Over - Easy Recipe

Bring eggs to room temperature

If eggs are directly from the refrigerator, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Room-temperature eggs cook more evenly and are less likely to seize when placed in a hot pan.

Season eggs

Crack eggs into a small bowl (or crack each into separate small bowls/pouring cups if preferred). Add 1/4 tsp salt and the 1/8–1/4 tsp pepper to the eggs and gently stir once or twice with a fork to combine—this makes seasoning even but does not overwork whites.

Preheat pan

Place a nonstick or well-seasoned stainless steel skillet (8–10 inch) over medium to medium-low heat. Allow the pan to warm for 1–2 minutes so heat is even but not hot enough to smoke.

Melt butter (and oil)

Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and, if using, 1/2 teaspoon neutral oil to the pan. Swirl until butter is melted and foaming but not browned. The oil helps raise the smoke point and keeps butter from burning; omit oil for pure butter flavor.

Add eggs to pan

Pour the seasoned eggs gently into the center of the skillet. Let them sit undisturbed for 60–90 seconds to allow whites to set at the bottom. As the edges set, occasionally tilt the pan and spoon hot fat over the whites to help set the tops without overcooking the yolks.

Flip the eggs (over-easy)

When the whites are mostly set but the surface still looks slightly wet and the yolks are visibly runny, gently slide a thin spatula under each egg and flip it over in one quick, confident motion. Cook the flipped eggs for 10–20 seconds for over-easy (runny yolk with a thin cooked film on top). If you prefer slightly firmer yolks, cook 30–45 seconds (over-medium).

Finish and season

Remove eggs from the pan onto a plate. Immediately sprinkle the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of salt (or adjust to taste) and a pinch of black pepper over the eggs. Let rest for 15–30 seconds — residual heat will finish cooking slightly but yolks remain runny.

Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve with toast or warm bread. Add hot sauce or salsa at the table if desired. Enjoy immediately while yolks are warm and runny.