The Perfect Fried Egg: Sunny-Side Up, Over Easy, or Over Hard

Unlock fried egg perfection! Sunny-side up, over easy, or over hard - learn my diner-style techniques for consistently perfect eggs, every time. It's easier than you think!

May 19, 2025
By Zelia Thorne.

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Alright, let's talk fried egg , because honestly, who doesn't love a good fried egg ? Is there anything more satisfying than that perfect runny yolk oozing out?

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wonder how diner chefs get their fried eggs just right every single time? i’m gonna let you in on a little secret.

It's all about technique, baby. we're talking ultimate breakfast perfection.

Brief Overview

The fried egg transcends cultures. think of the british fry-up! its humble origins belie its versatility. it's the meal of the day .

My version is easy, like seriously easy, clocking in at about 5 minutes from start to finish. it is a single serving, perfect for breakfast time .

Main Benefits

Honestly, eggs are packed with protein. the breakfast of champions can be created in under 5 minutes! what makes this recipe special? i’m going to show you all the techniques.

You will learn to make perfect fried eggs.

The Perfect Fried Egg: Sunny-Side Up, Over Easy, or Over Hard Recipe Card

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Preparation time:1 Mins

Cooking time:5 Mins

Servings:1 serving

Ingredients:

• 1 large egg (US Large, approx. 50g/1.8oz)
• 1 teaspoon butter or 1 tablespoon olive oil or 1 tablespoon bacon fat (5 ml / 15 ml / 15 ml)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Place the non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter/oil/bacon fat and let it melt and coat the pan evenly. Make sure the pan is hot enough, but not smoking.
• Gently crack the egg into a small bowl. This prevents shell fragments and allows for controlled placement in the pan.
• Gently slide the egg from the bowl into the heated pan.
• For sunny-side up: Cook undisturbed until the whites are set, but the yolk is still runny. Cover the pan with a lid for the last minute to help the whites set evenly.
• For over easy: Cook as above, then gently flip the egg with the spatula and cook for 10-15 seconds, until the white is set but the yolk is still runny.
• For over medium: Flip and cook for 30-45 seconds, the yolk will be thicker but not fully set.
• For over hard: Flip and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the yolk is completely set.
• Remove the fried egg from the pan with the spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Crispy Feta and Fried Egg Magic

So, I was experimenting in the kitchen last week. Crispy feta and fried eggs ? Oh my gosh! The salty feta, the runny yolk... a match made in heaven, trust me.

Frying an egg is simple. but mastering it? that's where the fun begins. the goal is a perfectly cooked white.

You also want a yolk that's still gloriously runny (unless you’re on team “over hard,” then no judgment!).

Think about brunch ideas . maybe you are planning a lazy sunday? imagine this with a side of crispy bacon... you'll elevate that bacon and egg brunch! breakfast brunch recipes are awesome.

Now, let's get started and try this recipe, shall we? let's see what makes these simple egg dishes so special.

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to nail this fried egg recipe. Honestly, it's pretty straightforward. We want Breakfast of Champions here.

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Arsenal

This isn't rocket science. But quality ingredients make a difference. You know?

Main Ingredients: The Egg-sentials

• 1 large egg. (About 50g ).
• 1 teaspoon butter, or 1 tablespoon olive oil, or 1 tablespoon bacon fat. (That's 5ml or 15ml ).

For eggs, freshness matters. aim for eggs that are no more than a week old. the yolks should be perky.

The whites thick, you know what i mean. old eggs spread more. that's not the end of the world, but fresh is best for presentation.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up

Don't underestimate salt and pepper. They're your best friends. A pinch of sea salt is divine. Freshly cracked black pepper gives it a kick.

For flavor enhancers, think garlic powder or smoked paprika. They add a subtle depth. If you're feeling fancy, try a dash of hot sauce after cooking. Oh my gosh, it's good.

Quick substitutions? Garlic salt for salt and garlic powder. Red pepper flakes instead of black pepper for heat. Honestly, whatever floats your boat.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• An 8-10 inch non-stick skillet. ( 20-25 cm )
• A spatula.

You don't need fancy stuff. a decent non-stick pan is key. this stops sticking. i've used cast iron. it works.

But the non-stick life is way easier. i promise. no need for specialized tools. a basic spatula does the trick.

Let's make some amazing Egg Dishes for Breakfast Time . Brunch Ideas for your next Meal of the Day . Crispy Feta? that can come later. First, Fried Eggs .

Alright, let's talk fried eggs . forget those sad, rubbery things you see sometimes. we're going for breakfast of champions here! the perfect fried egg is an art, not a science.

But i’ll give you the secrets to master it. seriously, if you can nail this, the ultimate breakfast is yours for the taking!

Cracking the Code: Prep Steps

First, the mise en place . fancy, right? basically, just get organized. you need 1 large egg , 1 teaspoon butter , or maybe 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Salt and pepper too! also, a good non-stick pan is key. i like a 8-10 inch one. it makes all the difference.

Time-saving? crack your egg into a small bowl before you start. trust me. it stops shell bits from getting in your masterpiece.

You know what i mean? this will give you perfect egg dishes every time.

Safety? Don't be an idiot. Hot pans are hot! Also, wash your hands before you touch anything. Good Breakfast Time hygiene is a must!

The Main Event: Step-by-Step

1. Heat your pan over medium-low heat. Don't crank it up! We're not making hockey pucks here.
2. Add your fat. Let the butter melt. Let the oil get shimmery. Don't let it smoke!
3. Slide that egg into the pan. Gently!
4. Now, decide your fate:
   • Sunny-Side Up : Cook until the whites are set. About 2- 3 minutes . Whites set, yolk runny! Cover for the last minute if needed.
   • Over Easy : Cook like sunny-side up, then flip carefully . Cook 10-15 seconds more.
   • Over Medium : Flip and cook 30-45 seconds until the yolk is just a bit runny.
   • Over Hard : Flip and cook 1- 2 minutes . Solid yolk for those who fear the runny.
5. Salt and pepper. Boom! Meal Of The Day !

The visual cue is the whites being cooked. They should not be clear anymore. A runny yolk is your friend. Unless you're going over hard!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Egg Game

Here's a tip. a little water in the pan then cover it. it steams those whites perfectly. another tip, always use fresh eggs! they cook better.

The fresher the egg, the prettier the fried eggs .

Common mistake? Overcooking! Don't do it! And don’t use high heat. Low and slow, remember? No one likes rubbery eggs.

Make-ahead? Nope. This is a now food. Unless you like cold fried eggs . I don’t.

Hey, why not use Crispy Feta for a different touch? Also, a Breakfast Brunch Recipes would be amazing!

I hope these Brunch Ideas have helped you to see the light!

Honestly, the fried egg is the unsung hero of the kitchen. it elevates everything! i mean, who doesn't love a fried egg on a burger? so, go forth and fry! let your fried eggs shine.

You got this!

Alright, let's talk Recipe Notes for the Ultimate Breakfast superstar: the humble Fried Eggs . Seriously, who doesn't love a perfectly cooked Fried Egg ? It's the Breakfast Of Champions , you know?

Serving Your Fried Egg Like a Pro

Okay, so you've nailed the Fried Eggs . Now, how do you make them look amazing ? Presentation matters, people!

Plating Like a Boss

Honestly, even a simple fried egg can look gourmet. think about it: a slice of toasted sourdough, a smear of avocado, and bam! fried egg on top.

A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning? chefs kiss. for the breakfast brunch recipes , elevate the meal of the day , or the brunch ideas , add a side of crispy bacon or sausage.

Don't forget a vibrant garnish like chopped chives or parsley.

Drinks and Sides, Y'all

This is the fun part! crispy feta cheese goes so great as a side. coffee is a must, obviously. but, have you ever tried a mimosa with your fried egg ? game changer.

Orange juice is classic. and honestly, a side of fresh fruit never hurts.

Leftover Love: Storage Tips

Let's be real, sometimes you make too many Fried Eggs . It happens!

Keeping It Cool

If you have leftover Fried Eggs , pop them in an airtight container and into the fridge. They're good for about two days.

Freezing? Maybe Not

Freezing Fried Eggs isn't ideal. The texture gets weird, honestly. But, if you have to, freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

Reheating 101

The best way to reheat fried eggs is in a non-stick pan over low heat. a microwave can work in a pinch, but be careful not to overcook them.

A splash of water in the pan can help keep them moist.

Remixing the Classics: Variations

Want to shake things up? I've got you!

Dietary Tweaks

Need a low-fat option? Use cooking spray instead of butter. Easy peasy! Vegan? Tofu scramble is your friend.

Seasonal Swaps

In the summer, top your Fried Egg with fresh salsa or grilled corn. In the fall, think about adding roasted butternut squash or sauteed mushrooms. You know? Whatever's in season!

Nutrition Nuggets: Quick Facts

Okay, let's get real about the good stuff.

Basic Breakdown

A Fried Egg is a good source of protein and healthy fats. They also have vitamins and minerals, like choline and vitamin D.

Health Perks

Protein helps you stay full, and choline is great for brain health. Who knew Breakfast Time could be so good for you?

Seriously, Fried Eggs are the MVP of breakfast. Master the technique, get creative with your toppings, and enjoy!