Start your day with a fun and easy breakfast that’s both crispy and delicious! The Air Fryer Waffle Egg in a Hole is the perfect combination of golden, fluffy waffles and a perfectly cooked egg in the center. It’s a simple, quick recipe that takes minimal effort but delivers big flavor, making it a great choice for busy mornings or weekend brunches. Whether you’re a waffle lover or just looking for something new to try, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Air Fryer Waffle Egg in a Hole because it’s the perfect mix of convenience, flavor, and texture. The air fryer ensures your waffle comes out crispy on the outside while keeping it soft and fluffy on the inside. The egg adds a rich, savory touch that takes this breakfast to the next level. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and makes a fun twist on traditional breakfast dishes. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying, protein-packed meal without spending much time in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 waffles (store-bought or homemade)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: hot sauce, cheese, herbs, or avocado
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This will ensure the waffles cook evenly and become crispy.
- Prepare the Waffles: If using store-bought waffles, place them on a clean surface. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to create a hole in the center of each waffle. If you’re making homemade waffles, simply follow your waffle recipe, then use the same technique to cut out the center once they’re cooked.
- Butter the Waffles: Lightly spread butter on both sides of the waffles. This adds a rich flavor and helps them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Place Waffles in the Air Fryer: Carefully place the prepared waffles in the air fryer basket. Ensure there is some space between them for air circulation.
- Add the Eggs: Gently crack an egg into the center of each waffle hole. Be careful not to break the yolk. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Air Fry the Waffles: Cook the waffles in the air fryer at 370°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Check at the 5-minute mark to see if the egg is cooked to your liking. The egg white should be set, and the yolk should remain slightly runny or cooked through, depending on your preference.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the waffles are done, remove them from the air fryer. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as hot sauce, cheese, fresh herbs, or avocado slices.
This Air Fryer Waffle Egg in a Hole is simple, quick, and packed with flavor—perfect for any breakfast or brunch!
Tips for Best Results
Choose the Right Waffles: For the best texture, opt for thick, hearty waffles. If using store-bought waffles, go for a variety that crisps up well in the air fryer. Homemade waffles can be a great choice as they tend to be fluffier and more customizable in taste.
Use the Right Air Fryer Temperature: Preheating the air fryer to 370°F (190°C) ensures your waffles cook evenly and become crispy without burning. Be sure not to exceed this temperature to avoid overcooking the eggs.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give each waffle plenty of space in the air fryer to allow hot air to circulate evenly. If you’re making more than one, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
Monitor the Egg’s Cook Time: Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the egg and your preferred yolk consistency. For a runny yolk, 5-6 minutes should be enough. For a fully cooked egg, aim for 7-8 minutes. You can always check by gently tapping the waffle to see if the egg white is fully set.
Butter for Extra Crispiness: A light coating of butter on both sides of the waffle helps achieve that golden, crispy texture. You can also use cooking spray if you want a lighter option, but butter will give the waffles a richer flavor.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with seasonings! You can sprinkle herbs like chives, parsley, or even a little garlic powder on top for extra flavor. Add cheese inside the hole before cracking the egg for a melty surprise!
Serve Immediately: Air-fried waffles are best enjoyed fresh, while they’re still crispy. If you let them sit too long, they may lose some of that perfect crunch. Serve them right after cooking for the best taste and texture!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: One of the most common mistakes is overcrowding the air fryer basket. If you place too many waffles at once, the hot air won’t circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking. Always make sure there’s enough space between the waffles for air to flow freely, ensuring they cook evenly and crisp up well.
- Using Thin or Flimsy Waffles: Thin, flimsy waffles may not hold up well when you add an egg in the center. If they’re too delicate, they might fall apart or become soggy. Stick with thicker, heartier waffles that can handle the egg and hold their structure during cooking.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Skipping the preheating step can lead to uneven cooking. Preheating the air fryer ensures the waffles cook properly from the start and helps them crisp up nicely. Always allow the air fryer to reach the desired temperature before adding the waffles.
- Cracking the Egg Roughly: Cracking the egg too hard or carelessly can cause the yolk to break. When cracking the egg into the waffle, be gentle to keep the yolk intact, especially if you prefer a runny center. A gentle crack and careful placement of the egg will help keep it in the hole without spilling over.
- Not Adjusting Cook Time for Desired Egg Doneness: Every air fryer is different, and cooking times can vary. If you like your egg yolk runny, be sure to check the waffles after 5 minutes. For a more well-cooked egg, leave them for a little longer. Overcooking can result in dry eggs, so it’s best to keep a close eye on them.
- Skipping Seasoning: Waffles and eggs can be quite plain without seasoning. Don’t forget to season both the waffles and the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Adding extra toppings like herbs, hot sauce, or cheese can also elevate the flavor.
- Serving After Sitting Too Long: Air-fried waffles are best served immediately. If they sit for too long, they can lose their crispy texture, becoming soggy. For the best results, enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer for that perfect crunch!
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Elevate your Air Fryer Waffle Egg in a Hole by adding a variety of toppings. Try adding a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat, or sprinkle some grated cheese on top for a creamy, melty finish. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for an aromatic touch. For a savory twist, try adding crispy bacon crumbles or sautéed spinach on top.
- Avocado Slices: Add some creamy avocado slices for a boost of healthy fats and extra flavor. The smooth texture of the avocado pairs perfectly with the crispy waffle and the rich egg. You can also mash the avocado and spread it on the waffle before adding the egg for a delicious twist.
- Fresh Fruit: For a refreshing and sweet contrast, serve the waffle with a side of fresh fruit like berries, banana slices, or a few orange wedges. The sweetness of the fruit balances out the savory flavors of the waffle and egg, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: If you prefer a touch of sweetness, drizzle some maple syrup or honey over the waffle. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory egg and crispy waffle, creating a delicious balance of flavors.
- Side Salad: For a more complete meal, serve your waffle with a light side salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can add some freshness and crunch to the meal, making it perfect for brunch or a light lunch.
- Pair with a Smoothie or Coffee: To make the meal even more satisfying, pair it with a refreshing smoothie or a cup of coffee. A smoothie made with fruits and yogurt or a creamy latte can complement the richness of the waffle and egg, rounding out the meal nicely.
These serving suggestions will not only enhance the flavors but also help create a more balanced and enjoyable meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the Air Fryer Waffle Egg in a Hole in an airtight container. Allow the waffles to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation from making them soggy. The waffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to store the waffles and eggs separately if possible, as the egg may become overcooked when reheated.
Freezing: If you want to save leftovers for a longer period, freezing is an option. To freeze, let the waffles cool completely, then wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The waffles can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, you can reheat them directly from frozen.
Reheating in the Air Fryer: The air fryer is the best method for reheating, as it will restore the crispiness of the waffle. To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffle in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the waffle is hot and crispy. If you stored the egg separately, you can reheat it in the air fryer for about 2 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Be careful not to overheat the egg, as it may become rubbery.
Reheating in the Oven: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can reheat the waffles in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the waffles on a baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy. Reheat the egg separately in a microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until hot.
Avoid Microwaving the Waffles: While you can microwave the waffles, they will become soft and lose their crispiness. It’s best to avoid this method if you want to preserve the texture of the waffle.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Waffle Variations:
- Gluten-Free Waffles: For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free waffles. Many stores offer pre-made gluten-free waffles, or you can make your own using a gluten-free waffle mix.
- Sweet Waffles: If you’re craving something sweet, use cinnamon or vanilla-flavored waffles. They pair beautifully with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, offering a delicious contrast with the savory egg.
- Savory Waffles: For a savory twist, consider making waffles with added ingredients like cheese, herbs, or even cooked bacon bits in the batter. This adds extra flavor right into the waffle itself!
2. Egg Variations:
- Scrambled Eggs: If you’re not a fan of a runny yolk, try scrambling the eggs before adding them to the waffle hole. Simply beat the eggs, pour them into the hole, and cook them in the air fryer until set.
- Poached Eggs: For a more delicate texture, try using a poached egg instead of a fried one. You can poach the egg separately and then place it on top of the waffle.
- Egg Whites: If you want a lighter option, you can use just egg whites. They cook faster and are lower in calories and fat.
3. Toppings and Add-Ins:
- Cheese: Add a slice of cheese inside the waffle hole before cracking the egg for a cheesy, melty surprise. Cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese work well.
- Vegetables: Mix in some vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the egg before adding it to the waffle for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Avocado or Guacamole: Top your waffle with mashed avocado or guacamole for added creaminess and healthy fats.
4. Meat Additions:
- Bacon or Sausage: Add crispy bacon strips or cooked sausage on top of the waffle for a heartier breakfast.
- Ham or Turkey: Thin slices of ham or turkey can be placed inside the waffle before adding the egg for a protein-packed version.
Related Recipe
Crispy Waffle Recipe: Perfect Crunch Every Time – A great resource for making homemade waffles that work perfectly for this recipe.
Mini Pancakes Recipe: Fluffy Bites – Another fun and delicious breakfast option for those who love morning treats.
Avocado Toast Seasoning: Elevate Your Breakfast Flavor – A great way to enhance the flavors of your Air Fryer Waffle Egg in a Hole.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you put a raw egg in the shell in an air fryer? Yes, you can cook a raw egg in its shell in the air fryer. It’s similar to boiling eggs, but with the air fryer, the cooking time is a bit faster. To cook hard-boiled eggs, preheat the air fryer to 270°F (130°C) and cook for about 17-18 minutes. For soft-boiled eggs, reduce the time to 10-12 minutes. Once done, place the eggs in an ice bath for a few minutes to cool them down and stop the cooking process.
2. Can you cook an egg in a Dash waffle maker? Yes, you can cook an egg in a Dash waffle maker. To do this, spray the waffle plates with non-stick cooking spray, then crack the egg into the center of the waffle maker. Close the lid and cook for about 3-5 minutes, depending on how well-cooked you want the egg. The heat from the waffle maker will cook the egg evenly, and it’s a fun and quick way to make eggs in a unique shape.
3. Can you crack an egg in an air fryer? Yes, you can crack an egg directly into the air fryer. It’s a popular method for making eggs in a variety of ways, including sunny side up or poached. You can place the egg in a small baking dish or on a piece of parchment paper if you want to keep it contained. For fried eggs, cook at 370°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until the egg white is set and the yolk reaches your desired consistency. Be sure to monitor the egg to avoid overcooking the yolk.