How to Cook a Fried Egg

Not sure How to Cook a Fried Egg? We have one simple (but key!) secret you might not have even thought about! Learn all the tips on how to achieve that perfect crispy edge and flavor when making a fried egg.

There’s nothing better than a perfect fried egg first thing in the morning! You know the kind I mean — that crispy, lacy edge, the slightly runny yolk, and just a sprinkle of salt and pepper on top.

Pair that perfectly cooked fried egg with bacon and toast or enjoy by itself!  Is there a better way to make an egg for enjoying on top of any kind of toast?! I think not!

Oh my goodness, or what about an egg on a burger? Cade said that in Brazil they often slapped a fried egg on a burger and it was delicious! I clearly had to make my own Brazilian Burger and try it out for myself and man, it is GOOD!!

There is something about that crispy edge and a flat bottom that makes it perfect for making an egg sandwich or enjoying on top of avocado toast! Hold on…I need to go make it right now. I am making myself hungry!

But before I run to make another fried egg, tell me: Do you prefer runny yolks or eggs fried hard? I feel like most have a very strong opinion about this. 😂

Ingredients Needed for Making the Best Fried Egg

I’m sure it comes as no surprise to learn that making a perfect fried egg requires few ingredients. The secret lies in how you fry an egg (more on that in a moment!). 

• 2 Large Eggs
• Oil or Butter
• Salt and Pepper

How to Cook a Fried Egg

Learning how to fry an egg is a basic — but handy! — kitchen skill to learn. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s how to make the perfect fried egg: 

1. Heat a nonstick skillet to medium heat and add a little oil to coat the entire bottom of the pan. 
2. Carefully crack the egg and open it very close and slowly onto the pan. 
3. Allow to cook for 5 minutes and turn over just for a second on the other side.
4. Season with salt and pepper and serve!

Tip: Use a non-stick pan when doing this. It will make things 100x easier on you!

How Long to Fry an Egg? 

Your fried egg cook time will vary depending on whether or not you want the yolk runny. Here are the cook times we’ve found to work best: 

For sunny side up eggs: Allow the eggs to cook until completely set on the bottom. Slide a fish spatula under the egg coming in from the yolk side and then gently turn over. Allow to cook for another 30-60 seconds, season, and serve.

For eggs fried hard: Allow the eggs to cook until completely set on the bottom. Slide a fish spatula under the egg coming in from the yolk side and then gently turn over. Allow to cook for another 2 minutes on this side, or until the yolk is completely cooked.  Season and serve.

Are Fried Eggs Healthy?

Yes, eggs are a very rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. They are a great staple to any breakfast and just a different way to cook eggs.

Can Raw Eggs Be Frozen?

Raw eggs can be frozen for up to one year. The eggs should be removed from the shells and the yolk and white should be whipped together before freezing. Or, egg whites and yolks can be separated and frozen individually.

How Long Will Raw Eggs Keep?

Raw, whole eggs in the shell can be kept for 4-5 weeks in the refrigerator.

How Long Can Fried Eggs Be Kept?

Cooked eggs can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

Useful Tools for This Recipe 

Here’s the equipment we like to use when frying eggs:

• Steal of a Deal: T-Fal Nonstick Skillet
• Higher Quality and much longer lasting: 2 piece Le Creuset Nonstick
• Fish Spatula

Tips for Cooking the Best Fried Egg

In addition to knowing the right way to fry an egg, there’s always a special trick. I know there are a lot of little pans out there made specifically for fried eggs, but I actually do not like them at all. They are so tiny you can’t get the spatula in there to lip the egg!

Especially when you are first starting out, try using a large nonstick skillet and still grease it with butter, oil or spray if needed. This will make learning how to cook a fried egg SO much easier! 

Also, please note that we kept this recipe intentionally simple so you could use it as a jumping off point for your own fried egg creations! Feel free to jazz up your fried egg with other spices and seasonings, hot sauce, you name it. 

More Savory Breakfast Recipes: 

• How to Make the Best Scrambled Eggs
• How to Make Hardboiled Eggs
• Maple Mustard Croissant Breakfast Sandwich
• Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
• Cheesy Salsa Verde Sausage Breakfast Enchiladas
• Easy 3 Ingredient Chorizo Potatoes
• Cheesy Southern Grits 

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