Warm, spiced, and full of flavor — this classic Shakshuka is the perfect one-pan dish for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner. Eggs poached in a rich, smoky tomato sauce with bell peppers and spices, finished with melty mozzarella and creamy feta. So comforting!
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp butter
- 4–5 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (to taste)
- 3–4 large eggs
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled
Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste (for deeper flavor)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan.
- Place the diced onion in the center of the pan and arrange the sliced red bell pepper around the edges.
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
- Continue cooking uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and juicy.
- Remove the tomato skins (they should peel off easily at this point).
- Mash the tomatoes directly in the pan using a fork or potato masher until you get a chunky sauce.
- Add all the seasonings (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, chili flakes, black pepper, and salt). Mix well. (Optional: Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste for richer color and taste.)
- Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into them.
- Cover the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your liking (runny or fully cooked yolks).
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese.
Serve hot with crusty bread, pita, or toasted baguette for dipping!
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Canned tomatoes work in a pinch.
- Adjust the chili flakes to control the heat level.
- For extra smokiness, add ½ tsp smoked paprika.
- Don’t skip the feta — it adds a beautiful creamy, tangy contrast.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and just add eggs when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic style with warm pita bread
- With avocado slices on the side
- Top with olives or fresh herbs
Your Turn: Shakshuka is one of those magical one-pan meals! 🍳 Have you tried making it before? Let me know how this version turns out for you.
Would you like a spicier version, green shakshuka, one-pan with sausage, or an oven-baked method? Just tell me! 🔥

