Tomato Poached Eggs Skillet

There is something timeless and comforting about eggs simmered gently in a rich tomato sauce. This dish, commonly known in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern kitchens as a tomato-poached egg skillet or Shakshuka, brings together simple ingredients — ripe tomatoes, olive oil, eggs, and fragrant herbs — until they transform into a hearty, homey, and satisfying meal. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this skillet is always a warm welcome to the table. The version below stays true to the classic approach while offering extra depth through slow-simmered tomatoes and subtle seasoning.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce

3 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced (optional but recommended)
5–6 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 large can of crushed tomatoes)
2 tbsp tomato paste
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
Salt to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

For the Eggs

4 large eggs
A pinch of salt and pepper
Optional: small pieces of feta or mozzarella, as shown in the photo

For Serving

Fresh basil leaves
Crusty bread
Toast, pita, or warm baguette
Optional: thin pasta added on the side (as seen in the image)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft, translucent, and slightly golden — about 5 minutes. This slow sautéing creates the sweet aromatic base that the entire sauce depends on.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic, as this would make the sauce bitter.

2. Add the Vegetables

Add the diced red bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the pepper begins to soften. The peppers add a slight sweetness and a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce.

3. Build the Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for 1–2 minutes. Cooking tomato paste before adding liquid intensifies its flavor and gives your sauce that rich restaurant-style touch.

Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) into the skillet. Mix well and season with paprika, cumin, black pepper, chili flakes, sugar, and salt.

Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for 12–15 minutes, uncovered. The longer the tomatoes cook, the richer and thicker the sauce becomes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If the sauce gets too thick, add 2–3 tablespoons of water.

4. Make Wells and Add the Eggs

Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well combined, use a spoon to create four small wells in the tomato mixture. Crack a fresh egg into each well.

Season the top of each egg with a tiny pinch of salt and pepper.

If you like cheese — and the picture shows a few creamy white pieces — add small chunks of feta or mozzarella around the eggs. This melts and blends into the sauce beautifully.

5. Poach the Eggs

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the eggs to cook gently.

For runny yolks: 5–6 minutes
For medium yolks: 7–8 minutes
For firm yolks: 10 minutes

Take care not to overcook the sauce; it should stay moist and slightly bubbling around the edges.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top. The herbs brighten the entire dish and add a fresh aroma.

Serve directly in the skillet alongside warm bread, crusty toast, or pita for dipping. The bread soaks up the rich tomato sauce and soft egg yolks — the most satisfying part of the meal.

Serving Tips

Add a drizzle of olive oil over the finished dish for extra richness.
Serve with a side salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil.
This dish pairs perfectly with mint tea or a simple lemon drink.
If you want it heartier, serve with cooked spaghetti on the side, inspired by the image.

Final Thought

This tomato-poached egg skillet is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. It’s hearty, colorful, flavorful, and easy enough for a weekday meal — yet impressive enough to serve guests. The combination of creamy eggs and rich tomato sauce never fails to bring warmth to the table. Enjoy it fresh, enjoy it slowly, and enjoy the comfort it brings.

Bon Appétit!

Tomato Poached Eggs Skillet