There is something incredibly satisfying about biting into a savory, high-protein breakfast that keeps you full until lunch. That is exactly why I am obsessed with these Sausage Scotch Eggs. While traditional versions are often deep-fried and breaded, this recipe lightens things up by baking them to perfection. The secret weapon here is the homemade sugar-free gingerbread spice mix—it adds a warmth to the pork that you didn’t know you needed! Whether you are meal-prepping for a busy week or hosting a brunch, this dish is a tasty, healthy, and fast solution.
Ingredients
- Meat Base: 1 lb (454g) of ground pork
- Eggs: 6 medium-sized eggs
- Seasoning: 1 tsp (6g) salt
- Seasoning: 1 tsp (2.3g) black pepper
- Homemade Gingerbread Spice Mix: 1 tbsp (approx. 8g) total mix, consisting of:
- 0.4 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 0.2 tbsp ground ginger
- 0.2 tbsp ground cloves
- 0.05 tbsp ground allspice
- 0.05 tbsp ground star anise
- 0.05 tbsp ground nutmeg
- 0.05 tbsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the Eggs: Place the 6 medium eggs in a pot of water, bring to a boil, and cook to your desired firmness (soft or hard). Once cooked, transfer them immediately to an ice bath or cold water and let them cool for approximately 10 minutes before peeling carefully.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Meat: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 lb (454g) of ground pork, 1 tbsp of the gingerbread spice mix, 1 tsp (6g) of salt, and 1 tsp (2.3g) of black pepper until the spices are thoroughly incorporated.
- Portion the Pork: For every egg, measure out exactly 0.33 cups (approx. 2.6 oz or 75g) of the seasoned ground pork mixture to ensure even cooking.
- Form Patties: Take each portioned lump of pork and flatten it between your hands to make thin patties, similar in shape to hamburger patties but wide enough to encase an egg.
- Assemble: Place a peeled boiled egg in the center of each pork patty.
- Wrap the Eggs: Gently fold the pork patty up and around the egg, molding it with your hands until the egg is fully encased and the pork layer is even on all sides.
- Bake: Place the prepared Sausage Scotch Eggs onto the baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and golden brown.
Nutritional Information
Estimates per serving (1 Scotch Egg). Values may vary based on the specific fat content of your ground pork.
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Total Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 0g
Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Scotch Eggs
- Wet Your Hands: Ground pork can be very sticky. Keep a small bowl of cold water nearby and wet your hands before flattening the meat patties. This prevents the meat from sticking to your palms and ensures a smooth, even seal around the egg.
- Don’t Overcook the Boil: Since the eggs will bake in the oven for another 15-20 minutes, boil them for slightly less time than usual (around 5-6 minutes) if you prefer a jammy or soft yolk. If you boil them hard completely, the yolk might become dry after baking.
- Test Your Seasoning: Before wrapping all your eggs, pinch off a tiny piece of the spiced pork mixture and fry it quickly in a pan. Taste it to ensure the salt and gingerbread spice levels are to your liking. It is impossible to adjust the seasoning once the eggs are wrapped!
- The Ice Bath is Crucial: Do not skip the 10-minute cool-down in ice water. This “shocks” the egg, causing the white to contract slightly from the shell, making peeling effortless and keeping the egg surface smooth for wrapping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these Sausage Scotch Eggs in an air fryer? Yes, absolutely! Air fryers are excellent for this recipe. Place the wrapped eggs in the air fryer basket (ensure they are not touching) and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. This often results in a slightly crispier exterior compared to the oven method.
Are these Scotch eggs gluten-free and keto-friendly? Yes. Traditional Scotch eggs use flour and breadcrumbs, but this recipe relies entirely on the meat to encase the egg. This makes them naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and perfectly suitable for Keto or Paleo diets.
How long do baked Scotch eggs last in the fridge? These are excellent for meal prep. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can eat them cold, or reheat them gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Why did my sausage meat crack while baking? Cracking usually happens if the meat layer is uneven (thick in some spots, thin in others) or if the egg wasn’t fully dried before wrapping. Ensure the boiled egg is dry, and try to mold the meat as evenly as possible to ensure uniform cooking.
Conclusion
I hope you give these Sausage Scotch Eggs a try for your next brunch or meal prep session! They truly are one of the best Keto Breakfast Recipes out there, proving that Healthy Meal Prep Ideas don’t have to be boring. Since they are Gluten-Free Scotch Eggs, they are a safe and delicious option for almost everyone at the table. If you are looking for a High Protein Breakfast that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee, this Gingerbread Spiced Pork twist is a game changer. Let me know in the comments if you baked them or tried the Air Fryer method!
