Creamy scrambled eggs and smooth ricotta come together perfectly in this Egg and Ricotta Toast, ready for your busy mornings in just 10 minutes. Fold the ricotta gently into warm scrambled eggs before spreading over toasted bread for an extra-rich finish. This protein-packed meal is a satisfying breakfast that feels luxurious but comes together in no time, making busy weekdays a little more delicious.
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Ingredients for Egg Ricotta Toast
For the toast
- Sourdough Bread – Thick slices work best for holding all the goodness.
For the ricotta spread
- Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – Creamy and luxurious, this is the star of the show.
- Lemon Zest – Adds a bright, citrusy pop to balance the richness.
- Fresh Chives – Chop them up for a subtle oniony flavor and a pop of green.
For the eggs
- Large Eggs – Go for eggs with those gorgeous, runny yolks.
- Olive Oil – Just a drizzle to fry the eggs to perfection.
- Kosher Salt – A pinch to season the eggs just right.
- Black Pepper – Freshly cracked is always best for maximum flavor.
For the garnish
- Red Pepper Flakes – A light sprinkle adds a hint of heat and color.
- Fresh Chives – A little extra for that finishing touch.
Cook Time for Ricotta Toast Bread
I love how quickly this cozy breakfast comes together, giving you more time to savor that first cup of coffee. The total time is just a quarter of an hour from start to finish.
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
It’s a perfect recipe to have in your back pocket for those mornings when you need something satisfying fast, much like my favorite avocado toast with a perfectly poached egg.
How to Make Easy Egg Ricotta Toast
These simple steps guide you to the best savory breakfast toast with chives. Get ready for a meal that feels special but is wonderfully simple.
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Spread
In a small mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, most of the chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently until just blended; this whipped ricotta cheese on bread is the creamy foundation of our dish.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully crack the eggs into the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are gloriously runny. This pan-fried egg with lemon zest waiting in the ricotta will be a perfect match.
Step 3: Toast the Bread
While the eggs cook, toast your slices of sourdough until golden and crisp. A sturdy base like this is key for holding all the toppings without getting soggy.
Step 4: Assemble the Toast
Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture onto each warm toast slice. Achieving this creamy ricotta on toasted sourdough is the secret to a luxurious texture in every bite.
Step 5: Top and Garnish
Gently place one cooked egg on top of each toast. Finish with the remaining chives and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth. With these soft scrambled eggs with pepper flakes on top, your Egg Ricotta Toast is ready to serve immediately!
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few secrets to making this recipe truly shine. Here are my favorite ways to tweak this classic Egg and Ricotta Toast to make it your own.
- Flavor Swap: For a different herbaceous note, try swapping the chives with fresh dill or basil. It completely transforms the vibe of the dish!
- Diet Tweak: To lighten it up, use a low-fat ricotta and a whole-grain bread. It remains a wonderfully satisfying and healthy option.
- Prep Fix: If you want an even creamier texture, whip the ricotta with a fork for a full minute before adding the other ingredients. It makes it incredibly smooth. You can use this same technique for other dishes, like my favorite spinach and ricotta manicotti filling.
- Storage Tip: This toast is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the separate components for a day. Keep the ricotta spread in an airtight container and reheat the egg gently in a skillet. The toast should always be made fresh. For more ideas on using up leftover ricotta, check out my simple lemony ricotta cake.
Egg Ricotta Toast
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, 3 tablespoons of the chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently until just blended and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully crack the eggs into the skillet and season them with the remaining salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set and the yolks are still soft and runny.
- While the eggs cook, toast the sourdough slices until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Spread a generous 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture evenly onto each piece of warm toast.
- Gently place one cooked egg on top of each ricotta-covered toast slice. Garnish with the remaining chopped chives and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving immediately.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
This Egg Ricotta Toast isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that will keep you satisfied all morning long. I love knowing that I’m starting my day with a meal that fuels both my body and my cravings.
With protein-rich eggs and creamy ricotta, this breakfast provides sustained energy without the mid-morning crash. The combination creates a complete protein profile that’s perfect for busy days when you need lasting fuel.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes this ricotta toast breakfast so nourishing:
| Nutrient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Protein | Supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer |
| Calcium | From the ricotta, great for bone health |
| Healthy Fats | Provides sustained energy and helps absorb nutrients |
For those watching their intake, this easy egg ricotta toast can easily be adapted. I often use whole grain bread and measure my ricotta for portion control. It’s similar to the approach I take with my cottage cheese egg bites, focusing on protein-packed breakfasts that don’t compromise on flavor.
According to nutrition experts, combining protein with complex carbohydrates like sourdough creates a balanced meal that supports stable energy levels throughout the morning. This makes our Egg Ricotta Toast not just tasty but truly satisfying.
If you’re looking for other nutritious breakfast options, my Greek tomato eggs offer another delicious way to start your day with Mediterranean flavors and wholesome ingredients.
A Lighter Version of Egg Ricotta Toast
Sometimes I want all the comfort of this breakfast with a lighter touch. Over the years, I’ve perfected a few simple swaps that make this dish feel indulgent while keeping it health-conscious.
For a lower-calorie version, try using part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk. The texture remains wonderfully creamy while reducing the fat content. I also love using whole grain bread instead of sourdough for extra fiber and nutrients.
Here are my favorite ways to lighten up this recipe without losing any flavor:
- Use part-skim ricotta cheese—it still provides that luxurious texture
- Opt for whole grain or seeded bread for added fiber
- Reduce the olive oil to just a light mist using a spray bottle
- Add extra fresh herbs like chives or basil for flavor without calories
These small changes create a breakfast that feels just as special but aligns with healthier eating goals. It reminds me of how I adapt my cottage cheese recipes to be both nutritious and delicious.
For another protein-packed breakfast idea that’s naturally lighter, try my cottage cheese strawberry mousse. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want something sweet but still healthy.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I’ve learned that good food should be accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary needs. Over coffee with friends and family, I’ve picked up so many clever ways to adapt recipes like this Egg Ricotta Toast to various eating preferences.
For those watching their sugar intake or managing diabetic needs, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable. The natural richness of eggs and ricotta means you don’t need added sugars to create a satisfying meal. I often recommend using whole grain bread for better glycemic control and measuring portions to maintain balance.
Here are my favorite diabetic-friendly tweaks for this breakfast:
- Choose whole grain or seeded bread with higher fiber content
- Focus on portion control—one slice with a single egg is perfectly satisfying
- Add plenty of fresh herbs and spices instead of relying on salt or sugar for flavor
For those avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without actual cheese. And if you’re gluten-free, your favorite gluten-free bread works beautifully here too. The key is keeping that perfect balance of creamy ricotta and perfectly cooked eggs that make this toast so special.
How to Serve Egg Ricotta Toast
I’ll never forget the first time I served this Egg Ricotta Toast to my niece during her visit last summer. She’d just arrived after a long flight, tired and hungry, and I wanted to make something that felt both comforting and special.
As she took that first bite, her eyes lit up exactly like my grandmother’s used to when she discovered a new favorite combination. There’s something magical about how the creamy ricotta, runny egg yolk, and crisp toast come together that feels like a hug in breakfast form.
For a complete brunch spread, I love pairing this toast with fresh seasonal fruit and a good cup of coffee. The bright acidity of berries or citrus cuts through the richness perfectly. If I’m serving guests, I’ll often add a simple side salad with peppery greens.
This Egg Ricotta Brunch becomes even more special when served alongside other favorites like my Italian grilled cheese for a savory spread that satisfies everyone at the table.
For smaller appetites or as part of a larger meal, you can cut the toast into quarters and serve as finger food. It’s perfect for weekend gatherings where everyone wants to try a little bit of everything. I sometimes serve it alongside my cottage cheese banana bread for a sweet and savory combination that always disappears quickly.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made plenty of mistakes with this Egg Ricotta Toast over the years, especially when I first started experimenting with the recipe. Learning from those kitchen mishaps has helped me perfect this breakfast, and I’m happy to share what I’ve discovered so you can avoid the same pitfalls.
The most common mistake is overheating the ricotta, which causes it to become grainy instead of staying beautifully smooth. I always take my ricotta straight from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature naturally while I prepare the other ingredients.
Here are the key mistakes to watch for with your ricotta toast breakfast:
- Over-toasting the bread – it should be golden, not dark brown or burnt
- Using cold ricotta straight from the fridge – it won’t spread smoothly
- Overcooking the eggs – they should be softly set, not rubbery
- Skipping the seasoning – both the ricotta and eggs need proper seasoning
Another lesson I learned the hard way: don’t skimp on quality ingredients. Fresh, good-quality ricotta makes all the difference in this easy Egg Ricotta Toast. It reminds me of when I make my ricotta cannoli filling – the better the ricotta, the better the result.
For perfect eggs every time, I’ve adopted a professional scrambled egg technique that ensures they stay tender and creamy. It’s worth taking that extra care for truly exceptional results.
Remember that even small adjustments can transform this dish, much like how I approach my cottage cheese cauliflower thins – patience and attention to detail create the best outcomes.
How to Store Egg Ricotta Toast
My neighbor Margaret taught me the importance of proper storage when she brought over the most delicious leftover breakfast toast one morning. She’d perfected storing her ricotta toast so it tasted nearly as good reheated as it did fresh from the pan.
For short-term storage, I place any leftover Egg Ricotta Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The key is storing the components separately whenever possible – keep the toasted bread, ricotta spread, and cooked eggs in different containers.
Here’s my system for storing and enjoying leftovers:
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated (assembled) | Up to 1 day – best eaten immediately |
| Refrigerated (components separate) | 2-3 days for optimal freshness |
| Freezer (bread only) | Up to 3 months – avoid freezing ricotta or eggs |
When reheating, I gently warm the toast in a toaster oven or regular oven to maintain that perfect crispness. The microwave can make the bread soggy, which defeats the purpose of that wonderful textured contrast. This approach works well for many of my recipes, including my cottage cheese bread, which also benefits from proper storage techniques.
If you’re making components ahead for your sourdough ricotta toast, you can prepare the seasoned ricotta mixture up to two days in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before using. For more make-ahead breakfast ideas, check out my cottage cheese bagels – they’re perfect for busy mornings.
Try This Egg Ricotta Toast Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time I served this breakfast to my book club friends – they couldn’t believe something so simple could taste so extraordinary. Now it’s become our traditional meeting breakfast, and several friends have made it part of their own family routines.
That’s the beautiful thing about this Egg Ricotta Toast recipe – it becomes part of your story once you make it your own. Whether you stick to the basic version or add your personal touches, it’s a breakfast that feels both special and completely approachable.
I’d love to hear how your ricotta toast breakfast turns out and what variations you discover. Some of my favorite reader adaptations have inspired new recipes in my kitchen, including my avocado toast with poached egg, which came from a reader’s brilliant suggestion.
If you enjoy this combination of creamy cheese and perfectly cooked eggs, you might also love my spinach ricotta manicotti for dinner or my ricotta cake for something sweet. The versatility of ricotta never ceases to amaze me.
For another quick breakfast option that’s equally satisfying, try my Greek tomato eggs – they bring Mediterranean sunshine to your morning routine. Whatever you choose to make, I hope it brings as much joy to your kitchen as this Egg Ricotta Toast has brought to mine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ricotta and eggs go together?
Absolutely! Ricotta and eggs are a classic combination that work beautifully together. The creamy, slightly sweet ricotta complements the richness of eggs perfectly, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s both satisfying and delicious. This pairing is common in many Italian dishes and makes for an excellent breakfast or brunch option.
Why mix an egg with ricotta?
Mixing egg with ricotta creates a richer, creamier texture and adds extra protein to your meal. The combination helps bind ingredients together while providing a more substantial breakfast that keeps you full longer. It’s a technique I also use in my ricotta cannoli filling for improved texture and stability.
Can you put ricotta on toast?
Yes, ricotta on toast is absolutely wonderful! The creamy texture of ricotta spreads beautifully on toasted bread, creating a perfect base for other toppings like eggs, honey, or fresh fruit. It’s a versatile alternative to butter or cream cheese that adds protein and a lovely mild flavor to your breakfast toast.
Is ricotta cheese on toast healthy?
Ricotta cheese on toast can be quite healthy when prepared thoughtfully. Ricotta provides protein, calcium, and healthy fats, while whole grain toast adds fiber. Choosing part-skim ricotta and controlling portion sizes makes this a nutritious breakfast option that provides sustained energy without excessive calories.
More Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love
If this Egg Ricotta Toast sparked your morning inspiration, here are more recipes that turn simple ingredients into something special.
Each one comes from my kitchen to yours, tested with love and shared with the hope they’ll become part of your family traditions too.
- Cottage Cheese Egg Bites – Protein-packed mini frittatas that bake up light, fluffy, and perfect for grab-and-go mornings.
- Avocado Toast with Poached Egg – Creamy avocado and runny yolk create breakfast magic on crispy toasted bread.
- Greek Tomato Eggs – Sunny Mediterranean flavors with ripe tomatoes, herbs, and softly cooked eggs.
- Italian Grilled Cheese – A grown-up twist on the classic with ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- Cottage Cheese Strawberry Mousse – Light, creamy, and sweet without guilt, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Cottage Cheese Banana Bread – Moist, tender bread with extra protein that makes every slice more satisfying.
