Easy Eggs In Purgatory (Italian Baked Eggs)

Eggs in Purgatory, or Uova in Purgatoria in Italian, is an easy dish that brings together the comforting flavors of baked eggs in a rich tomato sauce with a generous sprinkle of gooey cheese on top. Baked to perfection in individual ramekins, these eggs are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, making them ideal for leisurely weekend breakfasts or festive holiday brunches.

What Are Eggs In Purgatory? 

Eggs in Purgatory, also known as Uova in Purgatoria or Uova All’inferno, are an Italian baked eggs dish that originated in Naples, Italy. 

The dish goes by many different names and can be found with different flavors and ingredients. However, it always consists of eggs cooked in a savory (often spicy) tomato sauce. 

They’re a traditional “poor man’s meal” as they use simple, staple ingredients to create a recipe that is satisfying and full of bold flavors. 

Is It The Same as Shakshuka? 

Shakshuka and Eggs in Purgatory are extremely similar, but they aren’t quite the same. 

The main difference is that Shakshuka is a Middle Eastern dish and uses additional spices and ingredients that often include items like cumin, sweet paprika, and peppers.

Meanwhile, Eggs in Purgatory recipes are Italian and contain fewer ingredients and often more cheese.  

Why Are They Called Eggs In Purgatory? 

There are many theories as to how the dish received its name, and the exact answer is unclear. 

Some say it is meant to honor the Cult of the Souls of Purgatory. Others say that the dish represents Dante’s climb up the Mountain of Purgatory in Dante Alighieri’s Purgatorio. 

No matter the theory, there always seems to be a religious association. 

What’s In Italian Baked Eggs

Before we begin, it’s important to note that this easy Eggs in Purgatory recipe is not authentic. However, it represents the essence of the traditional dish with a few shortcuts. 

• Marinara Sauce – We use this instead of making our own tomato sauce to save tons of time without sacrificing flavor. 
• Eggs – The star of the show! 
• Heavy Cream – Just a drizzle helps enhance the richness of the marinara sauce. 
• Cheese – A combination of feta and Mozzarella bakes to gooey, golden perfection. 
• Salt and Pepper – Use as little or as much as you’d like. 
• Basil Leaves – A sprinkle on top helps lighten the dish, adding a refreshing, herbaceous taste. 

Swaps, Substitutions, and Variations 

Because Italian baked eggs are so simple, they’re very forgiving and allow a lot of room to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. For example, some great ways to switch this recipe up include: 

• Veggies. Add chopped veggies like onions, peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, eggplant, spinach, kale, and olives (even though, they’re technically a fruit) for extra volume, nutrients, and fiber. 
• Seasonings. Boost the flavor even more with herbs and spices like dried oregano, fresh parsley, fresh marjoram, and Italian seasoning. 
• Pesto. Just a small dollop added at the end of cooking packs in tons of savory, herbaceous, cheesy flavor. 
• Anchovies. Found in some traditional recipes, anchovies can add an extra savory element and a boost of protein if you like the taste. 
• Breadcrumbs. Not exactly authentic, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top crisps up and adds a satisfying, crisp texture. Especially, if you put them under the broiler for a minute or two! 
• Lemon. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice might sound strange, but it provides the perfect amount of freshness to lighten the heavy fats and savory herbs in the dish. 

Eggs In Purgatory Made The Easy Way 

Unlike classic Italian baked eggs that are made in a skillet, this version comes together in ramekins. As a result, it’s perfect for a single-serving meal or to feed a crowd with no fuss!  

1. Divide. Split the marinara evenly between two ramekins, spreading it out in an even layer on the bottom. 
2. Add the Remaining Ingredients. Crack the eggs on top of the marinara. Then, drizzle heavy cream on top followed by the feta, Mozzarella, salt, and pepper. 
3. Bake. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet, and transfer them to the oven to cook just until the whites are set. 
4. Garnish. Set the dishes aside to cool slightly. Then, sprinkle basil leaves on top. 
5. Enjoy! Serve your Eggs in Purgatory warm with the renaming marinara sauce on the side. 

Tips for Success

• Grease the Ramekins. Before you begin, use oil, butter, or cooking spray to coat your ramekins to prevent the sauce from burning and the ingredients from sticking to the dish. 
• Don’t Crack the Yolks. Be super careful not to crack your egg yolks as you work. Otherwise, they’ll cook, and the ingredients will run together which is not what you want. 
• Avoid Overbaking. Eggs in Purgatory cook quickly. So, be sure to keep a close eye on your oven, and remove the ramekins as soon as the whites are set. Any longer, and the yolk will cook through. 

Serving Suggestions 

This Eggs in Purgatory recipe works great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. However, no matter what time of the day you serve it, thick, crusty bread is always a must (at least it is at our house!).

We love to dip pita, focaccia, or thick Italian bread into the runny yolks and sauce. Then, for a full spread, try pairing your eggs with sides and appetizers like pesto pasta salad, Greek salad,  roasted peppers with whipped feta, and Parmesan potatoes. 

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time? 

While you can prep the marinara sauce ahead of time to save some hassle, it’s best to bake the Eggs in Purgatory just before serving. The eggs won’t hold up well if reheated, losing their ideal texture. But hey, the good news is this dish comes together so fast, you’ll have steaming, cheesy goodness on the table in no time!

More Egg-Filled Breakfast Recipes 

If you enjoyed this easy Eggs in Purgatory recipe, you won’t want to miss out on the egg dishes below! 

• Turkish Poached Eggs with Cottage Cheese 
• Greek Breakfast Casserole 
• Easy Oven Baked Eggs 
• Oven Baked Shakshuka