Scotch Eggs Recipe

Crispy Homemade Scotch Eggs Recipe: Golden Breakfast Delight

Crispy, golden-brown breading surrounds a perfectly cooked scotch eggs recipe that promises pure culinary delight.

These classic British delicacies pack incredible flavor into every single bite.

Hearty and satisfying, they combine soft-boiled eggs with seasoned sausage meat for an irresistible combination.

Originating from traditional pub fare, these portable treats work wonderfully as appetizers or protein-packed snacks.

Each scotch egg delivers a beautiful contrast between the crunchy exterior and tender inner layers.

The preparation might seem complex, but with a few simple techniques, you can master this beloved dish.

Prepare to impress your dining companions with this delectable British classic that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Why You’ll Enjoy Every Bite of Scotch Eggs

  • Break down this recipe into manageable steps that even novice cooks can master, with clear instructions guiding you through each stage of creating these delicious British classics.
  • Experiment with different types of sausage, herbs, or spices to make these Scotch eggs uniquely yours, adding a personal touch to this traditional dish.
  • Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or game day snacks, these Scotch eggs will impress guests with their crispy exterior and rich, savory filling that satisfies every time.
  • Prepare these in advance and store in the refrigerator, making them an excellent option for quick protein-packed meals or grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.

What Goes Into Traditional Scotch Eggs

Main Protein:
  • Eggs: Large, fresh eggs that create the core of this classic British dish.
  • Breakfast Sausage: Flavorful meat mixture that will wrap around the soft-boiled eggs.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Chives, Parsley: Fresh herbs that add brightness and depth to the sausage mixture.
  • English Mustard: Tangy condiment that enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Nutmeg: Essential seasonings that provide balanced and complex taste.
Coating and Frying Ingredients:
  • Flour, Egg: Used for creating a protective dredging layer around the sausage-wrapped eggs.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Crispy coating that provides a golden and crunchy exterior.
  • Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil used for deep-frying the Scotch eggs to achieve a perfect golden-brown color.

Equipment Essentials for Making Scotch Eggs Easily

  • Medium Saucepan: Perfect for boiling eggs with enough water to cover them.
  • Slotted Spoon or Spider: Essential for safely lowering and removing eggs from hot oil.
  • Kitchen Thermometer: Crucial for checking oil and sausage temperatures accurately.
  • Medium Bowl: Needed for ice water bath and mixing sausage ingredients.
  • Small Bowls (3): Required for setting up dredging stations with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
  • Parchment Paper: Helps wrap sausage around eggs smoothly.
  • Large Saucepan: Used for deep-frying Scotch eggs.
  • Paper Towels: For drying eggs and draining fried Scotch eggs.
  • Cutting Board: For chopping herbs.
  • Sharp Knife: To finely chop herbs.
  • Whisk: For beating eggs and mixing dredging ingredients.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Classic Scotch Eggs

Step 1: Soft-Boil The Eggs

Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water by an inch.

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Cook for 4 minutes for jammy yolks or 7 minutes for well-done yolks.

Prepare an ice water bath simultaneously.

Step 2: Chill The Eggs

Transfer boiled eggs to the ice water bath immediately.

Allow them to cool completely for 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Herb Mixture

Finely chop fresh herbs:
  • Chives
  • Parsley

Step 4: Create Sausage Blend

Combine in a mixing bowl:
  • Chopped chives
  • Chopped parsley
  • Breakfast sausage
  • English mustard
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Freshly grated nutmeg

Mix thoroughly and divide into four equal portions.

Step 5: Set Up Coating Stations

Prepare three separate bowls:
  • Flour with salt
  • Whisked egg
  • Panko breadcrumbs with salt

Step 6: Wrap Eggs In Sausage

Peel cooled eggs and pat dry.

Use parchment paper to help wrap sausage around each egg, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 7: Bread The Wrapped Eggs

Coat each sausage-wrapped egg in:
  • Flour
  • Beaten egg
  • Breadcrumb mixture

Step 8: Heat Cooking Oil

Warm vegetable oil in a large saucepan to 325°F using a kitchen thermometer.

Step 9: Fry Scotch Eggs

Carefully lower eggs into hot oil.

Fry until sausage reaches 145°F internal temperature and exterior turns golden brown, about 4 to 6 minutes.

Step 10: Finish And Serve

Transfer fried eggs to a paper towel-lined plate.

Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for the Best Scotch Eggs Experience

  • Use room temperature eggs and a timer to achieve the ideal jammy or well-done yolk consistency without overcooking.
  • Use parchment paper to help wrap sausage evenly around eggs, ensuring no gaps that could cause uneven cooking or oil seepage.
  • Maintain consistent 325F oil temperature for crispy, golden-brown exterior without burning the breadcrumb coating.
  • Select high-quality breakfast sausage with good fat content for maximum flavor and juicy texture in your Scotch eggs.
  • Set up dredging bowls in advance to create a smooth, organized coating process for each Scotch egg.

New Twists and Tasty Variations for Scotch Eggs

  • Vegetarian Scotch Eggs: Replace breakfast sausage with a plant-based ground meat alternative like Beyond Meat or use a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and herbs for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap wheat flour with almond or rice flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Mix cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the sausage mixture for a fiery version, or add hot sauce to the mustard for extra heat.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Skip the breading entirely and roll the eggs in crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative that maintains the crispy exterior.

How to Serve Up Scotch Eggs for Any Meal

  • Picnic Perfect Platter: Arrange Scotch eggs on a rustic wooden board with fresh herbs, mustard, and pickled vegetables for a stunning presentation that screams gourmet gathering.
  • Brunch Breakthrough: Slice Scotch eggs in half and serve alongside crispy hash browns, roasted tomatoes, and a light arugula salad for a hearty weekend breakfast experience.
  • Pub-Style Appetizer: Pair with tangy mustard dipping sauce, crisp beer-battered onion rings, and a cold craft beer for an authentic British-inspired pub snack that's sure to impress friends.
  • Portable Protein Power: Pack whole Scotch eggs in lunch boxes or picnic baskets as a protein-rich, satisfying meal that travels well and tastes delicious at room temperature.

Tips for Keeping Scotch Eggs Fresh and Delicious

  • Store cooled Scotch eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each egg individually in plastic wrap to prevent moisture and maintain texture.
  • Place completely cooled Scotch eggs in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Wrap each egg tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place Scotch eggs on a baking sheet and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning and maintain moisture.

FAQs

  • What type of sausage works best for Scotch eggs?

Breakfast sausage is ideal due to its flavor and consistency. It provides the perfect blend of seasoning and texture to wrap around the eggs.

  • Can I make Scotch eggs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate before frying. Just bring them to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heating.

  • How do I know if the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a kitchen thermometer to confirm it’s at 325F. If you don’t have one, drop a breadcrumb into the oil – it should sizzle and float immediately without burning.

  • Are Scotch eggs typically served hot or cold?

They can be enjoyed both ways. Traditionally, they’re served warm, but many people also love them at room temperature as a picnic or party snack.

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Scotch Eggs Recipe

Scotch Eggs Recipe


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4.9 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Classic British scotch eggs feature perfectly boiled eggs wrapped in seasoned sausage meat, then breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. Rich flavors and crispy texture make this pub favorite a delightful snack you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs, for boiling
  • 1 large egg, for coating
  • 10 ounces (283 grams) uncooked breakfast sausage, casings removed
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon prepared English mustard, such as Coleman’s

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Coating and Frying:

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 6 cups (48 ounces / 1.4 liters) vegetable oil, for deep-frying

Instructions

  1. Immerse 4 large eggs in a medium saucepan filled with cold water, ensuring coverage by one inch. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 4 minutes for jammy yolks or 7 minutes for firmer yolks.
  2. Immediately transfer boiled eggs to an ice water bath, allowing complete cooling for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Finely mince fresh chives and parsley leaves while eggs are chilling.
  4. Combine herbs with breakfast sausage, English mustard, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl. Thoroughly blend ingredients and portion into 4 equal sausage balls.
  5. Prepare three separate dredging stations: first bowl with seasoned flour, second with whisked egg, third with salted panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Carefully peel cooled eggs and pat dry. Using parchment paper, flatten each sausage ball into an oval large enough to encase an egg. Dust egg with flour, center on sausage oval, and carefully wrap, sealing completely.
  7. Coat sausage-wrapped eggs sequentially through flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb stations, ensuring even coverage.
  8. Heat vegetable oil to 325°F in a large saucepan, monitoring temperature with a kitchen thermometer.
  9. Gently lower breaded eggs into hot oil, frying until sausage reaches 145°F internal temperature and exterior turns deep golden brown, approximately 4-6 minutes.
  10. Remove Scotch eggs using a spider or slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and allow brief resting before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Perfectly Jammy Eggs Master the soft-boil technique by using a timer and immediately transferring eggs to an ice bath to stop cooking, ensuring a creamy, runny yolk that adds richness to the Scotch eggs.
  • Sausage Mixture Magic Incorporate fresh herbs and spices thoroughly into the sausage to create a flavor-packed coating that complements the delicate egg interior.
  • Breading Technique Pro Gently press breadcrumbs onto the sausage-wrapped eggs to create an even, crispy exterior that provides a satisfying crunch when biting into the Scotch egg.
  • Oil Temperature Control Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature, preventing soggy or burnt coating and ensuring perfectly golden-brown Scotch eggs.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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