Wells and Add Eggs

Use a spoon to make small wells in the tomato mixture and gently crack the eggs into each well. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set, about 5-7 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and feta if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or pita.

Enjoy your beautiful skillet of Shakshuka!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat or a splash of vinegar for brightness. This dish can also be easily made with added vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Perfecting Egg Placement

When creating wells for your eggs, ensure they are large enough to hold the eggs without breaking the yolks. Using the back of a spoon helps create a smooth surface at the bottom of each well. A tip I've learned is to crack the eggs into a small bowl before adding them to the wells, which minimizes the risk of shell fragments and allows for easy adjustments if you're using farm-fresh eggs with larger yolks.

If you prefer runny yolks, keep a close eye on the cooking time. Depending on your stove's heat, aim for around 5 minutes after covering the skillet. Look for the egg whites to become set while the yolk remains glossy and slightly wobbly. If you like your eggs firmer, add a minute or two more without letting them overcook.

Serving Suggestions

Shakshuka is traditionally served right in the skillet; this not only simplifies clean-up but also maintains the dish's integrity. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or pita for dipping—this helps soak up the delicious sauce and complements the dish beautifully. Consider toasting the bread with olive oil for added flavor and crunch.

For a more curated brunch experience, serve Shakshuka alongside Greek yogurt, which adds a creamy contrast, and a simple green salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of dukkah or a drizzle of harissa can also elevate the dish, providing an interesting textural and flavor dimension to enjoy with each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Shakshuka ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance. Just reheat and add the eggs when ready to serve.

→ What type of bread is best to serve with Shakshuka?

Crusty bread or pita works wonderfully for dipping into the sauce and runny eggs.

→ Can I substitute the eggs?

For a vegan option, you can use tofu or chickpea flour to create an egg-like texture.

→ Is Shakshuka healthy?

Absolutely! It's packed with vegetables, protein from the eggs, and healthy fats from olive oil.